Overlooking Malta’s Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Saluting Battery in Valletta is one of the island’s most iconic historical sites. Dating back to 1566, this cannon battery was built by the Order of St. John and designed by the Italian military engineer Francesco Laparelli. Its strategic
position offers sweeping views of the harbour and Fort St. Angelo, a reminder of its long-standing military and ceremonial importance.

The battery’s origins trace back to the Great Siege of 1565, when Ottoman forces mounted artillery on the Sciberras Peninsula to attack the Knights of St. John. Following the siege, construction of Valletta began in 1566, and with it, the creation of the Saluting Battery on the Saint Peter and Saint Paul Bastion. Initially equipped with 12-pound bronze cannons, the site served both defensive purposes and official ceremonies.

Under the rule of the Knights, the French, and the British, the battery remained active. It played a key military role during the Maltese blockade (1798–1800) and World War II. The British removed its original guns in 1954, and after years of neglect, it was restored in the early 2000s. Today, visitors can witness the daily firing of reconstructed 32-pounder cannons.

The Saluting Battery is best known for its ceremonial cannon fire. From Monday to Saturday, two loud salvos are fired — one at 12:00 PM (the famous “noon gun”) and another at 4:00 PM.

Historically, the noon shot served a practical purpose: it helped ship captains synchronize their maritime chronometers — crucial for navigation. The 4:00 PM shot originally signaled the closing of city gates and the raising of drawbridges.

Beyond these functional origins, the cannons were also fired for ceremonial occasions, including the arrival of foreign dignitaries or national celebrations. Today, the gun salutes are a popular tourist attraction in Valletta, offering both historical insight and theatrical spectacle.

Nestled within the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Saluting Battery is a must-see for visitors exploring things to do in Valletta. In addition to the live cannon fire demonstration, the site includes a small museum of historical artillery and a multilingual audio tour that brings Malta’s military history to life.

The panoramic view over the Grand Harbour is nothing short of breathtaking, making the Saluting Battery not only an educational visit but also a visual delight.

The Saluting Battery at Upper Barrakka stands as a vibrant symbol of Malta’s defensive history, maritime tradition, and cultural pride. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or simply someone who enjoys a good bang at noon, this site offers a unique blend of history and spectacle you won’t forget.

So next time you’re in Valletta — don’t flinch when the cannon sounds. Embrace the echo of centuries past.