Palace Armoury: A Knight's Tale

The Palace Armoury in Valletta is a captivating journey into the world of the Knights of St. John, offering a glimpse into their military prowess and rich history. Housed within the Grandmaster's Palace, this remarkable collection showcases one of the world's most extensive displays of arms and armor in its original building.Originally established in 1604, the Armoury served as the main arsenal of the Order of St. John during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was strategically located within the Grandmaster's Palace by Alof de Wignacourt to store enough arms and armor for thousands of soldiers. The collection was later rearranged in the 18th century under Manuel Pinto da Fonseca.Today, the Palace Armoury displays a wide array of authentic arms and armor with Italian, German, French, and Spanish origins. Among the highlights are parade armors of Grand Masters, the Italian Sallet, and various swords, firearms, and artillery pieces. The collection also features captured Ottoman arms from the Great Siege of Malta in 1565.The Armoury provides a unique opportunity to witness a working arsenal that has survived in its original building. It stands as a testament to the military and cultural heritage of Malta and the Mediterranean region during the time of the Knights.