Post of Castile, Cottonera Travel Guide

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Explore the Post of Castile in Birgu, a historic bastion that played a crucial role in Malta's Great Siege and offers a glimpse into its military past.

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Post of Castile

The Post of Castile, or Il-Prexxa, stands as the easternmost point of Birgu's land front, a testament to the city's crucial role in the Great Siege of 1565. Originally built in 1553 and later redesigned in the 18th century, this bastion offers a glimpse into Malta's military history and the strategic importance of Birgu.

A brief summary to Post of Castile

Hornworks of the Post of Castile, Il - Mandragg, Birgu, MT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Post of Castile.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
Combine your visit with a stroll around Birgu's other historical sites for a full day of exploration.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the area involves some walking and exploration.

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Explore Post of Castile on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Post of Castile, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Birgu Waterfront, walk towards Triq Sant' Anna in the direction of Fort St. Angelo. Continue to the roundabout, take the first exit onto Triq il-Ħobż, and then turn right onto Il-Mandragg. The Post of Castile will be on your right. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

From Valletta, take bus routes 2, 3, or 4 to Birgu. Alight at the 'Birgu Centre' bus stop. From there, walk towards the Birgu Waterfront and follow the walking directions. A single bus ticket costs €2.50.
Taxi

From Valletta, a taxi to the Post of Castile in Birgu will cost approximately €15-€20. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Post of Castile

The Post of Castile, known in Maltese as Il-Prexxa and in Italian as La Breccia, marks the eastern edge of Birgu's formidable land defenses. Constructed initially in 1553, it was significantly reconfigured in the 18th century. This historical landmark played a pivotal role during the Great Siege of 1565, withstanding heavy attacks from Ottoman forces.The bastion's name pays homage to the Langue of Castille, a division of the Spanish Knights Hospitaller who were responsible for its initial construction. The present layout, a result of 18th-century rebuilding by French architect Charles François de Mondion, incorporates a retrenchment and a hornwork. A defensive ditch surrounds the fortification, providing an additional layer of protection. Caponiers were constructed atop the structure to shield the knights and soldiers from shrapnel and enemy fire. Inside the fort, a tunnel leads to the defensive ditch, allowing for swift movement and communication during a siege. Additionally, the fort features storage facilities for ammunition, ensuring a steady supply for the defenders during times of conflict.During World War II, the tunnels and storage areas of the Post of Castile were repurposed as air-raid shelters for the citizens of Birgu, reflecting its enduring importance to the local population. Today, the Post of Castile stands as a reminder of Birgu's strategic past and the resilience of its people.