Filippo Castagna facts for kids

Filippo Castagna (Maltese: Filippu Castagna, born November 19, 1765 – died January 26, 1830) was an important Maltese leader and politician. He lived during a time of big changes in Malta, especially when the French and British were involved.

Early Life and Fighting for Freedom

Filippo Castagna was born in a town called Għaxaq on November 19, 1765. When the French took over Malta in 1798, Filippo became a leader for several towns, including Żurrieq, Safi, Kirkop, and Gudja.

When the Maltese people started a rebellion against French rule in September 1798, Castagna strongly supported them. He even helped capture Saint Thomas Tower from the French soldiers. In February 1799, he was chosen to represent Gudja in the rebel Consiglio Popolare, which was like a people's council. The British Civil Commissioner, Alexander Ball, also asked him to check on Malta's forts and defenses.

A Leader in British Malta

After the French gave up and Malta became a British protectorate (meaning it was protected by Britain), Filippo Castagna continued to serve his country. He was made the luogotenente (a local governor or leader) for the towns of Senglea and Cospicua.

In November 1801, Castagna was one of six important people who traveled all the way to London. Their mission was to tell the British government what the Maltese people needed. Charles Cameron, another British leader, said that Castagna was well-liked, smart, and had fair ideas.

After another leader named Emmanuele Vitale passed away in 1802, Castagna was given a very important job: Governor of Gozo. He was in charge of the island of Gozo until this position was ended in 1814.

Later Years

Filippo Castagna retired in 1814. He moved to a house in St George's Bay, which is in Birżebbuġa. He passed away on January 26, 1830, after being sick for a long time. He was buried inside the Għaxaq parish church, in his hometown.