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Fort Campbell: A Coastal Fortress in Mellieħa

Explore the ruins of Fort Campbell in Mellieħa, Malta, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's WWII military history.

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Fort Campbell, also known as Fortizza ta' Selmun, is a former British fort in Mellieħa, Malta, constructed between 1937 and 1938. It was the last major fortification built in Malta and served to protect Mellieħa Bay and St. Paul's Bay. Today, the fort lies in ruins but offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Malta's military history.

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A brief summary to Fort Campbell

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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X97R+G54, Mellieħa, MT

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    Getting There

    Public Transport

    From Mellieħa's main square, take a local bus route toward Cirkewwa. Ask the driver to stop near Fort Campbell at X97R+G54. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the fort. Bus fare is approximately €2.50.

    Walking

    From Mellieha Bay, head southeast on Triq il-Mellieħa. At the junction with Triq l-Imghazel, turn left and continue for about 1 kilometer. Fort Campbell will be on your right. The walk takes approximately 25-30 minutes.

    Taxi

    From Mellieħa, a taxi to Fort Campbell is a short ride. Typical cost for a short taxi trip in Mellieħa is estimated to be between €15-€20.

    Local tips

    Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
    Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort may involve walking on uneven surfaces.
    Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and St. Paul's Islands.
    Check for guided tour schedules to enhance your understanding of the fort's history.
    Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Mellieħa Bay for a relaxing beach experience.

    Discover more about Fort Campbell

    Fort Campbell, or Fortizza ta' Selmun as it's known locally, is a historical landmark in Mellieħa, Malta, built by the British in the late 1930s. Positioned on the Selmun Peninsula, it strategically overlooks Mellieħa Bay and St. Paul's Bay, serving as a crucial defense point.The fort's design reflects the changing nature of warfare at the time. Unlike earlier fortifications with thick ramparts, Fort Campbell was built with thinner walls to resemble the surrounding countryside's field walls, providing camouflage against aerial observation. The layout included dispersed buildings and machine-gun posts for perimeter defense.During World War II, Fort Campbell was modified with additional barracks and a radar installation. After the war, its strategic importance declined, and it was decommissioned by the 1970s. Today, the fort is in a state of disrepair, with many rooms in ruins due to vandalism and theft. Despite its condition, visitors can still explore the site, though caution is advised due to safety concerns.The Mellieħa Local Council has expressed interest in restoring the fort and potentially turning it into a picnic or camping site. The fort offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and St. Paul's Islands, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

    A brief summary to Fort Campbell

    Use Fort Campbell as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

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