The Knights of Malta Museum

The Knights of Malta is a unique series of expertly captured scenes from the original tales of the life and times of the Crusader Knights. Discover how, in 1530, Grand Master L’Isle Adam entered the gates of the fortified city of Mdina, bringing the past to life with a creative achievement produced by special effects and dramatic lighting that depicts the energy of those who lived, fought, and died in bygone centuries—a truly extraordinary experience that is exciting for all ages. Piracy and the terrors of siege are part of our history. Here is an opportunity for adults and children alike to relive the terrors and the joys of the Knights of Malta’s days of glory. Anyone stepping inside the front door at “Casa Magazzini” simply travels back in time. Discover the visual, three-dimensional chronicles, while a full narration in thirteen languages provides the rest of the historical details. The 34 tableaux cover a full spectrum of vignettes of life during the 200-year rule of the Knights of Malta over these islands. In a still-life pageant, full-size figures of the Knights and Grandmasters appear in their various roles. See them in conference with each other or alongside ordinary folks, and admire them in dramatic battle scenes or coping with disasters like the 1693 earthquake in Mdina. Feel their compassion as they offer their services to the sick in the order’s hospital. Admire their unique vision, which inspired them to work with the best architects and artists to build Valletta, the "city for gentlemen," and opulent monuments everywhere. Embark on an immersive journey through time to experience the reign of Malta’s powerful knights and their ottoman enemy. Simultaneous multilingual commentaries tell the story of an exhilarating voyage back through the ages. To bring the Knights of Malta back to life, not only were historic interiors reconstructed, but an impressive 3D digital audio-visual presentation was produced with the latest light and sound technology! The duration is approximately 40 minutes, which includes an introductory 3D digital audio-visual presentation and walkthrough.

Step back through the mists of time as you drive to the fortress of Cottonera, widely known as the Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Cospicua & Senglea, in one of the first two wooden-bodied buses! These cities were built and fortified by the Knights of Malta. Start off the day with a drive through Cospicua. Cospicua, inhabited since Neolithic times and ensconced mighty fortification walls. You will then visit Vittoriosa, rich with maritime, mercantile, and military history. Modern-day Vittoriosa features historic Vittoriosa Waterfront, the Palace of the General of the Galleys and the Order of St. John's treasury, and also the Malta Maritime Museum. The third city is the walled town of Senglea, joined by a land bridge to Cospicua during the time of the Knights of St. John. For many years, Senglea was used as a hunting area and was known as L'Isola di San Giuliano. A detailed English commentary by the driver will illuminate the history of Valletta and the Three Cities connected with two Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942.

Traverse from Freedom Square to the panoramic vistas of Barrakka Gardens, soaking in the splendor of Malta's Grand Harbour. Delve into the baroque magnificence of the Grandmaster's Palace, steeped in historical significance, before immersing yourself in the allure of the Grand Harbour, a Mediterranean gem of unparalleled beauty. As you wander Valletta's streets, your guide will unveil captivating narratives of the Knights of Malta, revealing cultural and architectural legacies. Ascend to the Upper Barrakka Gardens for sweeping harbor views, then navigate Merchant Street Market's architectural marvels. Explore the storied halls of Auberge d'Italie, former abode of the Knights, before concluding at St. George's Square, by the Grandmaster's Palace.

”One of the most concentrated historic areas in the world” – this is how Unesco World Heritage described Malta´s small capital. Founded by the Knights of St. John, Valletta is ”a city built by the gentlemen for the gentlemen ''. Visit the Palace Square, to admire the singing fountain and many local traditional horse-drawn carriages, called “karozzin”. Discover the St. John's Co-Cathedral, built by the Knights of Malta in the 16th century and more similar to a military fort than a church. Walk down the Republic Street, the main pedestrian area of the city. Pass the City Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through Hastings Gardens and get a panoramic view of Floriana, Msida, Sliema, and Manoel Island and stop for a while at Manoel Theater, Europe's third-oldest working theatre. Explore the main landmarks of this medieval gem while you are listening to your guide´s stories of crusades, knights and cloak and dagger thrills.