Fort St Elmo: from the Great Siege to the George Cross.
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At the tip of Valletta, the star-shaped Fort St Elmo holds Malta's National War Museum, telling 7,000 years of conflict on the islands – with the George Cross itself.
The medal King George VI gave to the whole island of Malta in 1942.
Fort St Elmo fell in 1565 after a month of fighting – but bought the time that saved Malta.
Faith, the last surviving Gloster Gladiator of the three that defended Malta's skies, and the Santa Marija convoy.
Six things to look for. Works sometimes move, so ask at the desk.
The medal and the king's letter: 'To honour her brave people'.
Second World War galleriesThe Gloster Gladiator biplane that fought over Malta in 1940.
Second World War galleriesWalls and views over both harbours.
Upper St ElmoThe old church inside the fort, with the knights' carvings.
Lower St ElmoTap a button and we’ll give you a plan.
Walk the fort walls first, then follow the museum from prehistory to the Second World War.
On some days 'In Guardia', a parade of knights' soldiers, is held in the fort – check the programme.
Combine it with the Lascaris War Rooms across the city.
Find the old biplane Faith and count its wings. Then find a cannon and imagine the noise during the siege.
Mediterranean Street, Valletta VLT 1741, Malta
King George VI awarded it to the island fortress of Malta and its people.
Plan the visit, check the route and save National War Museum to your Culture Passport. Joining costs nothing.
My Culture Passport →Not going yet? Look through the photos and stories, discover the town and the museums nearby, and pay your admission online where the museum offers it.
Discover Valletta →This page costs the museum nothing, for small and large museums alike. Claim it to update the story, photos and exhibitions from your own dashboard.
Claim this page →Cafés, restaurants, shops and hotels near National War Museum can show up on this page for visitors who are planning their day.
Show your place here →National War Museum is in Valletta, Port Region, Malta. Address: Mediterranean Street, Valletta VLT 1741, Malta.
Pay your admission at the museum or on its own website. Opening hours and prices change, so check the museum’s website before you go.
It can be a lovely visit for you and your family. Ask the museum about activities for children, and combine the visit with the other museums of Valletta.
Combine your visit and plan the rest of your day.
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