Village of San Gwann
The suburb of San Gwann, though appearing modern, holds a rich history intertwined with Malta's national narrative. Despite the predominance of contemporary structures, traces of the town's ancient past are scattered throughout.
The Mensija Cart Ruts, the oldest man-made evidence in San Gwann, date back to the Punic Period (around 2300-1000 BC), suggesting an agricultural community cultivating the fertile valleys of Wied Ghomor, Wied il-Ballut, and Wied Ghollieqa. The remnants of this prehistoric community, possibly dwelling in nearby caves, include megalithic-type stone blocks in Wied Ghomor.
Evidence from the Roman period is present with excavated tombs and a covered cistern in the region. Noteworthy is the Round Roman Tower of Ta' Cieda, part of a defensive network built around the 3rd century AD. The Arab influence is reflected in Semitic names found in medieval documents, such as Tal-Gharghar and L-Imsierah.
The medieval period saw the region inhabited by communities like Rahal Tigan and Rahal Ger, with the parochial church of St. Helena in Gharghar. The arrival of the Order of St. John in 1530 marked a period of safety, leading to population growth and the construction of structures like Torri ta’ Lanzun.
During the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, San Gwann played a strategic role, and in 1798-1800, it served as an outpost for Maltese troops blockading the French forces. The Ta’ Xindi Farmhouse became the headquarters during this time.
The town's history continued with limited impact during World War II, and it played a role in the British defense scheme against nuclear attacks, featuring underground flour mills. In the 1950s, a convent and a new church dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes were constructed.
The 1970s witnessed significant population growth, leading to San Gwann gaining separate district status in 1993. The town's first local council was elected in 1994. The Parish Church, dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, became a pivotal part of the community since its establishment in 1965. In essence, San Gwann's exterior of modernity conceals a historical tapestry dating back to ancient times.