Have you ever wandered through the localities of Malta and come across intriguing crosses? As highlighted by the Department of Malta’s Facebook page, these are known as the Dejma Crosses, each bearing a tale that traces back to the 15th century, steeped in the island's rich history.

The Dejma, originating in the 14th century, was a mercenary combatant force dedicated to safeguarding the Maltese Islands against potential Ottoman raids on its towns. First documented in 1462, the Dejma operated through a strategic alert system. In case of an imminent attack, watchtowers along the Maltese Coast would ignite fires, signalling an impending danger.

The unique aspect of the Dejma system lay in the use of distinctive crosses marking designated meeting points for the soldiers. Known as "Dejma Crosses" or "Salib Tad-Dejma" in Maltese, these crosses served as beacons guiding soldiers to muster at specific locations around the islands.

Upon reaching these marked points, the soldiers prepared for battle while meanwhile, civilians sought refuge in fortified cities like Mdina or Cittadella, with Valletta becoming a sanctuary after the Great Siege.

The legacy of the Dejma Crosses endures, silently narrating the tales of vigilance and unity that shaped Malta's resilience against historical threats.

Have you ever come across these intriguing Dejma Crosses?