Welcome to Saluting Battery, a beautiful and historical landmark situated in the heart of Valletta, Malta. With its beautiful views and amazing history, it is the perfect place to explore and learn about the past of Malta.
The Saluting Battery is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Malta or Valletta. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the island and its importance to the British Empire.
What is the Saluting Battery?
The Saluting Battery is a fortification located on the Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta. It was built in the 16th century to provide a defence to the city from invading forces. The fort has been used as a defensive position ever since.
The Saluting Battery is best known for its daily ceremonial gun salutes. At noon every day, a 21-gun salute is fired from the fort to mark the noon hour. The fort has also served as a backdrop for many historical events, including the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1967.
History of the Saluting Battery
The Saluting Battery was originally built in the 16th century, when Valletta was being constructed as a fortress city. The battery was part of the city’s defensive fortifications and was used to fire on attacking ships.
In the 19th century, the Saluting Battery was upgraded and modernized. It was fitted with four cannons and two mortars, and the guns were fired on a regular basis as a warning to any approaching ships.
In 1967, the Saluting Battery was used to fire a 21-gun salute to honour the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. This was the first time a 21-gun salute was fired from the fort, and it has become a tradition ever since.
What to See at the Saluting Battery
The Saluting Battery is a beautiful and historical landmark in Valletta and is a must-see for visitors to the city. The fort is home to four cannons which are fired every day at noon, and the views from the fort are spectacular.
There is also a museum at the Saluting Battery which is home to a large collection of historical artefacts. These include cannons, muskets, and swords which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The museum also contains a number of artefacts from more modern times, including a replica of the gun used to fire the 21-gun salute in 1967.
Visiting the Saluting Battery
The Saluting Battery is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, and the entrance to the fort is free of charge. Visitors can also access the fort via the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which is a beautiful park with stunning views of Valletta and the Grand Harbour.
The Saluting Battery is an amazing historical landmark and is a must-see for anyone visiting Valletta. With its beautiful views and amazing history, it is the perfect place to explore and learn about the past of Malta.