The fort has been under Heritage Malta’s care since 2005.
Heritage Malta, the islands’ national agency for museums, conservation practice, and cultural heritage, will be opening the historic Fort Delimara for a day of free guided tours and re-enactments on Sunday 16th October.
This fascinating site was built between 1876 and 1878 to defend the approaches to Marsaxlokk and is considered a classic example of Victorian coastal fortification.
Fort Delimara might be best known for the four original 38-ton rifled muzzle loading guns which it still houses – the last surviving examples in the world – still on their carriages in their original casemate emplacements.
The fort remained operational until 1956, having then been used as a farm for over 25 years until it was placed under Heritage Malta’s protection in 2005.
Visitors at Fort Delimara’s open day will be able to appreciate the extensive works conducted by the cultural agency throughout the past year.
Together with other organisations, Heritage Malta thoroughly cleaned the fort’s underground sections and parade ground. Several farm accretions – some of which were even dangerous – have also been removed.
A new electricity and water system has been installed at the fort, with the site’s security also being stepped up.
There will be eight tours and four re-enactments at Fort Delimara on 16th October.
Tour times are as follows:
- 9am (Maltese)
- 10:15am (English)
- 11am (Maltese)
- 12:15pm (English)
- 1pm (Maltese)
- 2:15pm (English)
- 3pm (Maltese)
- 4:15pm (English)
On the other hand, re-enactment shows will be starting at 9:45am, 11:45am, 1:45pm, and 3:45pm. Each show will be part of the tour preceding and succeeding it.
Pre-booking is required for those who wish to take part in a guided tour.
Tickets can be purchased online or at any Heritage Malta museum or site.