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Malta at War Museum: A Chronicle of Courage

Experience Malta's WWII history firsthand in an authentic air raid shelter and 18th-century barracks. A moving tribute to Maltese courage.

4.6

The Malta at War Museum in Birgu (Vittoriosa) vividly portrays the Maltese people's resilience during the WWII Malta Blitz (1940-1943). Housed in an authentic 18th-century army barracks and police station, the museum features a restored underground air raid shelter, offering a compelling glimpse into wartime life.

A brief summary to Malta at War Museum

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online for a more affordable and convenient visit. On-site ticket purchases are card-only.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions in Birgu, such as Fort St. Angelo and the Inquisitor's Palace, to make the most of your trip.
  • Consider a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the museum's exhibits and the history of Malta during WWII.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Valletta, take bus line 2 or 3 directly to Birgu. The bus stop is located just outside the Couvre Porte Gate, where the museum is located. A single bus ticket costs €2.50.

  • Ferry

    Take the Valletta Ferry from Lascaris Wharf to Birgu. From the Birgu Ferry Landing, follow the signs towards the city center; the museum is approximately a 10-minute walk. Ferry tickets cost around €2.80 for a single trip. From the ferry stop it is a short walk up hill to the Birgu center and the museum.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from most locations in Malta. A taxi from Valletta to Birgu will cost approximately €16-€20 and take around 15 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Car

    Drive towards Birgu (Vittoriosa) following signs to Cottonera (Three Cities). The museum is located at the Couvre Porte Gate, the original entrance to the city. Parking is available near the Birgu Marina. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €4-€5 for a flat rate.

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Discover more about Malta at War Museum

The Malta at War Museum, located in the historic city of Birgu, provides a powerful and immersive experience, documenting the extraordinary ordeal endured by the Maltese during the Second World War. Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, served as the first convent of the Knights of St. John and a vital naval base, making it a prime target during the conflict. The museum is set within an 18th-century army barracks that functioned as a police station and air raid precautions center during the war. Beneath the barracks lies a vast, rock-cut air raid shelter, now restored, where hundreds sought refuge from the relentless bombings. This shelter is an integral part of the museum experience, offering a visceral understanding of the conditions faced by civilians during the war. The museum's collection includes a wide array of artifacts and memorabilia, from personal items and documents to uniforms, medals, and weaponry. Visitors can view period newsreels and listen to authentic sounds, further immersing themselves in the wartime atmosphere. A highlight is the screening of 'Malta G.C.,' the first documentary ever made about the island, narrated by Sir Laurence Olivier. This film, commissioned by King George VI, showcases the bravery of the Maltese people, who were awarded the George Cross for their valor. The Malta at War Museum offers a profound and educational experience, honoring the courage and sacrifice of the Maltese people during one of the most challenging periods in their history.

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