Fort Manoel, Fawwara Area Travel Guide

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Explore Fort Manoel: A historic star fort on Manoel Island offering stunning views and a glimpse into Malta's military past.

Fort Manoel, an 18th-century star fort on Manoel Island in Gżira, Malta, offers visitors a glimpse into the island's military history and Baroque architecture. Built by the Knights of Saint John, the fort commands Marsamxett Harbour and has served various military purposes, including during the French invasion and World War II.

A brief summary to Fort Manoel

WG34+732 Manoel Island, Gżira, MT
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Manoel.

Check the official website for updated opening hours and event schedules, as they may vary.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's grounds and ramparts.
Take advantage of the free guided tours to learn about the fort's history and architecture.

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Explore Fort Manoel on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fort Manoel, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Gżira, cross the Manoel Island bridge. Once on the island, follow the road towards the fort. The walk from the bridge to the fort is approximately 15 minutes. Note that the island is undergoing development, but access to the fort is maintained.
Public Transport

Take bus routes 13, 14, 16, or 233 to the 'Vilhena' bus stop in Gżira. From there, walk across the Manoel Island bridge and follow the road to the fort, approximately a 15-minute walk. A single bus fare costs €2.
Taxi

From Valletta, a taxi to Fort Manoel costs approximately €15-€20 and takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Ask the driver to take you to Manoel Island and drop you off near the Fort.

Discover more about Fort Manoel

Fort Manoel, a magnificent star-shaped fort, graces Manoel Island in Gżira, Malta, standing as a testament to 18th-century military engineering and Baroque architecture. Constructed by the Knights of Saint John during the reign of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, the fort was named in his honor and designed to protect Valletta's northern bastions.The fort's design, attributed to René Jacob de Tigné and Charles François de Mondion, features a square layout with four pentagonal bastions forming a star shape. These bastions—St. Helen, St. Anthony, St. John, and Notre Dame—contributed to the fort's formidable defenses. A parade ground, quadrangle, and arcade once housed 500 soldiers within its walls.Fort Manoel has witnessed Malta's turbulent history, first seeing action during the French invasion of 1798. It later served as a British military site, sustaining damage during World War II. Decommissioned in 1964, the fort fell into disrepair before undergoing extensive restoration in the early 21st century. Today, it stands as a beautifully restored historical site, open to the public and hosting cultural events.Visitors can explore the fort's bastions, ramparts, and historical rooms, enjoying panoramic views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour. The fort also gained recognition for its role as the Great Sept of Baelor in the first season finale of Game of Thrones.