Background

Victoria Lines: Malta's Great Wall

4.5 (1071)

Explore Malta's 'Great Wall': The Victoria Lines, a historic British defense system with stunning views and walking trails.

The Victoria Lines are a 12km-long series of fortifications built by the British military in the late 19th century, stretching across Malta along the Great Fault escarpment. Never tested in battle, they offer a fascinating glimpse into military engineering and stunning views of the island.

A brief summary to Victoria Lines

  • W93H+CGF, Rabat, MT
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 6 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if hiking the longer sections.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as the area offers little shade and can be exposed to the elements.
  • Consider starting your walk from the western end (Kuncizzjoni) to walk towards the busier side of the island for easier transport.
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Unlock the Best of Victoria Lines

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take a bus to Rabat. From the Rabat bus terminal, you can take the 109 bus towards Kuncizzjoni, which is near the western end of the Victoria Lines. Alternatively, from Rabat, a taxi can take you closer to a specific point along the lines. A single bus fare in Malta is around €2.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Rabat, you can walk to sections of the Victoria Lines. Follow Triq il-Kunsill tal-Ewropa towards Dingli, then Triq il-Fortizza. Sections of the lines are accessible from here. Be prepared for a walk of approximately 1-2 hours depending on the specific location you aim to reach from Rabat.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Malta, a taxi can take you to a specific point along the Victoria Lines. For example, a taxi from San Pawl il-Bahar to the Victoria Lines is approximately 7.9km and takes 11 minutes. Taxi fares vary, but a typical short trip may cost around €15-€25.

Discover more about Victoria Lines

The Victoria Lines, often called the Great Wall of Malta, represent a significant chapter in the island's military history. Constructed by the British between 1870 and 1899, these fortifications span 12 kilometers, dividing the island and utilizing the natural barrier of the Great Fault. The lines were designed to protect the Grand Harbour, a vital naval base, from potential invaders landing in the north.The Victoria Lines consist of forts, batteries, entrenchments, and connecting infantry lines. Fort Madliena, Fort Mosta, and Fort Bingemma are the major forts along the line. Although never tested in battle, the Victoria Lines provide insight into 19th-century military strategy and offer panoramic views of the Maltese countryside.Today, the Victoria Lines are a popular destination for hikers and history enthusiasts. While some sections have crumbled over time, others remain remarkably intact, offering a tangible connection to Malta's past. Walking trails along the lines provide a unique way to experience the landscape and appreciate the strategic importance of this historical site.
Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Blue Grotto

File:Blue Grotto Malta.jpg - Wikipedia

Discover the enchanting Blue Grotto in Malta, where crystal-clear waters and ancient sea caverns create a breathtaking natural wonder steeped in history and folklore.

Tell me more about Blue Grotto

Select Currency