The Fortifications of Malta 1530-1945

Description

The Island of Malta occupies a pivotal position in the Mediterranean, forming an outpost between North Africa and the soft underbelly of Europe. Such has been its strategic importance throughout the years that it has become one of the most fortified places in the world. Following the successful defence of the island during the Great Siege of 1565, the Knights Hospitaller built new walls and fortifications. These defences failed when Napoleon occupied Malta in 1798, and the island was retaken by the British in 1800. From this point onwards, Malta's defences were modernised throughout the 19th century and the island's final test came during World War II. This book examines all these different styles of fortification from the 16th to the 20th century.

Originally from Wales, but now living in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, Charles Stephenson is an historian and writer. He has written widely on British attempts to develop weapons of mass destruction in the 19th century, including an article in the Osprey Military Journal. This is his first book for Osprey Steve Noon was born in Kent, UK, and attended art college in Cornwall. He has had a lifelong passion for illustration, and since 1985 has worked as a professional artist. Steve has provided award-winning illustrations for renowned publishers Dorling Kindersley, where his interest in historical illustration began.