Selmun palace in mellieha – Malta Selmun Palace stands as one of Malta’s most intriguing historical landmarks, an 18th-century masterpiece that reflects the island’s rich heritage and the legacy of the Knights of St. John. Nestled in the serene village of Selmun, close to Mellieħa in the northern part of the island, this grand structure has witnessed centuries of change and remains a symbol of Malta’s past splendor. Origins and Construction Built in the 18th century, Selmun Palace wasn’t designed as a typical noble residence or a fortification. Instead, it served a rather unique purpose, as a hunting lodge and retreat for the Knights of St. John, who ruled Malta at the time. The palace was funded by the Monte della Redenzione degli Schiavi, an initiative set up to collect funds to rescue Christian slaves from Ottoman captivity. The architecture of the palace is reminiscent of a castle, with a stately, square structure and corner towers giving it a fortress-like appearance. Its design is attributed to architect Domenico Cachia, who drew inspiration from Verdala Palace, another notable Knights’ retreat. The building’s imposing façade, large balconies, and surrounding open landscape provided the perfect setting for leisurely pursuits, including hunting — a favored pastime of the Knights. Historical Significance Beyond its role as a hunting lodge, the palace became a place of refuge and relaxation for the knights. It symbolized the wealth and power of the Order, standing as a testament to their ability to build opulent estates despite the island’s limited resources. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the palace’s function evolved. It was eventually repurposed as a hotel in the mid-20th century, drawing visitors seeking a luxurious, historical stay with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding countryside. Though the hotel eventually closed, the palace remains an iconic structure. Selmun Palace also holds significance due to its strategic location. Overlooking Mellieħa Bay (Ghadira) and facing St. Paul’s Islands, it provided a vantage point that could have been used for early warning during naval incursions, although it was never built with defense as a primary function. Architectural Features The palace’s exterior showcases a Baroque style, characterized by symmetrical design and ornamental details. The massive, rectangular structure boasts four corner towers that rise slightly above the main building, giving it a fortress-like silhouette. Inside, the palace was known for its spacious rooms, high ceilings, and large windows — designed to let in ample light and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. While the interior has since fallen into disrepair, glimpses of its past grandeur remain, from remnants of intricate plasterwork to grand stone staircases. The palace was surrounded by extensive grounds, including gardens and open fields used for hunting expeditions. Today, the area retains a wild, natural charm, making it a favorite spot for hikers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The Modern State of Selmun Palace Although the palace is currently closed to the public, its exterior remains a captivating sight for anyone exploring the Selmun area. There have been CONTINUE READING

St. Agatha’s Tower – Red Tower Perched atop the Marfa Ridge in the northern region of Malta, St. Agatha’s Tower, commonly known as the Red Tower, stands as a testament to the island’s rich military heritage and strategic significance. Constructed between 1647 and 1649 during the rule of the Order of St. John, this iconic edifice has played a pivotal role in Malta’s coastal defense system and continues to captivate visitors with its historical and architectural allure. Historical Significance The Red Tower was commissioned under the auspices of Grand Master Jean de Lascaris-Castellar, aligning with a series of fortifications known as the Lascaris Towers. These structures were integral to bolstering Malta’s defenses against the persistent threat of Ottoman incursions and corsair raids. Positioned to oversee the strategic Mellieħa Bay, the tower served as a vigilant sentinel against potential maritime threats, safeguarding the northern approaches to the island. The tower’s nomenclature, St. Agatha’s Tower, is derived from a small chapel dedicated to Saint Agatha, which was integrated into its design. This chapel featured an altar situated within a niche in one of the vaulted rooms on the first floor, reflecting the intertwining of military and religious functions within the fortress. Architectural Features Architecturally, the Red Tower exhibits a robust and functional design characteristic of 17th-century military fortifications. It boasts a square plan with four corner bastions that rise prominently above the main structure, providing elevated platforms for defensive operations. The walls, exceeding three meters in thickness, were constructed to withstand artillery bombardments, underscoring the strategic importance of the tower. The interior comprises two primary rooms on the first floor, each featuring barrel-vaulted ceilings. Access to the tower was originally granted via a stone staircase leading to a drawbridge, emphasizing security and controlled entry. The rooftop served as the main artillery platform, equipped with cannons to deter and engage enemy vessels approaching the coastline. Evolution Through the Centuries Throughout its existence, the Red Tower has undergone various modifications reflecting the evolving defensive needs of Malta. In 1715, an artillery battery was constructed around the tower, enhancing its offensive capabilities. This addition included a semicircular gun platform with an en barbette parapet and a blockhouse adjoining the western wall. A surrounding rock-hewn ditch further fortified the complex, illustrating the continuous efforts to adapt to emerging military technologies and threats. During the British colonial period, the tower remained a significant military asset. Although plans for extensive modifications in 1813 were not realized, the tower continued to serve as a naval station. Notably, it functioned as the Governor’s summer residence for a period, during which the British coat of arms replaced the original emblem of Grand Master de Lascaris. The tower’s strategic location ensured its continued use through both World Wars, adapting to the changing dynamics of military defense. Preservation and Modern – Day Significance Following the departure of British forces, the Red Tower experienced a phase of neglect before being repurposed as a radar station by the Armed Forces of Malta. Recognizing its historical CONTINUE READING