From Castrum Maris To Delimara’s Mighty Guns

Press Release│13 February 2026

This February and March, Heritage Malta shines the spotlight on two of Malta’s most remarkable coastal strongholds, Fort St Angelo and Fort Delimara. Two immersive events invite the public to rediscover these historic sites’ crucial defensive roles while witnessing the agency’s latest restoration efforts.

On Sunday 22nd February, Fort St Angelo in Birgu turns back the clock to the 1400s, becoming once more the Castrum Maris, the Castle by the Sea. From 10:00am to 3:00pm, the Historical Re-enactment Group of Malta (HRGM) will transform the fort into a bustling medieval stronghold. Visitors will encounter soldiers in period costume and weaponry, learn about the supplies and arms that safeguarded the harbour, and experience life within the castle’s sturdy walls during this era.

Standard admission fees apply. Heritage Malta members and Senior and Student Passport holders enter for free. Tickets may be prebooked online at https://heritagemalta.mt/store/, purchased from Heritage Malta museums and sites, or at the door.

On Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March, one of Heritage Malta’s most sought-after closed sites opens its gates: Fort Delimara, towering above Marsaxlokk Harbour. Built in the late 19th century, this Victorian fort features a vast parade ground, barracks, and underground passages. It also houses four original 38-ton guns, fully restored and remarkably the only surviving examples in the world still on their original carriages in their original casemate emplacements. Visitors will be able to view one of these extraordinary guns up close.

Heritage Malta’s latest restoration efforts will also be on display. Highlights include the recently completed embellishment project at the fort’s entrance. The restoration of the 145-year-old main door was carried out entirely on site, addressing deteriorated timber and damaged sections while retaining as much of the original wood and ironwork as possible. Using a rare 1954 colour photograph as reference, the team recreated the entrance’s appearance as it looked before 1956, when the fort ceased military operations.

Fort Delimara will be open from 9:00am to 5:00pm on both days, with hourly guided tours alternating in Maltese and English. Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Tickets will not be available at the door.

For full details, bookings, and updates, visit https://heritagemalta.mt/whats-on/ and follow Heritage Malta on social media, including the official WhatsApp channel: www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb4UJxw1yT29ko3Gkq2F