The authentic artefacts provide an extensive insight in the war time experiences of the people of Malta. The ‘propaganda ‘ British film footage (that is how it was described for us) illustrated graphical the defence of the island and the daily life of the citizens during such extreme and continuous bombing. A very courageous people well deserving of the George Cross awarded. The underground shelters, carved out of the living rock, was well illustrated with scenarios of life in the tunnels, etc needed to be negotiated with car. I was pleased that I had my hard hat. Well worth a visit.
It was easy spending 2 hours in this amazing museum which is a credit to Malta. Information on each display was excellent and not something you want to rush through. Then to be able to visit the underground air raid shelter, well it gives you goosebumps and is a very thought provoking experience. Gives a very good insight into the horror that Malta endured during WW2.
Spent a fascinating short time here but would have liked more time as so much to see and read about in the museum on the upper level. However going down into the tunnels was an amazing experience and we can only marvel at the spirit of the people who survived the horrors of war in there...the George Cross was truly deserved by the people of Malta. Ruth, the lady at the entrance, was a delight, incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, a great credit to the museum
This museum is an absolutely incredible experience. The underground shelter is both moving and chilling and encapsulates the WWII experience for so many Maltese. Thank you to the lovely staff member Ruth, who so willingly answered many of our questions. I have a particular interest in the WW II period and would rank this and the Lascaris War Rooms as two of the most fascinating WW II sites I have ever visited. For all its incredible history, to me the WW period in Malta is its most compelling chapter. I highly recommend this museum.
So the Malta at War Museum may not have "Faith" or the George Cross (both in the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo) BUT this is THE museum to visit to understand Malta pre- during and immediately post WWII. For sure it's not the biggest museum but it more than makes up for its size with excellent exhibits, some fascinating displays and detailed information on what it was like for the Maltese during the war, especially from 1939 to 1943, explaining life under siege through to Operation Husky. Actually located at the original historic entrance of Vittoriosa (Birgu), not only do you get the museum but also great views of Valletta from the walls and there's a pleasant little café and a small shop. But a real highlight lies further underground (hard hat provided) where you will see the bomb shelters complete with operating theatre, nurses station, chapel and the rooms where families slept during the air raids. Sincere thanks to Ruth at reception for all her help. On the matter of the audio guide, its free if you leave a Passport/Identity Card or Driving Licence as security. Outstanding in every respect and, for me at least, an absolute must see.
