Floriana was founded on the 9th of May in 1724.
Today marks Floriana's 300th anniversary, a celebration of its founding on the 9th of May in 1724, by Portuguese Grand Master Manoel De Vilhena. Initially designated for residential purposes, Floriana's establishment amid a time prioritising defense was a bold decision.
Named after Pietro Paola Floriani, an Italian military engineer and the man behind the design of the Floriana Lines. The town’s original official name was Borgo Vilhena after the Grandmaster. However, the name fell out of use in favour of Floriana or il-Furjana in Maltese.
In the aftermath of the Great Siege of 1565, the construction of Valletta, a formidable fortress, was crucial. However, concerns lingered regarding potential breaches in its defenses. To address this, military engineer Pietro Paolo Floriani proposed the creation of Floriana Lines, a secondary defense outside Valletta's walls. Although initially met with skepticism, Grand Master Gregorio Carafa later commissioned their construction between 1680 and 1690.
By 1640, the fortifications were partially defensible, but construction and modifications continued throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. They were fully complete in the 1720s. The area between the Valletta land front and the Floriana Lines started to be built in 1742 when Grand Master Antonion Manoel de Vilhena founded the suburb Borgo Vilhena.
Over time, Floriana grew, alleviating overpopulation in Valletta. De Vilhena, recognising the need for residential expansion, authorised Floriana's development while safeguarding its defensive integrity. His decree, signed on the 9th of May 9 in 1724, dictated strict conditions for construction, ensuring the area's defensibility during a siege.
De Vilhena's foresight extended beyond urban planning; he championed social welfare, founding institutions like the Ospizio and Conservatorio.
Beyond its football association, Floriana embodies a rich history worth exploring—a tapestry woven with stories of resilience and foresight.
Happy birthday Floriana!