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Offered languages
- English
Delve into the harrowing stories of the 1565 Great Siege of Malta on this immersive 2.5-hour walking tour through Birgu. Walk the very streets where bravery faced chaos, as a knowledgeable guide shares gripping tales of courage, desperation, and sacrifice from this pivotal moment in history. Participants aged 14 and above will uncover the hidden perspectives of Maltese defenders, exploring offbeat paths and remarkable sites that few tourists ever see. Feel history come alive as you witness the legacy of those who fought for survival against overwhelming odds.
- Duration: 2.5 hours, suitable for ages 14 and above
- Personalized experience
- Professional great siege expert guide in authentic 16th-century clothing for a unique storytelling experience
- Discover off-the-beaten-path locations and stunning views most locals have never seen
- Suitable for anyone who wants to understand Malta's most epic Great Siege led by a passionate expert in an immersive manner
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We meet outside the entrance known as "Advanced Gate", just outside Birgu
Finishes by the bridge of St. James, only a few minutes away from Birgu Ditch, Public transport and Ta' Salvina restuarant
Itinerary
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1
We meet outside of Advanced (just outside Birgu) where your Maltese guide from the 16th Century welcomes you to the bloody battles and events that are about to unfold. Next we cross the road and take in sweeping views of Senglea, Valletta, and the Grand Harbour while standing in front of one of the deadliest battle zones of the siege, the site of Fort St Michael where relentless assaults shaped the fate of Malta
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
We had to the Site of the Maritime Museum and discuss surrounding key siege landmarks, where defence and desperation went hand in hand.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3St. Lawrence's Church
Stand outside the site of the former conventual church of the Knights of St John , admire little-known gems, old churches, and other chilling secrets as we uncover mysteries and controversies of the siege. NB We admire the church and other sites from oustide
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4
We head towards Birgu's main square, where little hidden symbols are uncovered as we discuss more crucial elements by the great Siege Victory Monument before we prepare to head off to the true off-beaten track and hear more gruesome gossip and terrible tales of the Great Siege Venture off-route into Birgu’s darker corners. Along “Prison Street,” hear gruesome tales, whispered rumours, and the harsh realities of life during the siege.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
With commanding views across the Harbour, Valletta, and Kalkara Creek uncover the dramatic story of Fort St Elmo and its devastating fall.
10 minutes • Admission ticket included -
6
Step into the world of siege hospitals and frontline suffering along the defensive Post of England, where the wounded were treated… and many never left. We speak next to the old Hospital of the knights. (we do not enter)
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
Discover lesser-known siege locations and hidden gems along the "Post of Germany", where pressure mounted and the line was constantly tested
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
One of Birgu’s oldest streets, offering a glimpse into the architecture and atmosphere of 16th-century life.
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9
Walk through the area once home to several Auberges, including the site of Auberge de Castille.
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10
Explore the site of the old armoury and learn how weapons, strategy, and preparation shaped the siege
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11
Narrow streets leading toward the frontline, on the path to one of the most intense battle zones - The Post of Castille
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12
Onto the breach. The enemy is inside. Stand where the Ottomans broke through and witness the site of one of the fiercest and bloodiest clashes of the siege on the old defensive "Post of Castille, Leon and Portugal"
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
13
Is it over...or is it a trap? At this final defensive line, uncover the tension, uncertainty, and turning points that decided Birgu’s fate
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wear good shoes, good clothing and bring sun protection
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wear good shoes, good clothing and bring sun protection
- Around 50 steps, some un-even ground, and up-hill walks worth every step for the gems that await
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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