top of page
DSC_0780 copy_edited.jpg

NOTRE DAME GATE

Experience 300 years of continued military development of the Cottonera Lines

Constructed in 1675 by the Knights of the Order of St. John, Notre Dame Gate serves as the main entrance to Cottonera. Among the seven gates along the 9 km defensive line surrounding the Three Cities, this gate stands towers over the other buildings in the Cottonera region with its six levels. It features four expansive bombproof barrack rooms, a spacious terrace, and an imposing gatehouse that once housed lifting machinery for the portcullis gate. The baroque architectural style reflects the era of its construction. Adorning the facade are a bronze bust of Grandmaster Cotoner and a sizable marble inscription commemorating his patronage and the construction of the Cottonera Lines.

NOTRE DAME GATE

time.png
location.png

Monday - Saturday: 09.00am - 05.00pm
(Except on 24,25 and 31 Dec, 1 Jan, Good Friday and Easter)​
Admission is only available through pre-booking

Notre Dame Gate, Cottonera Street, Birgu, Malta


Entrance Fees (incl. guided tour)


Delve deeper into the fascinating history of the Notre Dame Gate and uncover the stories that shaped this iconic landmark 


CLICK TO SEE IN FULL SCREEN

A Baroque Splendour

Notre Dame Gate stands as a remarkably well-preserved structure and is the tallest building in the harbour region. From its vantage point, extensive views of the island and the coastline can be seen. Access to the Gate is exclusively available through pre-booking arrangements.

Contact

Opening Hours

Need More Info?
 

+356 21800992

Mon - Sat

09:00 am - 05:00 pm
(Except on 24,25 and 31 Dec, 1 Jan, Good Friday and Easter)​   

info@wirtartna.org

Sunday

Closed

Directions

Notre Dame Gate is well served by bus No.4 from Valletta main station. The frequency of this bus is every 30 minutes from Mon to Sat and every hour on Sundays. Bus stop (Sultan) is only a few metres away from the building.

DSC_2968_c.jpg

RECOMMENDED

After visiting the Notre Dame Gate, we recommend exploring the Malta At War Museum. It's conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the Notre Dame Gate. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Cottonera and Margherita lines—fortifications constructed by the Hospitaller Knights of St. John.

The Malta at War Museum operates from Monday to Saturday, welcoming visitors between 10:00 and 16:30hrs. This museum houses Malta's most extensive collection of World War II memorabilia.

bottom of page