History comes alive! Learn about Caravaggio’s great escape at Fort St Angelo this June
The walls of Fort St Angelo have stories to tell...
One of history’s most captivating tales is coming to life in the heart of the Grand Harbour – and you’re invited to step right into it!
On 20th June 2025, from 7PM to 9PM, the storied walls of Fort St Angelo will echo with drama, intrigue, and betrayal as Heritage Malta presents the thrilling true story of Caravaggio’s daring escape from the very same fortress over 400 years ago.
In 1608, Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, one of the most brilliant and controversial artists of his time, found himself imprisoned within Fort St Angelo – allegedly after a brawl with an aristocratic knight, during which the door of a house was battered down and the knight seriously wounded. Though never formally condemned, the circumstances of his arrest remain shadowed in mystery.
But what followed is the stuff of legends: a bold escape under the cover of night, rumoured to have been aided by secret allies. How did he do it? Why was he there? Who helped him flee?
This immersive evening invites you to step into that shadowy chapter of Maltese and art history. The evening will feature insightful talks from David Starkey, American poet and author of ‘You, Caravaggio’, and Matthew Balzan, Principal Curator of Fort St Angelo.
Visitors will also be treated to an atmospheric visit to ‘the Oubliette’, the fort’s chilling interpretation room, and will have the chance to freely explore parts of the historic fortress – even walking the same paths Caravaggio may have taken.
To top it all off, a complimentary glass of wine will be included with each ticket – because no great story ever started with a salad!
Intrigued? Get your ticket here or in person at any Heritage Malta location.
History is waiting!