Fort St Elmo — Attraction in Valletta

FORT ST ELMO/NAT WAR MUSEUM, MALTA

Spend your time as leisurely and lavishly as you like to take in stuff from the Bronze Age, the Knights who left Cyprus arriving in Malta, to more modern times as regards to war, defence and the people who lived through those ages.

The fort is named in honour of the patron saint of Mediterranean navigators, says “MyMalta.guide”. The sculpture to one side of the entrance, medieval knights in armour; whether by limitation of shape of material used; a left handed swordsman stood with his fellow knights, caught my eye. Yet, I chuckled to think in those days people knew of lefthandedness and accommodated it. In my school days my knuckles suffered for writing with my left. Just inside is a chapel dedicated to St Anne. Take a few to reflect the human familial line of the Holy Family. Anne and her husband, maternal grandparents. Reflecting on what we know about the devout well-to-do Anne and Joachim before Mary was born, the planning and putting together by the “Powers-that-Be” from which came Master Jesus!

The site is light and airy today as if freed from the yoke of its built. The limestone walls are very clean, very thick. The eye of Ra, has been restored above the entrance, a reminder of its once-upon-a-time fierce militant purpose.

Much panoramic views to be had of sea and surrounding harbour and town or observe the scudding oversize cottonwool clouds above. Bear in mind, parking is abit difficult, thus may take time/effort to walk there. But once there, there is the reassurance of the usual conveniences and amenities as well as an elevator and ramp for those...

Known as Malta’s star Fort, this architectural masterpiece is best known for the starring role it played during the Great Siege.

Situated in Valletta and boasting magnificent views of the Grand Harbour, Fort St Elmo is a treasure trove of artefacts, military paraphernalia, and insights into Malta’s rich history. Built by the Knights in 1552 in just four months, this majestic fort bore the brunt of Ottoman arms during the Great Siege of Malta. It also received its fair share of bombardment during World War ll. Within the Fort’s majestic walls is a chapel, the resting place of knights who fought to the death whilst protecting the altar of the Chapel of St. Anne, during the Great Siege. The Fort is also home to the magnificent National War Museum, where one can see the George Cross, as well as aircraft wreckage, weapons, and various military vehicles. Not just a military fiend’s utopia, the Fort is a must-see for anyone wishing to be dazzled by architectural splendour, and those wishing to immerse themselves in Malta’s vast...

Fort St. Elmo, positioned at the strategic harbors of Marsamxett and Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta, holds a significant place in Maltese history. Constructed in 1552 by the Knights of St. John, the fort was pivotal during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, withstanding Ottoman forces for a month. Over the centuries, it underwent various upgrades, especially under British rule to enhance its military capabilities. It experienced the first aerial bombardment of Malta in 1940, marking its importance during World War II. Today, it is home to the National War Museum, showcasing extensive military artifacts including those from the Order of St John and the Ottoman Turks, and features the George Cross awarded to Malta. Recently restored, Fort St. Elmo is now a cultural venue and a testament to Malta's resilience and historical...