Concubines were very common in the 16th century, particularly with priests.

“It was prohibited but it was accepted,” Dr Abela noted.

Some even had more than one concubine at various pit stops. “For example, they would have one in Gozo, another one in Vittoriosa and one in Mdina for when they were travelling and staying overnight in different parishes,” she said.

Priests often had children and various notarial documents show that, in their will, they left their belongings to their concubines and children.