Armoury of the Knights of Malta

Historic Building in Birgu

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mboesch

The Armoury of the Knights of Malta in Birgu (Vittoriosa) is one of the city's earliest and most historically significant structures, reflecting the military and humanitarian legacy of the Order of St. John. Constructed between 1533 and 1537, during the magistracy of Fra Claude de La Sengle, the building was originally designed to serve as the main armoury and munitions depot for the Knights. Its strategic location within the fortified city made it a vital part of Birgu's defensive infrastructure, storing weapons, gunpowder, and other supplies essential for protecting the island against Ottoman and corsair attacks. The building's robust design—with thick limestone walls and wide doorways on all four sides—allowed for efficient access and rapid deployment of arms in case of emergency, a testament to the Knights' disciplined military organization.

During the Great Siege of 1565, the Armoury's role shifted dramatically from one of war to one of compassion. As the fighting intensified and casualties mounted, the building was repurposed as a hospital for wounded knights and soldiers. This transformation reflected the dual mission of the Order — both military and hospitaller — caring for the sick and injured even amid battle. Inside, its spacious, well-ventilated halls made it suitable for accommodating the wounded, while its proximity to Fort St. Angelo ensured it remained protected during the siege. The adaptability of the structure under such dire circumstances speaks to the resourcefulness and resilience of the Knights and the people of Birgu during one of Malta's darkest yet most heroic chapters.

In 1636, more than a century after its construction, the Armoury underwent significant renovations and expansion, including the addition of a second floor. This enhancement likely responded to the growing needs of the Order as it transitioned from its early defensive years in Birgu to a more stable period of power and prosperity. The modifications introduced architectural refinements while maintaining the building's practical purpose as a storehouse for arms and supplies. Even after the Knights moved their capital to Valletta in the late 16th century, the Armoury in Birgu continued to serve as an important secondary facility supporting the Order's military operations and local garrison.

During the British period (1800–1964), the Armoury's function evolved once again. The building was converted into a military hospital and barracks, continuing its long tradition of service in both defense and healthcare. Following the Second World War, as Birgu began to modernize and recover from the bombings that scarred much of the Grand Harbour area, the building found new life as a Primary School, a fitting transformation from a place of war to one of learning. Today, though no longer serving a military purpose, the Armoury of the Knights of Malta stands as a powerful symbol of Birgu's layered history — a structure that has continually adapted to the needs of its people, from the days of the Knights to modern Malta.

The Armoury of the Knights of Malta appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Birgu!

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