National War Museum - Fort St Elmo — Attraction in Valletta

A Must-Visit for History Enthusiasts – National War Museum at Fort St Elmo

Situated at the northern tip of Valletta, the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo offers a fascinating journey through Malta’s military history. The fort itself, originally built in the 16th century, is an architectural gem, and it provides the perfect backdrop for the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.

The museum’s displays span from the Bronze Age to Malta’s more recent history, with a strong focus on World War II. Some of the most iconic exhibits include the Gloster Sea Gladiator 'Faith', the only surviving plane from Malta’s defense against Italy in 1940, and the 'Husky' Willys Jeep, famously used by both Presidents Eisenhower and Roosevelt during World War II. The George Cross Medal, awarded to the entire Maltese population in 1942 for their bravery during the war, is also a powerful highlight.

The museum also features military armor from the Knights of St John and the Ottoman Turks, as well as remnants of weapons and aircraft, offering a comprehensive view of Malta's martial past.

Beyond the exhibits, visitors can enjoy the fort's impressive architecture, including its two chapels dedicated to St Anne. The museum also brings history to life with engaging audiovisual displays, illustrating Malta’s wartime resilience, particularly during the German bombardments.

For anyone interested in military history or Malta’s rich past, a visit to the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo is a deeply educational and moving experience. It’s not just about artifacts; it’s about understanding the bravery and spirit of a people who withstood...

Our visit to the National War Museum in Valletta was one of the highlights of our trip to Malta. As a family of four, including two teenagers (17 and 13), we were all thoroughly impressed by the depth of the exhibits and the quality of the tour.

The museum is housed within the historic Fort St. Elmo, which immediately sets the tone for an immersive journey through Malta’s military history. The exhibits are extremely well-curated, covering everything from the Knights of St. John to Malta’s crucial role in World War II. The artifacts on display—including wartime vehicles, weaponry, and uniforms—are accompanied by detailed explanations that provide context, even for those who may not be well-versed in military history.

One of the most memorable parts of the experience was seeing the George Cross, which was awarded to the people of Malta for their bravery during WWII. It’s a powerful testament to the island’s resilience and strategic importance during the war. The museum also does a great job of integrating multimedia presentations, which helped bring historical events to life and kept our teenagers engaged.

If there’s one small thing we would have changed, it would be having a bit more time to explore at a more relaxed pace. There’s so much to see, and we occasionally felt like we had to move quickly to take it all in. However, this is more of a personal preference than a critique, as the museum offers a truly comprehensive experience.

Overall, we highly recommend the National War Museum to anyone visiting Valletta. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Malta’s past, this museum is an...

Pros:

• Impressive Architecture and Historical Significance: Fort St Elmo is one of the most striking buildings in Valletta. Its strategic position at the tip of the peninsula made it crucial in Malta’s defense during the Great Siege of 1565 and World War II. The star-shaped fort has been meticulously restored and offers a fascinating look into Malta’s military past . • National War Museum: The fort houses the National War Museum, which showcases over 7,000 years of Malta’s military history, from the Bronze Age to World War II. Highlights include the famous Gloster Sea Gladiator “Faith” and the George Cross awarded to Malta . • Scenic Views: The fort offers breathtaking views of both the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour, making it a fantastic spot for photography . • Event Venue: Fort St Elmo regularly hosts a variety of events and exhibitions, such as military reenactments and the annual Mediterranean Literature Festival .

Cons:

• Limited Access for Some Areas: While much of the fort has been restored, certain parts of the lower fort remain inaccessible to the public . • Some Parking Difficulties: Like many places in Valletta, finding parking nearby can be a bit challenging, so plan accordingly .

Summary: Fort St Elmo is a must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in Malta’s military heritage. The beautifully restored fort offers a rich and immersive experience through its exhibitions and scenic surroundings. While parking might be tricky, the fort’s historical importance and striking views make it well...