WWII Shelters, Fawwara Area Travel Guide

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Explore hand-carved WWII tunnels in Mellieħa, Malta, and discover the poignant stories of survival and resilience during the island's darkest hours.

Delve into the heart of Malta's WWII history at the Mellieħa air raid shelters. These hand-carved tunnels offered refuge to thousands during intense bombings and now serve as a poignant museum, showcasing the resilience of the Maltese people.

A brief summary to WWII Shelters

X966+2G8, Triq il-Kappillan Magri, Mellieħa, MT
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Monday 9 am-3 pm
Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
Thursday 9 am-3 pm
Friday 9 am-3 pm
Saturday 9 am-3 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season, for a more intimate experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the tunnels involve walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring a light jacket as the temperature inside the shelters can be cooler than outside.
Check the local bus schedule in advance for the most up-to-date times and fares.

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Explore WWII Shelters on the Map

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Valletta, take bus route 41 or 42 towards Mellieħa. Alight at the 'Mellieha' bus stop, which is a short walk from the shelters. From Saint Julian's, take bus 222 to Mellieha. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2-3.
Walking

The WWII Shelters are located on a stairway between Misraħ il-Parroċċa and Triq Il-Marfa in the historic center of Mellieħa. From Pope John Paul II Square, walk along Triq il-Kappillan Magri; the shelters will be on your right. The walk is short but involves some steps.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. A taxi from the Mellieha Bay area to the WWII Shelters will cost approximately €15-€20. Ensure the driver uses a meter or agree on a fare beforehand.
Driving

If driving, head towards Mellieħa. From the main road, follow signs for Mellieħa. Once in town, look for Triq il-Kappillan Magri. Parking is available along Misraħ il-Parroċċa. Parking is free.

Discover more about WWII Shelters

The Mellieħa WWII Shelters offer a compelling glimpse into civilian life during the relentless bombings of Malta in World War II. Dug entirely by hand, the shelter complex stretches over 500 meters beneath the town, making it one of the largest in Malta.As the Axis powers unleashed their aerial attacks, the existing natural caves and man-made tunnels proved insufficient. In July 1941, the people of Mellieħa began excavating these rock-cut shelters to protect themselves and refugees from other parts of the island. The tunnels included private rooms for families, a maternity hospital, and even a secure area for national treasures.Today, the shelters function as a museum, providing an immersive and educational experience. Visitors can explore the intricate network of tunnels and chambers, gaining insight into the daily lives of those who sought refuge within. The museum displays tools used to dig the shelters, gas masks, and ammunition, further enriching the experience. The Mellieħa WWII Shelters stand as a symbol of Malta's strength and determination during one of its most challenging periods.