Fort Tigné, Late 18th-century polygonal fort in Sliema, Malta
Fort Tigné is a diamond-shaped fortification positioned at Tigné Point in Sliema, designed specifically to defend the entrance to Marsamxett Harbour. The structure features thick defensive walls, deep ditches, and positioned gun emplacements that allow clear views across the water.
Built between 1793 and 1795 by the Order of Saint John, the fort represented cutting-edge defensive design at the time of its completion. French forces attacked Malta in 1798 shortly after it was finished, and British troops eventually took control of the island.
The fort represents early polygonal military architecture and stands as a testament to Malta's defensive heritage through three different ruling periods.
The fort sits at the end of a narrow peninsula surrounded by water on two sides, making it visually distinctive and easy to locate. Access is typically arranged through local heritage groups or special public opening events rather than regular visitor hours.
The structure incorporates the Lunette d'Arçon system, a French military innovation that Malta's builders adopted and refined for this location. This blend of French insights with the Order's own engineering expertise made the fort an early testing ground for new approaches to fortress design.
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