It retained its original layout until the late 1970s, when it was converted into a discothèque and snack bar known as Rook (after the chess piece) and major alterations were made to the battery.

Qolla l-Bajda Battery was built by the Order of Saint John in 1716 on the spur of land between the bays of Xwejni and Qbajjar.

The battery is the only surviving part of a chain of fortifications that defended Marsalforn and nearby bays from Ottoman or Barbary attacks.

[2] The battery consists of a semi-circular gun platform ringed by a parapet with six embrasures, and two blockhouses joined by a wall.

At this point, some structures were built on the gun platform, the entrance was enlarged, and the ramp leading to it was replaced by a flight of steps.

In response, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage made a request to the Land Department, which issued an eviction order against Rook Limited in 2007.