Kappella ta’ Sant’Anna

Historical Origins

Kappella ta’ Sant’Anna is a historic Roman Catholic chapel located within the defensive walls of Fort St Angelo in Birgu. Its existence is first documented in the 13th century, when records identify a Christian place of worship on this site within the castle then known as Castrum Maris.

According to tradition, the chapel stands on a site long considered sacred, possibly linked to ancient temples predating Christianity. The present structure was built around 1430, likely by the De Nava family who then administered the castle.

Enlargement and the Order of Saint John

When the Knights of the Order of Saint John arrived in Malta in 1530, they converted Castrum Maris into the fortified stronghold known as Fort St Angelo. In 1532, Grand Master Philippe Villiers de L’Isle-Adam enlarged the chapel and adapted it for use as his private worship space.

Over the years the chapel became closely associated with the Knights’ spiritual life, housing relics and enhancing liturgical functions within the fortress complex.

Changing Functions Through History

After the Order relocated its base to Valletta in 1571, the chapel remained in use by the fort’s garrison until the French occupation of Malta in 1798.

Under British rule, the building ceased religious functions and was repurposed as a store for weapons and ammunition and later as a school. It even served briefly as a Church of England chapel for naval personnel. It was only reconsecrated as a Catholic chapel in the mid-20th century.

Architecture & Interior

The chapel is built from local Maltese limestone and features a simple charming façade with an arched doorway and distinct oval window above. A small bell-cot with a stone Maltese cross tops the roofline.

Internally, the asymmetric plan includes a spacious nave and several altars, evidencing layers of adaptation over centuries. The structure combines Gothic and medieval elements with later additions by the Knights.

Restoration & Modern Use

The chapel was restored in 1994 after extended disuse and closure. Under a treaty dated 5 December 1998, the upper parts of Fort St Angelo, including the chapel, were granted to the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.

During the comprehensive Fort St Angelo rehabilitation between 2012 and 2015, further conservation work was undertaken. From 2016 guided tours included the chapel, and by 2019 it became fully accessible to visitors as part of the fort’s heritage route.

Visiting the Chapel

Today, Kappella ta’ Sant’Anna is part of Fort St Angelo’s museum experience. Visitors can explore this historic sacred space while learning about its centuries-long evolution. Guided tours typically include commentary on its medieval origins, enlargement by the Knights, and architectural features.