Fort St Elmo

A star-shaped fort was constructed in 1552 under the supervision of Knight Fra Leone Strozzi. Fort St Elmo received the brunt of the Ottoman forces during the Great Siege of 1565. Against all odds, the small fort resisted for a month. The 17th and 18th centuries witnessed several additions, including barracks, a church and a lighthouse. Under British rule Fort St Elmo was extensively upgraded for new artillery and played an important role in the defence of Malta during the Second World War. Its active role in sieges and battles made it ideal for hosting the National War Museum.