Older than Valletta and a more vintage seat of power than the city built by gentlemen for gentlemen across the water, the three cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua are the cradle of Maltese history.

Forming a picturesque backdrop to the Grand Harbour, the three cities have made Malta’s maritime fortunes. While the harbour inlets have been used since Phoenician times, the docks have provided shelter and repair to ships in times of war and peace.

Nowadays, Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua still stand proud, their palaces, forts, bastions, churches and noble houses a beautiful testament to their history.

Senglea stands on a narrow promontory, protruding into the Grand Harbour between two creeks. With its houses lined up by the waterline, Senglea looks like a smaller version of Venice. When the Knights of St. John ruled the island, Senglea was a favourite hunting ground – in fact, a large number of olive trees were planted to add adventure to the hunt.

With its houses lined up by the waterline, Senglea looks like a smaller version of Venice

Then in 1553, Grand Master de la Sengle transformed Senglea into a fortified city – its grid plan was later adopted for the construction of the new capital, Valletta.

War has been cruel to Senglea. During the Great Siege of 1565, Senglea was ravaged by furious attacks – however, it remained unconquered to earn the title of Invincible City. Almost four centuries later, it was heavily bombed – in 1943, King George VI, Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt visited the city, which lay in sad ruins.

After World War II, all that remained of the city were a few houses, one church and the stocky bastions. Having been disassembled stone by stone, the famous gardjola, with its sculpted eye and ear serving as a warning that the enemy can be seen and heard, was also spared.

Nowadays, Senglea is coming up in the world. Houses are being restored and its beauty appreciated. Enthusiasm walks the streets. Its waterfront is also becoming a busy place. The seventh edition of the BOV Valletta Boat Show 2013 will also add to the excitement, as befits a city with such a rich maritime history.

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