Malta Maritime Museum: A Voyage Through Malta's Seafaring History
Explore 7000 years of naval history at Malta Maritime Museum, housed in a former Royal Naval Bakery on the Birgu waterfront.
The Malta Maritime Museum, located in Birgu (Vittoriosa), Malta, offers a deep dive into the island's extensive naval history. Situated within the historic Old Royal Naval Bakery, constructed in the 1840s, the museum showcases over 20,000 artifacts that illustrate Malta's maritime story from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum's building itself has a rich history, initially serving as a galley arsenal for the Knights of St. John. Later, it was transformed into the Royal Naval Bakery, supplying bread and provisions to the British Royal Navy's Mediterranean Fleet. The museum officially opened in 1992, displaying a vast collection of items donated by Maltese citizens, international maritime and naval museums, and foreign navies. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing shipbuilding, navigation, and the roles of various navies, including the British Navy during both World Wars. Highlights include a 4-ton Roman anchor, a collection of over sixty boats, and the Napoleonic figurehead from the HMS Hibernia. The museum also delves into civilian and naval life, showcasing the experiences of seafarers at work and leisure. Currently, the museum is undergoing a major redesign to create a world-class cultural and educational space, aiming to provide a fresh perspective on Malta's relationship with the sea.
Local tips
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Fort St. Angelo for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Photography is permitted, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the artifacts.
A brief summary to Malta Maritime Museum
- St Angelo Mansions, Ex-Naval Bakery Vittoriosa Waterfront, Il - Habs L - Antik, Birgu, BRG 1721, MT
- +35621660052
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Valletta, take bus route 2 or 4 towards Birgu. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes, and the bus stop is a short walk from the museum. A single journey bus ticket costs €2.50 in the summer.
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Ferry
Alternatively, take the Valletta Ferry from Lascaris Wharf to Cospicua Dockyard Creek. The ferry crossing takes about 15 minutes and costs €2. From the ferry terminal in Cospicua, it's a short walk to the Malta Maritime Museum in Birgu.
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Taxi
A taxi from Malta International Airport to Birgu costs approximately €16-€20 and takes about 9 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the airport. From Valletta to the Malta Maritime Museum, a taxi ride is around 11 minutes.
