Marsamxett Harbour
Geography
Marsamxett Harbour is a natural harbour on the island of Malta. It is located to the north-west of the larger Grand Harbour. The harbour is generally more shallow than the Grand Harbour, and unlike the Grand Harbour, it is essentially divided into two distinct creeks, a larger one to the west and a smaller one to the east. The harbour extends inland to Pietà and Msida over an area of 0.7 km^2.
History
The harbour has been used since prehistoric times. The Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, the Knights of St. John, and the British have all utilised the harbour. The Knights of St. John built a number of fortifications around the harbour, such as Fort Manoel and Fort Tigné. The British also built a number of fortifications, like the Tigné Barracks.
Present Day
Today, Marsamxett Harbour is used for yachting facilities, a ferry service, and various other maritime activities. The harbour is also the location of the University of Malta and a number of hospitals.