Migration and mobility in early modern Malta : the harbour-city of Valletta as a case-study, 1575-1650

Abstract

Valletta, the city built by gentlemen for gentlemen, relishes many glorifying titles all recalling its rich historical past. It is the 'modern' city built by the Knights of St John originally intended as a humble town- Citta' Umilissima- but later developed as a masterpiece of Baroque. In our time it received new appellations and was defined as a European Art City and a World Heritage City. Such titles indicate the historical reality present in Valletta during the early modern period when the city served as a principal hub in the Mediterranean and the centre of local economic and social activity. The Order of St John with their maritime endeavour and extravagance enabled it to turn into a prosperous commercial centre full of employment opportunities. Such features attracted numerous foreigners to the Maltese islands who mainly chose Valletta and the surrounding harbour areas as an alternative home where they put into use their maritime and artistic skills. This thesis intends to analyse features relating to incoming migration in early modern Malta since this area of study is still largely unexplored by local historians. A special emphasis will be given to the development of Valletta where various migrants settled upon their arrival in Malta. The chosen period of study is the immediate post Great Siege era, between the 1570s and the mid-17th century; a period when radical social and economic changes took place in the Maltese islands. Indeed, during this time-span, a visible development took place, notably the post-Great Siege reconstruction and the hustle and bustle of maritime activity all over the harbour area.