Background

Freedom Day Monument: A Symbol of Maltese Independence

Commemorating Malta's independence, this monument in Birgu symbolizes freedom and national pride with its detailed sculptures and historical significance.

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The Freedom Day Monument in Birgu commemorates March 31, 1979, the day British forces departed Malta, marking the end of foreign military presence after a thousand years. The monument symbolizes the resilience and determination of the Maltese people in their journey toward independence.

A brief summary to Freedom Day Monument

  • VGPC+VC3, Birgu, MT

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Birgu to fully appreciate its historical significance and beautiful architecture.
  • Explore nearby Fort St. Angelo and the Malta Maritime Museum to delve deeper into Malta's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are already in Birgu, the Freedom Day Monument is easily accessible on foot. From the Birgu Waterfront, walk towards St. Lawrence Church. The monument is located in the square between the church and the waterfront. The area is well-signposted, and the monument is a prominent landmark.

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus number 2, 3, or 4. These buses will take you directly to Birgu. Alight at the bus stop in Birgu, near the waterfront. From there, walk towards St. Lawrence Church; the monument is located in the square between the church and the waterfront. A single bus fare costs approximately €2-€3.

  • Ferry

    Alternatively, take the ferry from Lascaris Wharf in Valletta's Grand Harbour to Birgu. From the Birgu ferry terminal, walk towards the city center and St. Lawrence Church. The Freedom Day Monument will be visible in the square between the church and the harbor. The ferry crossing takes about 7 minutes. A round-trip ferry ticket costs around €2.80.

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Discover more about Freedom Day Monument

Located in the historic city of Birgu, the Freedom Day Monument is a striking tribute to Malta's journey toward independence. It commemorates March 31, 1979, the day the British government closed its military base in Malta, signifying the end of British rule. Malta had already gained independence in 1964 and become a republic in 1974, but the departure of British forces marked a complete end to foreign military presence. The monument is more than just a statue; it's a symbol of the Maltese people's resilience and national pride. Designed by sculptor Antonio Agius, the monument features a mound constructed of stones from Dingli Cliffs, with cacti and trees bringing the countryside into urban Birgu. Four bronze figures stand atop the mound, depicting a British sailor shaking hands with a Maltese worker, another Maltese worker raising the Maltese flag, and a bugler. These figures represent the peaceful handover of the naval base to Maltese control. Along the path to the statues are bronze phrases in Maltese, created by dockyard workers, reflecting the struggle for freedom. The monument is located between the waterfront and St. Lawrence Church, at the archway that once marked the entrance to the Royal Naval base. Today, Freedom Day is celebrated annually with ceremonies at the monument and the War Memorial in Floriana, as well as a regatta in the Grand Harbour.

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