This historic photograph presents a closer view of the Citadel in Victoria, with its massive limestone fortifications rising sharply above the surrounding settlement. The Citadel has been the central stronghold of Gozo since antiquity, but its current defensive form largely dates to the 16th and 17th centuries, when it was rebuilt by the Order of St John following repeated raids on the island. The angled bastions and thick walls visible here were designed to withstand artillery and provide strong defensive coverage over the surrounding land.