A series of events are being held today in Xagħra to mark the anniversary of the Great Siege of Malta.

This nearly four-month battle saw the Knights of Malta and the Maltese population repelling an attempted invasion by the Ottoman Empire in 1565. The siege ended on September 11 and became one of the most celebrated events in 16th-century Europe.

Two hundred years later, famed French enlightenment philosopher Voltaire even claimed that “[n]othing is better known than the siege of Malta”.

Today’s celebrations start with a Pontifical High Mass in the Basilica of the Nativity of Our Lady, presided over by Bishop Mario Grech at 9.30am. Following this, at 11am, a parade led by the Police Band will take place in the main square together with re-enactments of the Great Siege, the Black Plague and World War II. The morning will come to an end with the laying of commemorative wreaths in the square.

For more information, contact the Xagħra local council on 2156 3737.

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