HISTORY & CULTURE

Explore Malta's rich and lavish history, culture and traditions

Night at the Museum

Experience Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum like never before! The site will come alive during special extended hours from 7.00pm to 10.30pm, with re-enactors bringing history to life in every corner of the museum. Travel back in time through Roman, Medieval, and Early Modern eras, right up to the French occupation of Malta and World War II.You’ll get to wander through the impressive grounds of the fort, take in the stunning architecture of the two chapels dedicated to St Anne, and discover seven sections of the National War Museum covering 7,000 years of Maltese Military History. Don’t miss your chance to see notable artefacts like the Gloster Sea Gladiator N5520 FAITH, Willys Jeep ‘Husky’ used by both Eisenhower and Roosevelt, and Malta’s award for gallantry, the George Cross. Get your tickets at the door. For more information visit heritagemalta.mt

Fort St Elmo Valletta, Malta

In Guardia Parade

Built during the 18th century, the villa became the residence of Sir John Hookham Frere, an English diplomat and poet of considerable repute. Following the death of his wife in1831, Frere built extensive terraced gardens on the rear of the property which was previously garrigue. The garden was built up through excavation and construction of terraces and some 13 wells were dug to irrigate the area. The garden was adorned by a number of garden follies in the traditional english style. The gardens contain a number of rare architectural features, more importantly are the exedra built at the highest level of the gardens which is referred to as a ‘tempietto’, a belvedere and a blind arcade. These botanic gardens also have two rural structures, arched reservoirs, covered passages, staircases and ponds. NGO Friends of Villa Frere has been working hard to protect the remains and to restore the gardens with life. In 2020, the historical site was given the highest level of protection by the Planning Authority in consultation with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage. for more information visit heritagmalta.

The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment of an authentic event that took place regularly inside important military fortifications in Malta and Gozo during the time of the Knights of St John. The re-enactment portrays the inspection of the garrison of the Palace by the Grand Bailiff in charge of military affairs.

Fort St. Elmo, Valletta, Malta

As you stroll through the narrow streets of Cittadella in Gozo, you'll be surrounded by the soft glow of over 30,000 candles in all shapes and sizes. Additionally, carefully decorated artefacts will be set around the fortified city. The magical atmosphere created by the flickering lights offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Gozo's hills, valleys, villages, and churches, as well as a stunning view across the sea to Malta. The festival offers a range of activities for everyone to enjoy, including historic re-enactments, extended and discounted museum entrances, opening of other public venues of interest, live entertainment on stage and around the city, together with children's activities Admission is free, so bring your friends and family for a night to remember.

Ta’ Bistra Catacombs Monthly Opening

Ta’ Bistra Catacombs will be welcoming the general public every last Sunday of the month. Opening hours are from 10:0016:00.

Located half way between the ancient town of Melite and the once-important harbour of Salina, Ta’ Bistra Catacombs are, so far, the largest set of tombs and catacombs beyond the confines of the ancient city of the island. They were first recorded in the late 1800s but were only investigated in 1933 by Captain Charles Zammit, before part of the site was covered over by a new road leading down to Burmarrad. Further studies in 2004, 2013, and 2014, have brought the site back to life with new discoveries and hence, new interpretations.