Fort Rinella: A Victorian Fortress with a Mighty Gun
Explore a Victorian fort in Malta with the world's largest cannon, live reenactments, and a glimpse into 19th-century military life.
Fort Rinella in Kalkara is a meticulously restored Victorian-era coastal battery, famed for housing one of the world's only two surviving Armstrong 100-ton guns. Built by the British in the late 19th century, it offers a captivating glimpse into Malta's military past with historical reenactments and a museum showcasing Victorian army life.
A brief summary to Fort Rinella
- Kalkara, Kalkara, MT
- +35621800992
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the schedule for historical reenactments, including live artillery and musketry firings, to enhance your visit.
- Purchase tickets online for potential discounts and to save time upon arrival.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Malta at War Museum or Lascaris War Rooms using a multi-site pass for cost savings.
- Take bus 3 from Valletta for direct access to Fort Rinella's main gate.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's various levels, underground chambers and the surrounding ditch.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Valletta, the most straightforward way to reach Fort Rinella is by bus. Take bus number 3 from the Valletta main bus terminal. The bus stops directly outside the fort's main gate. The bus trip takes approximately 30 minutes, and buses run every half hour. A single journey ticket costs €2.50 during the summer (mid-June to mid-October).
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Valletta. A taxi ride to Fort Rinella takes around 15 minutes. Expect to pay approximately €15-€20 for the trip. Taxi Cab Malta, Malta Taxi Valletta, and eCabs are some of the taxi services operating in Valletta.
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Walking
For those inclined to walk, Fort Rinella is approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) from Valletta, a walk of about 45-50 minutes. The route involves some inclines. From Valletta, head east towards the Grand Harbour and follow the coastal road towards Kalkara. While walking, note that there may be limited shade, so bring water and sun protection.
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