Background

Birgu Freedom Monument

Commemorating Malta's complete independence, this Birgu monument symbolizes resilience and the end of British military presence.

The Freedom Monument in Birgu, Malta, commemorates the end of British colonial rule on March 31, 1979, marking a pivotal moment in Malta's journey to full independence. Designed by sculptor Antonio Agius, it symbolizes the resilience and determination of the Maltese people.

A brief summary to Birgu Monument

  • VGPF+367, Birgu, MT

Local tips

  • Visit during the annual Freedom Day celebrations on March 31st to witness local festivities and appreciate the monument's significance.
  • Take a stroll around the monument to appreciate the intricate details and the panoramic views of Birgu and the Grand Harbour.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of other historical sites in Birgu, such as Fort St. Angelo and the Inquisitor's Palace.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Birgu Waterfront, head towards the main square, Freedom Square, where the monument is located. The monument is directly opposite the Church of St. Lawrence. The walk is short and straightforward, taking only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus number 2, 3, or 4 to Birgu. Get off at the 'Riche' bus stop, which is a short walk from the Freedom Monument. From the bus stop, walk towards the main square; the monument will be visible across from the Church of St. Lawrence. A single bus ticket costs €1.30.

  • Ferry

    Take the ferry from Lascaris Wharf in Valletta's Grand Harbour to Birgu. From the Birgu ferry terminal, walk along the waterfront towards the city center. The Freedom Monument is a short walk from the waterfront, located in the main square opposite the Church of St. Lawrence. The ferry costs approximately €2.80 for a round trip.

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Discover more about Birgu Monument

The Freedom Monument, dominating the square opposite the Church of St. Lawrence in Birgu (Vittoriosa), is a man-made mound commemorating a turning point in Malta's modern political history. It marks the end of British military presence in Malta on March 31, 1979, a defining moment championed by then Prime Minister Dom Mintoff. Malta had already gained independence in 1964 and became a republic in 1974, but the departure of British forces completed the severing of military ties with foreign powers. The monument, designed by local sculptor Antonio Agius, features symbolic elements. Four full-size allegorical figures stand on top of the mound: a British sailor bidding farewell to a Maltese worker, another Maltese worker hoisting the Maltese flag, and a bugler. These figures represent the actual roles played during the handover ceremony on the first Freedom Day. The mound itself is constructed from large stones brought from Dingli Cliffs and is planted with various cacti and trees, bringing a piece of the countryside into urban Birgu. Along the passage leading to the statues, bronze phrases in Maltese, crafted by dockyard workers, reflect the workers' struggle for freedom. The monument serves as a reminder of Malta's journey toward full sovereignty and is a focal point for celebrations on Freedom Day.

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