VisitMalta officially launches military tourism segment

VisitMalta proudly inaugurated Malta’s Military Tourism segment on Saturday, 9 November, during an event held at St Anne’s Chapel within the historic Fort St. Elmo in Valletta. Organized in collaboration with Heritage Malta, this milestone event introduced a distinctive addition to Malta’s tourism portfolio, celebrating the nation’s rich military heritage.

The new segment is designed to attract military history enthusiasts, highlighting the unique role of the Maltese islands in global military history. St. Anne’s Chapel, the event venue, holds particular significance, commemorating the valiant final stand of six knights of the Order of St. John who defended the chapel and Fort during the Great Siege of 1565.

The launch event was attended by Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, the Hon. Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici, representatives from Heritage Malta, and other key stakeholders.

With its iconic fortifications, historic war cemeteries, and memorials honouring soldiers, Malta offers a compelling narrative for visitors with an interest in military heritage. This new segment enables travellers to explore Malta’s rich tapestry of historical sites, revealing the islands’ resilience and strategic importance over the centuries.

Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, said that the launch of the Military Tourism Niche aligns with VisitMalta’s strategy to promote Malta as a destination that offers enriching and memorable experiences to visitors.

“This initiative goes beyond merely attracting visitors; it is designed to engage those who seek authentic, meaningful experiences that connect them to the rich history of our islands. Military tourism aligns seamlessly with our vision for a tourism sector that prioritizes depth and substance, providing visitors with a compelling reason to choose Malta not only as a destination but as a place to immerse themselves in a unique heritage that celebrates the resilience and spirit of our nation,” ended Mr. Micallef.

The Military Tourism segment not only enhances Malta’s tourism appeal but also strengthens partnerships with organizations such as Heritage Malta and the Commonwealth War Graves Association, creating avenues for visitors to explore a lesser-known aspect of Malta’s heritage.