Fort St. Elmo : a historical survey, 1552-1798

Abstract

The formation of the land in the north-eastern part of Malta facing Sicily affords a safe and large harbour for galleys. A. narrow, rocky promontory called Mount Sciberras stretches out into the sea, creating two small gulfs - that on the west is called the port of Masrsamxett and its mouth from the tip of the headland to the hermitage of St. Mary (now called Tigne) on the opposite side, 250 canne in width. On the other side of the promontory is of greater importance and therefore acquired the name of the Great Port. Its entrance from the same point of the tongue of land to the Punta delle Forche or Gallows Point (now called Ricasoli) is 256 canne wide. The extreme point of this promontory is thus in a commanding position, dominating the entrance into both harbours, and consequently of great strategic importance.