The Corsairing Legacy of the Knights of Malta
The Knights of Malta, also known as the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, played a significant and often overlooked role in the corsairing activities of the Mediterranean. Armed with letters of marque, these privateers acted on behalf of Christian monarchs, attacking enemy ships and playing a crucial part in the naval efforts against the Ottoman Empire and Barbary pirates. The arrival of the Knights in Malta in 1530 marked the beginning of a regulated corsairing system, which became both a military strategy and a profitable venture for the island.
Regulated Corsairing under the Knights
Unlike typical pirates, corsairs operating under the Knights of Malta followed a strict code of conduct and were bound by regulations designed to keep their activities in check. These measures included:
- Tribunale degli Armamenti: In 1605, the Grand Master established this commission to regulate corsairing. The Knights imposed rules, such as requiring corsairs to fly the Knights’ flag and only attack Muslim vessels.
- Licensing and Taxation: Corsairs were issued “letters de course”, which legalized their activities under a formal legal framework. These privateers had to pay taxes on their operations, ensuring that their activities were official and recognized.
- Judicial Oversight: Special Maltese courts were established to handle disputes and violations of regulations. The Vatican acted as the final court of appeal for any cases, imposing penalties on those who violated the rules.
- Organized Corsair Campaigns: Every year, the Knights organized corsair campaigns against the Ottoman Empire and Barbary Coast, reinforcing Malta’s role as a dominant naval power in the Mediterranean.
This structure turned corsairing into a well-organized and profitable activity, contributing to the Knights’ wealth and strengthening Malta’s strategic position.
The Grand Harbor of Valletta: Hub of Maritime Operations
The Grand Harbor in Valletta, established as Malta’s primary naval base after the Knights arrived in 1530, became the focal point for corsairing activities.
Valletta’s natural harbor provided the ideal location for the Knights’ galleys, and the Knights fortified the area to protect their fleet. The harbor, situated between two peninsulas, was equipped with a protective chain across the entrance to prevent enemy ships from entering.
The Knights developed a powerful fleet and became active participants in the war against Ottoman and Barbary ships, using their maritime strength to maintain dominance in the Mediterranean. In 1566, Valletta was founded, and the city became the center of the Knights’ operations. Privateers operating from Valletta brought back valuable resources, particularly slaves, which contributed to the financial strength of the Order.
The dock creek with the fleet of the Knight of Malta.
Engraving from Mateo Perez di Alecio,1582
Privateer Tradition and the Bailli de Suffren Trophy
The privateer tradition of the Knights of Malta lives on today in the Trophée Bailli de Suffren (TBS), an annual offshore sailing race. The TBS retraces the path of the famous Pierre André de Suffren, a renowned Vice-Admiral and member of the Order of Malta. Nicknamed “Admiral Satan” by the English for his naval prowess, Suffren led campaigns against the Barbary pirates and the English. Each year, the classic sailing boats that participate in the TBS race challenge each other for the prestigious Admiral Satan’s sword, perpetuating the legacy of the Knights’ naval might.
Key Highlights of the Knights of Malta’s Corsairing Legacy:
- Regulation of Corsairing: The Knights’ structured framework for privateering, including letters de course, judicial oversight, and organized campaigns.
- Valletta’s Grand Harbor: The heart of the Knights’ maritime operations, home to their powerful fleet and a strategic naval base.
- The Bailli de Suffren Trophy: An annual race that honors the tradition of the Knights’ privateer campaigns against the Barbary pirates and Ottoman Empire.
