The Guard Towers to be found around the Valletta Bastions. In the past these where used to guard the ports surrounding the capital. The Valletta bastions where built in the 16th century, for the city to be abel to defend itself. Valletta is surrounded by two ports being the Grand Harbour and Sliema Harbour. For more than 2000 years, Mdina has played a key role in the island's history. The Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs all had their say in the development of this impressive Medieval City. High on a plateau in the middle of the island, away from the busy harbours and tourist resorts, 'The Silent City' as it is otherwise known is set back in time, another age caught within its panoramic bastions.