The Great Siege of Malta was a pivotal moment in the struggle between the Ottoman Empire and the Christian states of Europe. Beginning in May 1565, the siege was precipitated by the Ottoman desire to control the strategically important island of Malta, which served as a critical base for trade and military operations across the Mediterranean Sea. The island was held by the Knights Hospitaller, a military order bound to protect Christendom, who had established their presence there after being expelled from Rhodes. Led by Grand Vizier Mehmed Sokollu, the Ottoman forces aimed to capture Malta and eliminate the Knights as a threat to Ottoman dominance in the region.

The siege unfolded over several months, with the Ottoman forces launching relentless assaults against the fortifications established by the Knights under the leadership of Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Valette. The defenders utilized their knowledge of the terrain and fortified positions to withstand the repeated attacks, showcasing exceptional resilience and military strategy. The Siege of Malta saw fierce and brutal fighting, with heavy casualties on both sides, as the Knights were determined to maintain control of the island at any cost.

The culmination of the siege came in September when the Knights launched a daring counter-offensive, taking advantage of the weakened state of the Ottoman forces due to attrition and poor supply lines. On September 8, 1565, the Knights achieved a decisive victory, forcing the Ottomans to withdraw from Malta. This pivotal moment not only preserved the Knights' presence in the Mediterranean but also marked a significant turning point in the decline of Ottoman expansion into Europe, altering the balance of power in the region significantly.