Notre Dame Gate, Birgu

Constructed in 1675 under the auspices of the Order of Saint John, the grand baroque Notre Dame Gate served as the main gate for the Eastern Provinces and is a remarkable testament to the island's architectural heritage. It remains remarkably intact, boasting unique features that set it apart from other structures in Malta. Rising four stories high, it stands as the tallest edifice in the region, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the island from its rooftop.

The gate complex is comprised of four large bomb-proof casemates, each stacked atop the other and flanking the roadway. These casemates are crowned by a magnificent gatehouse, which originally housed the lifting mechanism for the portcullis gate—an impressive piece of engineering in its time. As one explores this historic building, it becomes evident that it carries the scars of its past. Musket ball indentations are etched into the stone, serving as a poignant reminder of the conflicts and battles that have unfolded here. Additionally, countless graffiti left behind by soldiers from the Order's navy, as well as the French and British, provide glimpses into the gate's varied and colorful history.

Over the years, Notre Dame Gate's purpose evolved. In 1870, the construction of the nearby Cottonera Military Hospital led to the gate assuming a new role as an adjunct to the medical establishment. During the Great War, following the Gallipoli campaign's tragic events in 1915, Malta became a critical hub for treating wounded troops. Notre Dame Gate played a part in this effort, accommodating some of the injured soldiers during their treatment and convalescence.