The Fort was conceived as a city on the promontory of Ras it-Tafal overlooking Mġarr Harbour in 1722. It was designed by Louis François d’Aubigné de Tigné, a military engineer. Its building commenced in 1749 and was financed by Bailiff Jacques François de Chambray (1687-1756), Lieutenant General of the Ships and Governor of Gozo (1749-1756).

National Archives Reference Number: 1171