National War Museum

The National War Museum in Valletta, Malta, is one of the island’s most important historical museums, focusing on Malta’s military history, with particular emphasis on its role in World War II. Situated within the Fort St. Elmo complex, which dates back to the 16th century, the museum offers a deep dive into the island’s strategic significance over the centuries, especially during wartime.

National War Museum

Lower Fort St Elmo

Spur Street

Valletta VLT 1741

Malta

http://heritagemalta.org/museums-sites/National-war-museum/

+356 21 222 430

Daily 09:00 – 17:00

Closed: 24, 25, 31 December, 1 January and Good Friday

Admission fee

Aircraft collection

Gloster Sea Gladiator II
N5520Gloster Sea Gladiator II

In 1940 some Royal Navy Sea Gladiators stored in Malta were taken on charge by the RAF for the island’s defence. They became famous as Faith, Hope and Charity, though there were more than three. N5520, which became identified as “Faith” at some point during its active life, was the only survivor — albeit in skeleton form.

Gloster Sea Gladiator II
Gloster Sea Gladiator II N5520 Royal Navy picture Ruud Boots

Key Features of the National War Museum:

  1. Historical Significance:
    • The War Museum is housed in Fort St. Elmo, a historic military fortification that has played a central role in Malta’s defense since its construction by the Knights of St. John. The fort itself is a symbol of Malta’s military past, especially notable for its involvement during the Great Siege of Malta (1565), where the Knights Hospitaller successfully defended the island against the Ottoman Empire.
    • Throughout its history, the fort has been a base for military operations, particularly during World War II, when it was at the heart of the Siege of Malta by the Axis forces, which became one of the most dramatic chapters in Malta’s history.
  2. World War II Exhibits:
    • A central focus of the National War Museum is Malta’s pivotal role in World War II, particularly during the Siege of Malta (1940-1943), when the island was heavily bombed by Axis powers, but still managed to become an important base for the Allied forces in the Mediterranean.
    • The museum showcases the aerial bombardment, defense efforts, and resilience of the Maltese people during the siege. Many of the exhibits relate to the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Royal Navy operations conducted from Malta, as well as the Axis attacks that caused significant damage to the island’s infrastructure and civilian areas.
    • The George Cross, awarded to the people of Malta by King George VI in 1942 for their courage and bravery, is prominently displayed in the museum. This prestigious decoration is a testament to the island’s fortitude during the war.
  3. Aircraft and Military Equipment:
    • The museum features a range of military artifacts, including items from World War II and earlier conflicts. This includes planes, uniforms, weapons, and military vehicles used during the war.
    • Aircraft models, like those used by the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, and a collection of weapons and ammunition used by the Allied and Axis forces are exhibited. Key artifacts include a Hawker Hurricane fighter aircraft and a Supermarine Spitfire, both of which played major roles in the defense of Malta.
    • There are also military naval artifacts, including models of ships and naval guns, reflecting Malta’s importance as a naval base.
  4. Displays of Malta’s Military History:
    • The museum’s collection spans Malta’s military history from the time of the Knights of St. John through to the British colonial period and into the modern era.
    • Exhibits provide insights into Malta’s strategic position in the Mediterranean and its role in various conflicts, such as the Napoleonic Wars, the First and Second World Wars, and later peacekeeping operations and defense commitments as part of the British Commonwealth.
  5. The Siege of Malta:
    • One of the museum’s most important themes is the Siege of Malta (1940-1943), during which the island endured constant aerial bombardment, but was never captured by Axis forces. The museum illustrates the intense air raids, the daily lives of civilians and military personnel, and the defensive strategies employed.
    • The Battle of Malta is a key component of the exhibit, including detailed dioramas, models, and films showing the heroic efforts of both the Maltese population and the Allied forces in defending the island against overwhelming odds.
  6. Post-War and Contemporary Exhibits:
    • Although the museum has a strong focus on World War II, it also covers Malta’s post-war military history, including its independence from Britain in 1964 and its role in subsequent conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
    • There are exhibits on the Cold War period and Malta’s eventual neutrality in the 1970s, which led to the departure of British forces from the island.
  7. Educational Programs and Guided Tours:
    • The museum offers guided tours, providing in-depth explanations about the exhibits and the historical context of the items on display. These tours are especially helpful for understanding Malta’s significant military role in the 20th century.
    • Educational programs are available for schools, students, and military history enthusiasts. These programs are designed to engage visitors with the history of the island’s defense and its contribution to global events.