If you ever find yourself wandering the honey-colored streets of Valletta, Malta, do yourself a favor and march straight to the Armoury Museum.
It was a combination of curiosity and a desire to do something educational that drew me there.
As someone from Compton, California, who never dreamed she’d make it this far from home, I enjoyed every moment of my visit.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a dazzling array of armor and weaponry that left me awestruck.
The Armoury Museum, housed in the majestic Grandmaster’s Palace, contains more than 5,000 items. It was the last arsenal established by a crusader military order.
Visiting Info: What You Need to Know
The Armoury is open to the public most days:
- January 5 to February 28: from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- March 1 to October 31: from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Check the official Heritage Malta website before your visit.
Another helpful detail: entry is included with the purchase of a Grand Master’s Palace ticket, so there’s no need to buy a separate ticket.
For convenience, tickets can be purchased both online and on-site, helping you plan ahead and potentially avoid lines.
Who needs Google Maps?
Once you’ve secured your tickets, you’ll find the Armoury Museum is easy to reach.
The Armoury Museum is centrally located within the Grandmaster’s Palace in the heart of Valletta.
It’s an easy walk from Valletta’s main city gate, making it convenient for visitors arriving by public transportation or on foot.
Just follow the signs:
A History Lesson
During my visit, I learned that when a knight died, it was customary for his armoury to become the property of the Order of Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem.
Wow, this isn’t just a museum; it’s a time capsule.
The collection dates back to the 16th century, when the Knights of St John defended Malta against all manner of invaders. Although today only a part of the original armoury survives, it remains one of the world’s largest collections of arms and armour, housed in its original building.
Imagine standing face-to-face with the battle-worn suits of armour that once protected legendary knights of the Order of St. John. As I lingered, a wave of awe washed over me, a mixture of reverence and curiosity as I contemplated the history etched into each dent and scratch.
These treasures, mostly crafted between 1550 and 1650, include the personal battle gear of Grand Masters Martin Garzez and Alof de Wignacourt, and Grand Commander Jean-Jacques de Verdelin, who were true VIPs of the chivalric world.
I felt a profound connection to the past, as if the spirits of these knights were whispering tales of valor and honor across the centuries.
Surrounded by gleaming displays of ornate armor and swords, I was spellbound — as if I’d been dropped into a medieval epic. Each step made my heart race as I felt history come alive all around me.
If you close your eyes, you can almost hear the echo of clashing steel and the distant roar of battle. I tried my best to strike a heroic pose for a selfie with a 400-year-old breastplate, but let’s be real — I probably looked more Renaissance Faire than noble knight, grinning in sheer disbelief at the wonders before me.
Photography is allowed inside the museum, so feel free to capture your own memories, but be mindful of any flash restrictions to preserve the delicate artifacts.
Actually, just ask the service representatives if you have any doubts. They were very nice and respectful, and happy to help me enjoy my visit.
Among the treasures are firearms, swords, cannonballs, and weapons spanning from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Some Ottoman arms captured during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 are here too, alongside cannons salvaged from a shipwreck deep off Mellieħa. It’s like a greatest-hits album of battlefield history!
And for a twist of modern magic, there are interactive displays featuring videos that show how knights wielded their weapons. Watch historical reenactments bring legendary battles and sieges roaring back to life. These engaging exhibits make the museum an exciting experience not just for adults but also for children and families.
Children will love the chance to feel like honorary knights in the thick of the action, making it a fun and educational stop for visitors of all ages. Just remember: no jousting in the galleries — apparently, that’s frowned upon these days!
The Armoury’s historical significance is immense — these treasures survived the Great Siege of 1565 and World War II bombings. As I wandered through the halls, I was filled with awe and gratitude that these priceless relics endured.
I left with a newfound respect for the courage of knights, and a strong urge to use the word “broadsword” in everyday conversation (I haven’t yet, though).
Visiting the Armoury Museum was hands-down one of the highlights of my Maltese adventure. I spent about 75 minutes exploring its captivating displays, which felt just right for soaking in the history. If you want to experience the past up close and maybe flex your own inner knight, this is the spot.
For the best experience, I recommend visiting either early in the morning, when the museum opens, or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, offering a more serene environment to fully appreciate the exhibits.
Feeling a bit parched?
After immersing yourself in the rich history of the Armoury Museum, you might be ready for the next adventure.
Consider taking a stroll to the nearby Upper Barrakka Gardens, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour and relax amidst beautiful greenery.
Once you’ve taken in the views, unwind with a local treat. Café Cordina, a renowned Maltese café located just a short walk away, offers delightful pastries and refreshing drinks perfect for a post-tour snack.
I wished I’d listened to my gut and eaten at Café Cordina instead of the horrendous Ranieri Restaurant & Cafe. My meal there was an oozing mass of spoiled leftovers.
If you’re still in the mood for discovery, a taste of local art and culture awaits nearby: the National Museum of Archaeology is just a stone’s throw away, offering fascinating insights into Malta’s ancient past.
Just as I wrapped up my visit, I learned this fun local tidbit:
Did you know there’s a local legend that the Knights of Malta reputedly hid a vast treasure beneath Valletta, and that it is still there waiting for its rightful heirs?
Hmm?
Whether this is fact or fiction, searching for the treasure sure adds an aura of mystery and thrill to any adventure.
Until next time …
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