Fort Mellieħa, Military fortification in Mellieħa, Malta
Fort Mellieħa is a military fortification built on Mellieħa Hill, featuring a perimeter wall and a network of underground shelters, kitchens, and sleeping quarters. The complex also includes a dedicated campsite area designed to accommodate various activities and gatherings.
British forces built this fortification during the 1940s as a civil defense depot and observation post for World War II operations. After the war, the structure was repurposed for civilian use until the Mellieħa Scout Group took over its management in 1991.
The fort functions as the main base for the Mellieħa Scout Group, where young people gather to learn practical skills and outdoor traditions. The scouts have shaped local community life, making this place a hub for youth activities in the area.
The complex sits on a hilltop with good walking paths and access to the main structures is straightforward, though you should be prepared for uneven ground. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to explore, as the sun is less intense and visibility is better.
The fort was repurposed as the largest scout headquarters in Malta, with underground chambers and tunnels originally built for military purposes now serving youth activities. These subterranean spaces remain remarkably intact, offering a rare look at how wartime structures were transformed into community gathering places.
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