From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Fortress.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
The Fortress: A Historic Dining Experience in Xemxija
Dine in a 17th-century fortress with panoramic Xemxija Bay views. Experience culinary excellence and Maltese history in a unique setting.
The Fortress, located in Xemxija, Malta, is a restaurant housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century gun battery. Offering a blend of history, culinary excellence, and stunning views of Xemxija Bay, it provides a unique dining experience for both tourists and locals.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Fortress
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Discover more about The Fortress
Nestled in the picturesque Xemxija Bay, The Fortress offers a unique dining experience steeped in Maltese history. This restaurant is located within a beautifully restored 300-year-old gun battery, originally built in the 17th century by the Order of St. John as part of Malta's coastal defenses. Known also as Arrias Battery, it was strategically positioned to protect the coastline.Transformed into a modern dining venue, The Fortress retains its historic charm with cozy vaulted chambers and a spacious terrace overlooking the bay. Diners can enjoy diverse international flavors while surrounded by the echoes of Malta's past. The restaurant's setting provides an idyllic backdrop for romantic dinners, family gatherings, and special events.Xemxija itself is a suburb in St. Paul's Bay, known for its archaeological sites and fertile valleys. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with remains of megalithic temples, Roman roads, and ancient tombs dotting the landscape. The Fortress stands as a testament to Malta's layered history, blending ancient fortifications with contemporary hospitality.
Explore places near The Fortress
Getting There
Public Transport
From St. Paul's Bay, take bus line 222 towards Xemxija. The bus ride is approximately 5 minutes, and the fare is €3. Alight at the Roti bus stop, a short walk from The Fortress.
Walking
From the Xemxija Bay area, The Fortress is easily accessible by foot. Follow Telghet ix-Xemxija uphill; the restaurant will be on your left.
Taxi
A taxi from St. Paul's Bay to The Fortress will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic and the specific location within St. Paul's Bay. The journey takes around 5 minutes.
A brief summary to The Fortress
Use The Fortress as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the 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 Central Region
Explore Malta's Central Region: A vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity with Valletta, Mdina, and charming towns, perfect for an enriching visitor experience.
Tell me more about Central Region
