Set the scene.
Jean de Valette led the Order of St John during the Great Siege of 1565. His place in Malta’s history is tied both to the defence of the islands and to the creation of Valletta the following year.
Here’s the twist.
A sword and dagger presented by Philip II of Spain commemorated the victory. Heritage Malta’s account of the dagger traces how these objects became part of the public memory of the siege.
Why it still matters.
His legacy is visible beyond portraits and armour. The city named after him remains a living capital, its streets continuing a story that began in 1566.
🧠 One to think about +
What does this story change about the way you see Malta today? Pick one detail you’d tell a friend — then check its source below.