The title 'Great Siege' and the scale of World War II bombing do not automatically rank Malta's suffering. The 1551 invasion of Gozo is a leading candidate for the island's worst ordeal because between 5,000 and 6,000 soldiers and civilians were enslaved. The poorly documented first siege also belongs among Malta's harshest experiences. This comparison shifts attention from later fame and military spectacle to civilian loss, captivity, and depopulation.
Notable Point · 2:47:05-2:47:59
Which siege was Malta's worst ordeal?
Famous labels and spectacular battles do not necessarily identify the siege that imposed the greatest suffering on Malta's people.