National Holiday - Victory Day 8th September This national holiday marks three significant victories that the Maltese people have had over their usurpers during the course of history. In 1565, the Sicilian fleet helped Malta and the Knights of St. John defeat the Ottoman Invasion. The Ottomans besieged Gozo in 1551, capturing its population and capturing Vittoriosa and Senglea. After losing commander Dragut Reis and most troops, the Ottoman attacks ceased on September 8th due to a bluff-defence from Mdina. This bloodiest battle is now known as The Great Siege of Malta. The second of the three victories occurred in 1800, […]