The evolution of the 'Porto delle galere' : from the era of the Order of St. John to the British colonial period

Abstract

The main aim of this dissertation is to study the evolution of the Porto delle Galere primarily through its architecture. The area under study consists of the waterfronts of the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. The period in question starts from the arrival of the Knights in the second quarter of the 16th century till the mid-19th century. During the Periods in consideration several major developments have occurred be it economical, political, military, or technological. Aspects of these developments translate into architecture. The first two chapters set the context for the latter chapters which deal more directly with the architecture of the Porto delle Galere. Frequent visits to the site were essential to reinforce my readings.