Hotel Phoenicia - A Brief History

During the years, vegetation has slowly rendered the fortification features illegible in most areas of the garden. Although not proven, it is probable that the lower parts of the garden, towards the harbour, might still accommodate the remains of traverses below the landscaping. However, it seems unlikely that the landfill of this area holds any historical value, particularly given the fact that this area was modified several times over the past century.

THE LAUNDRY AND DITCH This zone is the continuation of the outer works ditch at the bottom of St John’s counterguard. It is also bordered by the counterguard’s walls on one side and the counterscarp on the other. The single storey buildings existing on site appear to have been built after the war. Pre-war documents indicate the presence of previous buildings on site, which formed part of the military facilities developed by the British in the area. A site inspection did not reveal any remains of these structures which had a smaller footprint than the current buildings.

The counterscarp wall is clearly visible along this zone behind the existing buildings. Of particular interest is the presence of an opening in the same wall. Currently blocked-up by masonry work,