A small island in Malta has a history that's anything but ordinary. Once known as Bishop's Island, it was acquired in the late 16th century by the Cathedral Chapter of Mdina. The island later became home to a quarantine hospital during a plague outbreak in the 1590s, and the hospital was made of wooden huts.
Over the years, the island transitioned from quarantine center to a naval base during World War II, where it was utilized by the Royal Navy. Notably, Fort Manoel, built in the 1720s, stands as a remarkable example of 18th-century military architecture, named after the Grand Master who commissioned its construction.
In the early 2000s, a concession was granted for development on the island, but it faced significant pushback from local activists concerned about public access to its shores. The situation escalated over the years, leading to successful campaigns to ensure the public could enjoy the foreshore.
Manoel Island also hosted a charming duck sanctuary, maintained entirely by private donations. However, in 2021, this sanctuary was demolished after complaints regarding conditions. Today, the island features a yacht marina and is known for its annual fireworks displays.
Manoel Island continues to be a site where history, nature, and community efforts intersect in unexpected ways.
