Great Siege Monument: A Symbol of Maltese Resilience

Commemorating Malta's Great Siege of 1565, this iconic Valletta monument symbolizes faith, fortitude, and civilization.

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Great Siege Monument

The Great Siege Monument in Valletta commemorates the Great Siege of 1565, a pivotal event in Maltese history. Sculpted by Antonio Sciortino and inaugurated in 1927, the monument features three bronze figures representing Faith, Fortitude, and Civilization. It stands as a testament to the Maltese people's strength and resilience.

A brief summary to Great Siege Monument

Valletta, MT

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and have the best light for photography.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of Valletta to explore more historical sites nearby.
Take a moment to reflect on the monument's historical and cultural significance, as well as its more recent role as a memorial to Daphne Caruana Galizia.

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Getting There

Walking

The Great Siege Monument is centrally located in Valletta, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the city. From City Gate (the main entrance to Valletta), walk straight along Republic Street. The monument is located on the left side of the street, next to St. John's Co-Cathedral. There are no costs associated with walking to the monument.
Public Transport

Valletta's main bus terminal is located just outside City Gate. From the terminal, walk straight along Republic Street. The monument will be on your left, next to St. John's Co-Cathedral. A single bus ride costs €1.50 in winter and €2.00 in summer. Consider purchasing a Tallinja Explore Card for unlimited travel if you plan to use public transport frequently.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are readily available throughout Malta. Simply enter 'Great Siege Monument, Valletta' as your destination. A short taxi ride within Valletta typically costs between €8-€15. Note that traffic within Valletta can be congested, especially during peak hours.

Discover more about Great Siege Monument

The Great Siege Monument, also known as the Monument to the Fallen of the Great Siege, is a significant landmark in Valletta, Malta. It commemorates the Great Siege of 1565, when the Knights of St. John and the Maltese people bravely defended the island against the Ottoman forces. The monument is located in Great Siege Square, along Republic Street, near St. John's Co-Cathedral. The monument, created by Maltese sculptor Antonio Sciortino, was cast in bronze in Rome and inaugurated on May 8, 1927. The three bronze figures atop a granite base symbolize Faith, Fortitude (or Valour), and Civilization – qualities attributed to the Maltese during the siege. The monument's design reflects a Neoclassical style with avant-garde elements. Over the years, the Great Siege Monument has become one of the most emblematic sculptures on the island. It has appeared on Maltese stamps and coins, signifying its cultural importance. In recent years, the monument has also served as a memorial to journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was assassinated in 2017, becoming a symbol of resistance against corruption.

Explore the best of what Great Siege Monument has to offer

Discover the Great Siege Monument, a historical landmark in Valletta celebrating Malta's resilience and rich heritage from the Great Siege of 1565.

Discover the Great Siege Monument in Valletta, a majestic tribute to the Knights of St. John's bravery during the 1565 siege, rich in history and culture.