Fort Lascaris: Valletta's Harbor Guardian
Explore Fort Lascaris in Valletta: a historic fortress with stunning harbor views and a glimpse into Malta's military past.
Fort Lascaris, also known as Lascaris Battery or Lascaris Bastion, is located on the east side of Valletta, Malta. Constructed by the British in 1854, it connects to the St. Peter & Paul Bastion of the Valletta Land Front. The battery is named after Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, who had built a garden on the site. During World War II, the Lascaris War Rooms were dug beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the casemates of Lascaris Battery, serving as Britain's secret headquarters for the island's defense. This network of tunnels and chambers, situated 150 feet below the Upper Barrakka Gardens and Saluting Battery, played a vital role in military operations. The facility later housed the headquarters for the Allied invasion of Sicily in 1943. Visitors to Fort Lascaris can explore well-preserved structures, including gun emplacements and underground passageways. The fort's architecture combines Baroque and Renaissance elements. Fort Lascaris offers panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and surrounding landscapes.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking and some uneven surfaces.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Grand Harbour.
A brief summary to Fort Lascaris
- VFS Valletta 2, Valletta, MT
Getting There
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Walking
From Valletta City Gate, walk straight onto Republic Street. Turn right onto St. John's Street, continuing to the end. Turn left onto St. Augustine Street, where you'll find the entrance to Fort Lascaris on the right. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transportation
From the Valletta bus terminus, exit and walk towards the main street. Follow signs to VFS Valletta 2. Fort Lascaris is a short walk away. A single bus fare within Valletta costs around €1.50 - €2.00.
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Taxi
From anywhere in Valletta, a taxi ride to Fort Lascaris is a quick option. Taxis are readily available. The ride typically takes only a few minutes. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a short trip within Valletta.
Attractions Nearby to Fort Lascaris
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The Lascaris War Rooms
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Barrakka Lift
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Upper Barrakka fountain
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Schody Trig Batterija
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Mitsos
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Upper Barrakka
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Victoria Gate
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Nice Orange Cat
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Red Phone Booth and balconies
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Stairs Triq Sant' Orsla
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Ta' Giezu Church
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China Cultural Centre in Malta
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Grand Harbour
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Victor Galea Haberdashery
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Knisja Santa Katerina tal-Italja
