The Sheer Bastion or as it is also known il-Maċina is a wedge-shaped bastion in Dockyard Creek that forms part of the fortifications of Senglea. The Sheer Bastion was built in 1554 by the knights of St John and it was used to hoist and lower masts onto ships. The name ‘Maċina’ derives from the Italian word ‘macchina’ which refers to a large crane structure which was used for hoisting and lowering mast and other cargo. The Sheer Bastion now forms part of the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a magnificent historic place used as a wedding venue and a luxurious boutique hotel which offers visitors panoramic views of the Maltese harbour.
- Places of Interest ·
