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Malta at War Museum: A Chronicle of Courage

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Experience Malta's WWII history firsthand in an authentic air raid shelter and barracks. A moving tribute to Maltese courage.

The Malta at War Museum in Birgu (Vittoriosa) vividly portrays the Maltese people's resilience during the WWII Malta Blitz. Housed in an 18th-century army barracks with an underground air raid shelter, the museum showcases artifacts, newsreels, and the documentary 'Malta G.C.,' narrated by Sir Laurence Olivier.

A brief summary to Malta at War Museum

  • Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the underground air raid shelter to understand the conditions endured by Maltese civilians during the war.
  • Watch the 'Malta G.C.' documentary to gain insight into the bravery and resilience of the Maltese people.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully experience the museum and its exhibits.
  • Check the official website for online ticket discounts and special offers.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus number 2, 3, or 4 towards Birgu. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Get off at the bus stop in Birgu, which is a short walk to the Couvre Porte Counterguard where the museum is located. A single bus ticket costs €2.

  • Ferry

    Take the ferry from Lascaris Wharf in Valletta's Grand Harbour to the Three Cities. From the ferry terminal in Birgu, it's a short walk to the Malta at War Museum. The ferry offers scenic views of the Grand Harbour. A round-trip ferry ticket costs around €2.80.

  • Walking

    From the Birgu Waterfront, walk inland towards the Couvre Porte area. The museum is located at the entrance to the city, within the counterguard. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and involves a slight incline.

  • Taxi

    From any point in Malta, a taxi can take you directly to the Malta at War Museum in Birgu. A taxi from Valletta to Birgu typically costs between €16-€20 and takes around 15 minutes. Parking is available near the Birgu marina, but can be limited. Parking along Triq San Lawrenz may have time limits.

Discover more about Malta at War Museum

Located in Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, the Malta at War Museum stands as a powerful testament to the Maltese people's bravery during World War II. Birgu, a historic maritime city, served as the first convent of the Knights of St. John and later as a Royal Navy home, making it a strategic point and a frequent target during the war.The museum is set within an 18th-century army barracks that once functioned as a police station and an air raid precautions center. Beneath the barracks lies a vast, restored rock-cut air raid shelter where hundreds sought refuge during the intense bombings. This shelter is now an integral part of the museum experience, offering visitors a glimpse into the wartime conditions endured by the Maltese.The Malta at War Museum features a rich collection of wartime artifacts, including personal items, documents, medals, uniforms, and weaponry. Visitors can immerse themselves in the period through newsreels, interactive exhibits, and multilingual audio guides. A highlight is the screening of 'Malta G.C.,' the first documentary made on the island, which King George VI commissioned to showcase Malta's extraordinary courage. Narrated by Sir Laurence Olivier, the film immortalizes the Maltese spirit during the siege.

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