From the outside, it’s an imposing fortress made entirely of brick. Its sturdy and impregnable frame can be seen from far away, and draws the gaze immediately. But do not be deceived by its somewhat plain exterior, for it conceals a long and colourful history. It was conceived in the wake of the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, during which the Ottoman Empire made a failed attempt to take over the island. The Order of St. John, a Catholic military order, decided to permanently settle on the island as its guardian and subsequently built the fortified city of Valletta. The St. James Cavalier was included as part of these defences, and was installed with guns to protect the city from the landward side. British occupation during the 19th and 20th century turned its cavernous halls into a sort of officers’ mess, carrying out minor internal renovations in the process. Today, it has changed tenants once again and is currently occupied by the Spazju Kreattiv cultural center. The meaning of this space has been reinvented in the present day, but its timeless history remains unchanged. A visit there will allow you to learn more about the intriguing past of Malta.