The Siege of Malta 1565: How 6,000 Defenders Crushed 40,000 Ottomans

The year is 1565. The Ottoman Empire, led by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, launches one of the largest invasions in history. Over 40,000 soldiers and hundreds of ships descend on the tiny island of Malta, defended by just 6,000 knights, soldiers, and villagers under Grand Master Jean de Valette.

What followed became one of the bloodiest sieges of the 16th century and one of Christianity’s greatest victories. From the heroic sacrifice at Fort St. Elmo to the desperate counterattacks at Birgu and Senglea, this was the battle that saved Europe from Ottoman expansion.