Għargħar Battery, Artillery battery in San Ġwann, Malta
Għargħar Battery is an artillery fortification in San Ġwann featuring a semi-circular gun platform with six embrasures positioned in its masonry parapets. The underground casemate vault beneath the structure could accommodate 338 garrison members operating the installation.
The fortification was built in 1798 during the French blockade of Malta and received five 18-pounder cannons transferred from Mistra Battery. It became crucial to the island's defense in the years that followed.
This fortification marks where the British flag was first raised in Malta, symbolizing the transition to British military rule on the island. The moment carried deep significance for Malta's political direction.
The site sits prominently on elevated ground and is straightforward to locate when approaching San Ġwann. Visitors should be prepared for exposed structures and wear suitable footwear for navigating the uneven surfaces safely.
Despite the great distance, the fortification attempted to bombard Valletta, an ambitious tactical choice in combat operations. French attacks in 1799 were successfully repelled, making it a notable example of determined resistance.
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