St. Anthonys Battery in Gozo
Perched on the easternmost point of Gozo, St. Anthony’s Battery stands as a testament to the island’s rich military heritage. Constructed between 1731 and 1732 by the Order of Saint John, this artillery battery was part of a strategic network of coastal fortifications designed to safeguard the Maltese Islands from maritime threats.
Historical Significance
Saint Anthony’s Battery, also known locally as “It-Trunċiera,” was strategically positioned at Ras il-Qala to oversee and defend the channel between Gozo and Comino. Its primary role was to prevent enemy vessels from navigating this crucial passage, thereby protecting Gozo from potential invasions. The battery was named in honor of Saint Anthony, reflecting its construction during the tenure of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena.
Architectural Features of St. Anthony’s Battery
Unlike the typical semi-circular designs of the period, St. Anthony’s Battery features a unique semi-hexagonal front, providing enhanced structural strength and defensive coverage. Its robust free-standing redan, built with thick walls and musketry loopholes, allowed soldiers to fire at attackers while remaining protected. To further strengthen its defenses, the battery included flanking traverses to block enemy fire and a shallow surrounding ditch to hinder enemy advances. Designed primarily for coastal defense, it also had strong land-based fortifications to repel invasions. The entrance is adorned with the sculpted coat of arms of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, symbolizing the power and authority of the Order of Saint John while adding a touch of grandeur to its martial purpose.
Armament and Defense
Now we will describe the weaponry and ammunition that was stored at St. Anthony’s Battery in 1770. The battery was armed with three 8-pounder guns and eight 6-pounder guns—these numbers refer to the weight of the cannonballs they fired. The 8-pounder cannons could fire heavier projectiles, while the 6-pounders were slightly smaller but still effective in defense.
To support these cannons, the battery maintained a large supply of ammunition, which included:
- Roundshot – solid iron cannonballs designed to damage enemy ships by smashing through their hulls.
- Grapeshot – a cluster of small iron balls that spread out when fired, acting like a giant shotgun blast, useful for attacking enemy crew rather than their ships.
This stockpile ensured that the battery was always ready to defend against potential attacks by enemy ships attempting to pass through the Gozo-Comino channel.
Decline and Restoration
Over the centuries, Saint Anthony’s Battery fell into disrepair. One of its blockhouses was demolished, and the gateway collapsed during a storm, leaving the structure in a dilapidated state. However, recognizing its historical value, restoration efforts commenced in 2007. Led by Din l-Art Ħelwa in collaboration with the Qala Local Council and the Malta Environment and Planning Authority, the project aimed to return the battery to its former glory. The demolished blockhouse and gateway were meticulously reconstructed, and by 2014, significant progress had been made in preserving this iconic landmark.
Visiting St. Anthony’s Battery Today
Today, Saint Anthony’s Battery stands as one of only two surviving coastal batteries in Gozo, the other being Qolla l-Bajda Battery near Marsalforn. Its location offers panoramic views of the Gozo-Comino channel, making it a favored spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike. The surrounding landscape remains largely unchanged since the 18th century, providing visitors with a glimpse into the island’s storied past.
Exploring Gozo's Maritime Heritage
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