Malta 5th Report. Valletta

Light steady rain today.  We knew that this was coming so today was going to be a museum day. The 5 minute ferry to Valletta was not running due to the weather so we caught the 10 mins bus journey instead.   The rain was easing when we reached the capital and lucky for us, that was the end of the rain!   Walked to the part of the fortifications that were the major administration area during WWII.  Both Tony and I had learned sometime during our lives that Malta had suffered badly during the War and had been recognised for their valour by being awarded the George Cross from Britain. Today we could put all of that into perspective. We stumbled upon the 12 Noon cannon salute at Battery Point. Originally, it helped ship's captains to re-establish their bearings, literally, as they had either travelled 5 days from Gibraltar or 8 days from parts of the Middle East. Now it is a tourist attraction.

During a pleasant light lunch we watched as security precautions were put in place, in preparation for the inauguration of the new Maltese Prime Minister, replacing the one who had recently resigned as one of his advisers was implicated in the assassination of a journalist!

Most of the afternoon was spent in the Lascaris War Rooms, 40 metres under the defence walls and the Hub of WWII planning re the re-taking of Sicily and repelling of the Germans.   We also learned of the 2 years of bombardment of this island.  Thank goodness for the defences put in place by The Knights in the 1500's as they provided refuge for the hapless citizens in the 1900's.  With Malta left in a desolate state, we can totally understand why many of them decided to try for a new life in Oz.

On that note, we have had many a conversation about "my cousin/uncle in Australia" and the acknowledgement that maybe more Maltese live in Oz than in Malta.

I made a quick visit to the main Art Gallery while Tony wandered elsewhere.    A last drink and light meal in Sliema before our departure from this interesting tiny country. Early rise tomorrow and two nights in Rome.

Apparently the thought of  gun fire is a major attraction. 

After much ceremonial preparation...bang!!

Loved the modern goods in the ancient vaulted recess. 

View to the entrance to the Grand Harbour. 

In the bowels of the fortifications. 

Chilling reality of war engagement. 

Big map and men leaning over with long pointers and moving the markers.In my imagination at least.  

The Knights came from 8 major provinces/kingdoms of the time.  Hence the 8 pointed Maltese Cross. The grand home of the Italian-based Knights is now the principal art gallery. 

Our favourite watering hole.