Construction of the Cottonera Lines began in 1670, but work was suspended ten years later due to a lack of funds.

By this time, the bastioned enceinte was complete, but other crucial parts such as cavaliers, ravelins, the ditch, the glacis and the covertway had not yet been built.

In the early 18th century, some efforts were made to complete the lines, although they still lacked some crucial elements.

[2] Between May and July 1940, some Maltese who were believed to be supporters of Italian irridentism, including future Prime Minister Enrico Mizzi, were interred within the fort.

[5] In April 2015, the fort's owners asked €3.2 million to sell it to private investors.