Siege Bell War Memorial
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At noon everyday the siege bell tolls to remind us of the sacrifice Malta did for our freedom. The War siege memorial stands next to the Lower Barrakka Gardens, and is a tribute to the 7000 soldiers and civilians the fell on Malta during the three year siege as well as to them that stood firm during this time and most probably changed the outcome of the war. The siege was finally broken with the arrival in August of 1942 of 14 Merchant Navy ships, escorted by the largest and most powerful escort the British fleet had ever assembled in what became known as Operation Pedestal. Only five of these ships eventually limped into Grand Harbour, rescuing Malta from starvation. As many as 400 Allied troops lost their lives in that operation. Malta’s defiance and courage during World War II were already acknowledged by King George VI when he awarded the island the George Cross “to bear witness to a heroism and devotion that will long be famous in history”. The inscription on the bell reads Obumbrasti Super Caput Meum In Di Belli MCMXL - MCMXLIII which translates to “You cast thy shadow upon my head during the time of war 1940-1943”.
Rick JonssonRick Jonsson
20
the Siege Bell Memorial is a simple monument symbolising the plight of the many people who fought and died for Malta during the Second World War. It was built in 1992 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of when Malta received the George Cross for the display of bravery and valour shown during the attacks on the island from 1940-42. Axis powers had attempted to seize the island to use as their base. The day after war was declared, the Italian Airforce launched a ruthless attack on Malta. The island would soon become the most bombed place during the Second World War, with more than 7000 soldiers and civilians being killed. The belfry surrounds a heavy bronze bell that is embellished with an image of Madonna in flame. At its base, one will notice commemorative plaques and a staircase leading to another pedestal where a catafalque lies. There, visitors can see a statue dedicated to the ‘Unknown Soldier’, symbolising all the people who died at war. A Latin phrase referencing Psalm 140 is inscribed on the memorial tablet, which reads: “You cast thy shadow upon my head during the time of war 1940-1943”.
antonios varzakisantonios varzakis
30
Poignant reminder of what the people of Malta had to go through during the war. This island was pivotal in winning the war in north Africa and launching the subsequent Sicily invasion. Because of its proximity to both, the Germans also understood it's importance as it held out for over a year being bombed almost every day. With the people living underground during a lot of this time. The island was an important base is keeping allied supply lines open, and the Maltese people kept the ports and airfields open, during constant bombardment. This little island helped win the war, and this is a small reminder of its people's spirit. The view over the harbour is the perfect location.
Dave TDave T
10
Overlooking the Grand Harbour entrance from the north-eastern side of Valletta, the Siege Bell War Memorial is a solemn reminder of the hardships endured by Malta during WWII. A key strategic outpost for the battle of the Mediterranean, Malta was continually bombed between 1940 and 1943 with more than 7,000 civilians and servicemen and women killed. The "Siege of Malta" took place between February and June 1942 with only 2 of 24 merchant vessels arriving safely with supplies amidst 154 days of constant bombing. Each day at noon the bell tolls in remembrance. The site also offers panoramic views of the Grand Harbor.
StevenSteven
20
You can see great views of the Grand Harbor from this point. There will be lots of steep downhill side streets that you’ll need to take if coming from the center of Valletta, but well worth the walk. When you arrive, climb the steps to the top of the memorial and stand south of the bell to see the best views the place has to offer. You’ll also be able to get a good view of outside of the Valletta peninsula as well.
Herbert CarrollHerbert Carroll
40
The monument was designed by Michael Sandle, a prolific and important sculptor worldwide and assembled on the initiative of the George Cross Island Association to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the presentation of this award to Malta. The Valletta Rehabilitation Project, under the headship of its chief executive officer and coordinator Ray Bondin, was responsible for its construction.
Ieva MikosaIeva Mikosa
10
Nearby Attractions Of Siege Bell War Memorial
Upper Barrakka
Upper Barrakka Gardens
Triton Fountain
St. John's Co-Cathedral
City Gate
Valletta City Gate
Lower Barrakka
Lower Barrakka Gardens
National War Museum - Fort St Elmo
Is-Suq Tal-Belt - Valletta Food Market
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Upper Barrakka Gardens
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Triton Fountain
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St. John's Co-Cathedral
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Nearby Restaurants Of Siege Bell War Memorial
Caffe Cordina
Sotto Pinsa Romana Valletta
San Paolo Naufrago
Zero Sei Trattoria Romana
Nenu The Artisan Baker Valletta
AKI
Palazzo Preca Restaurant
Rampila Restaurant
La Pira Maltese Kitchen
Sally Port Pizzeria
Caffe Cordina
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Sotto Pinsa Romana Valletta
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San Paolo Naufrago
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32 Lvant, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
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thesaintjohnmalta.com
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attractions: Upper Barrakka, Upper Barrakka Gardens, Triton Fountain, St. John's Co-Cathedral, City Gate, Valletta City Gate, Lower Barrakka, Lower Barrakka Gardens, National War Museum - Fort St Elmo, Is-Suq Tal-Belt - Valletta Food Market, restaurants: Caffe Cordina, Sotto Pinsa Romana Valletta, San Paolo Naufrago, Zero Sei Trattoria Romana, Nenu The Artisan Baker Valletta, AKI, Palazzo Preca Restaurant, Rampila Restaurant, La Pira Maltese Kitchen, Sally Port Pizzeria
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