STRONG RICASOLI

On the peninsula behind Kalkara and opposite Fort Saint-Elme stands Fort Ricasoli, which played an important role during the Great Siege (the great battle against the Turks in 1565).

Designed by military architect Maurizio Valperga, its construction was financed by Italian master Giovanni Francesco Ricasoli (hence the fort's name). Grandmaster N. Cottoner then had the Saint-Nicolas chapel built in the courtyard. Its altar is decorated by Mattia Preti.

The fort was subsequently extended and strengthened according to the needs of the time.

During the ^19th century, the English built numerous casemates, installed modern cannons and barracks for their soldiers. In 1870, the fort was defended by 700 men and 100 artillery pieces. It also played an important role during the Second World War, coming under frequent German attack. Bombs destroyed the Canonniers' house and the Baroque gate.

After the war, the fort became a barracks. Today, it is used as an oil terminal; hence the view of the dumps and the smell of fuel oil. To the right, on the other hand, you come to the forts of Saint-Rocco and Rinella, from which you can see the sea.