A small geological fault runs across the Mediterranean island from Fomm-ir Rih to Fort Madliena. The Order of Malta, which had ruled the archipelago since 1530, built several watchtowers and shelters for soldiers along this line around 1722.[1] When the English occupied Malta in 1800, these fortifications were initially forgotten. In the second half of the 19th century, the English began to build large-scale defensive works.[1]
After initially building three forts along the fault crest in 1875, they later began to connect them with a wall, which was completed in 1890. The wall was then extended to include gun batteries and shelters, and a fourth fort was built. This work was completed in 1897, and the bulwark was named the Victoria Lines in honor of Queen Victoria, who was celebrating her 60th anniversary at the time.[1]
The wall was intended as a protective barrier against enemy attacks, but it never achieved any significant impact, as British naval superiority never posed a serious threat of attack.[1]
From 1907 onwards, it completely lost its significance. The Victoria Lines gradually disintegrated. On August 27, 1998, they were added – provisionally at first – to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Source: Wikipedia