1.The National Museum of Archeology
Built-in 1571. It is one of the most decorated Baroque buildings in Valletta. Which makes it a fabulous example of fine Baroque architecture. It showcases its architectural features to the smallest detail.
Inside the museum, you find the ‘Grand Salon.’ With its richly painted walls and wooden beamed ceiling, is a spectacular sight. The museum exhibits a wide range of archaeological showpieces from Malta’s Neolithic Period (5000 BCE) up to the Phoenician Period (400 BCE). The earliest tools for daily tasks are exhibited in the museum. This gives you an amazing insight into a prehistorical person’s life.
Among historical and fascinating treasures, you find highlights like the ‘Sleeping Lady’ and the ‘Venus of Malta.’ History both go back to the Phoenician Period. it is one of the must museums you must see when in Valletta.
2.The National Museum of Fine Arts
This is Valletta’s earliest historical building. It has been the residence for successive Saint John’s Knights. Later on, the stunning building has hosted high-ranked personalities. Such as Queen Elizabeth of Britain and King George V both as guests and residents.
Ever since 1974, it has officially been the National Museum of Fine Arts. By that also Malta’s most important museum for the arts. The museum displays precious Maltese silverware, fine artistic furniture, bronze and wooden statues from both local and internationally renowned artists.
3.The Fortress Builders- Fortifications Interpretation Centre
The Fortification Interpretation Centre displays exhibitions relating to both military architectures in an interactive way. As well as the various fortifications of Malta. It also contains a lecture hall and a reference library mainly intended for researchers.
The building itself is a late 16th bombproof magazine or warehouse. Its exact function is unknown. The upper floor and roof were nearly destroyed in World War II. The restoration started in 2010 until 2013. When the museum opened its doors. So when in Malta this is one of the museums you must see when in Valletta.
4.The National War Museum
This war museum displays items from both World Wars and the 2 years of French occupation. Most importantly the important role that Malta and its people played during World War II. The collection of items at the museum gives you the whole story of events that led to the two World Wars.
Besides from the countless amount of items you find in the museum, there is also photographic panels that give you an exact insight on the extremely harsh conditions Malta and its people were put through.
In 1942, Malta and its whole population were recognized for their bravery during World War II. Where they received the George Cross Medal. This precious medal is not only there for you to see at the museum. It also features on the Maltese flag. Prestigious awards received by service men and civilians for their bravery and sacrifices during World War II can also be found in the museum.
5. The Palace State Rooms
Not considered as a museum, but it shows fabulous historical art-pieces as paintings and furniture. The Palace State Rooms are in the Presidential Palace. It is the residence for the Office of the President of Malta. It was also the residence of the Governor (during the British period) and it was also where the Maltese Parliament seated for the first time in 1921.
6. The Palace Armoury
Lastly, in the museums, you must see when in Valletta is the Palace Armoury. Here you will find one of the world’s largest collections of arms and armour still housed in the same building. They take you back to the 17th and 18th centuries. It showcases the main armoury of the Order of St. John. The collection also consists of firearms, swords, cannons and special suits worn by successive Grand Masters.
In 1860 the museum opened, but due to the Second World War, the hall where the armoury was originally present got damaged. The precious collection had to be protected and was transferred into the basement of Grand Master’s Palace. The building was repaired and the armoury reopened in 1948. In 1969, it was presented as one of ‘the most valuable historic monuments of European culture.