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 ST PETER'S GALLERIES 

Discover the largest and deepest excavation under Valletta where a WW2 top secret project remains incomplete and frozen in time

Nestled beneath the Saint Peter & Paul Counterguard in Valletta and Ganado Gardens in Floriana and spread across two levels, lies an enormous tunneling complex known as St. Peter's Galleries, which traces its origins back to the early part of the Second World War. The construction of this complex began in earnest in late 1941, concurrently with the development of the underground space now occupied by the Lascaris War Rooms. The purpose behind these efforts was to establish a new combined War Headquarters, as the existing one had become too small for the war needs which were on the increase. It was to house the different operation rooms, communications and signals and offices of all the three fighting services. 

By April 1942, the increase of enemy air raids necessitated extensive underground protection for Malta's population. This led to the suspension of various construction projects, including the St. Peter's Galleries, as workers were diverted to excavate civilian air raid shelters. By late 1942, almost a year into the war, these efforts provided underground protection for all inhabitants. However, as Allied victories shifted the tide of war, Malta was chosen as the Allies' Advanced Headquarters for the invasion of Sicily in January 1943. In late 1943, all work on the galleries ceased, and they were sealed with all equipment left inside, hopeful for future resumption. Unfortunately, with the war's end, this opportunity never arose. The galleries remained forgotten for over fifty years until Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna - the Malta Heritage Trust - rediscovered them during restoration work on nearby War HQ Tunnels and Lascaris War Rooms in 2009. Since then, they have been opened to the public, offering a glimpse into Malta's wartime history.

ST PETER'S GALLERIES

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Monday - Saturday:  14:30
(Except on 24,25 and 31 Dec, 1 Jan, Good Friday and Easter)
Admission is possible only with a guided tour. The Galleries are accessible from the Lascaris war Rooms

Lascaris War rooms, Lascaris Ditch,
Valletta, VLT1221, Malta

Members: FREE
Adult (16+ years old): €17
Child (5-15 years old): €7


CLICK TO SEE IN FULL SCREEN

Explore the massive network of rock-hewn tunnels under the City of Valletta 

Uncover the hidden mysteries within these galleries as you delve into the rock-hewn tunnels situated 60m beneath Valletta. Intriguingly, these abandoned tunnels, untouched since 1943, stand as a testament to the enduring passage of time, offering a unique glimpse into history's silent preservation.

Contact

Opening Hours

Need More Info?
 

+356 21234717

Mon - Sat

10:00 am - 04:30 pm
(Except on 24,25 and 31 Dec, 1 Jan, Good Friday and Easter)

info@wirtartna.org

Sunday

Closed

Directions

The WW2 St. Peter's Galleries are located in the Lascaris Ditch next door to the Lascaris War Rooms in Valletta. Access is possible only with a guided tour, starting from the Lascaris War Rooms. Guided Tours starts at 14.30pm. 

For more information on guided tours click here