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St. Anthony's Battery: A Coastal Fortress in Qala
Explore St. Anthony's Battery in Qala, Gozo: a historic fortress with panoramic views of the Gozo-Comino channel and a glimpse into Malta's past.
St. Anthony's Battery, located on Qala Point in Gozo, Malta, is a historical artillery battery built in the early 18th century by the Order of Saint John. Overlooking the Gozo-Comino channel, it served as a strategic defensive outpost. Today, it stands as one of only two surviving batteries on Gozo, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Malta's military past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to St. Anthony's Battery
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
28MP+43, Qala, MT
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Getting There
Walking
From Qala's main square, walk east along Triq il-Qala towards the coastline. Follow the road as it curves along the coast, offering views of the sea. Continue until you reach Ras il-Qala (Qala Point), where St. Anthony's Battery is located. The walk is approximately 1.5 km and takes around 20-25 minutes. Note that the terrain can be uneven in some places.
Public Transport
From the Gozo Ferry Terminal in Mġarr, take bus 303 towards Qala. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes, and the bus stops at Qala. From the 'Qala' bus stop, walk along Triq il-Qala towards Ras il-Qala (Qala Point). Follow the road for about 15 minutes until you reach St. Anthony's Battery. A single bus ticket costs around €2.
Local tips
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Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and stunning photo opportunities.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
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Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Discover more about St. Anthony's Battery
St. Anthony's Battery, also known as Qala Battery or It-Trunċiera, is a significant historical site on the island of Gozo. Constructed between 1731 and 1734 by the Order of Saint John, it formed part of a network of coastal fortifications designed to protect the Maltese Islands. The battery's location on Ras il-Qala (Qala Point), the easternmost point of Gozo, provided a strategic vantage point over the Gozo-Comino channel.Named in honor of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, during whose reign it was built, the battery may have been designed by the military engineer Charles François de Mondion. Its unique semi-hexagonal design distinguishes it from other batteries of the period, which typically featured a semi-circular layout. The battery was equipped with a gun platform, two blockhouses, a free-standing redan with thick walls and musketry loopholes, flanking traverses, and a shallow ditch. In 1770, its armament included three 8-pounder guns and eight 6-pounder guns.Over time, St. Anthony's Battery fell into disrepair, with one blockhouse demolished and the gateway collapsed. However, restoration efforts commenced in 2007, led by Din l-Art Ħelwa and the Qala Local Council, with the aim of restoring the battery to its original state. Today, visitors can explore the restored battery, appreciate its unique architectural features, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and seascape. The site offers a tangible link to Malta's rich military history and the strategic importance of Gozo in defending the islands.
A brief summary to St. Anthony's Battery
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