War HQ Tunnels

Museum in Valletta

Hidden beneath Valletta's Upper Barrakka Gardens lies one of Malta's most extraordinary wartime relics — the War HQ Tunnels, a sprawling network of bombproof corridors that once formed the nerve center of the island's defense. Carved deep into the limestone bastions, this underground complex covers over 35,000 square meters and served as the Combined War Headquarters for the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, and British Army between 1940 and 1943. During the Second World War, when Malta was one of the most heavily bombed places on Earth, these tunnels became the heart of Allied operations in the Mediterranean, directing air raids, naval movements, and anti-aircraft defenses in real time.

Today, the tunnels have been meticulously restored, allowing visitors to step back into the tense days of the Siege of Malta. Dimly lit chambers, restored operations rooms, and original wartime equipment bring history vividly to life. This spot is one of the best places to see in Valletta for those fascinated by military history or looking to understand Malta's remarkable wartime resilience. The War HQ Tunnels offer an immersive experience — a journey into the underground world where strategy, endurance, and courage shaped the course of the war.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Tips
How to Get There
Is the War HQ Tunnels Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

The origins of the War HQ Tunnels date back to the early years of World War II, when Malta's position at the center of the Mediterranean made it one of Britain's most critical defense outposts. Built into the solid limestone beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens and the St. Peter & Paul Counter-Guard, the tunnels provided a secure and bomb-resistant environment from which to coordinate the island's defenses. From here, the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, and British Army jointly operated under the Combined War Headquarters — a collaboration that proved vital during the intense Siege of Malta from 1940 to 1942.

Within these walls, officers tracked enemy convoys, plotted radar signals, and coordinated fighter aircraft and anti-aircraft fire to protect the island and its supply convoys. The tunnels also played a crucial role in preparing for the Allied invasion of Sicily (Operation Husky) in 1943, further cementing Malta's reputation as an unsinkable aircraft carrier in the heart of the Mediterranean. The network's strategic value, secrecy, and durability made it one of the most advanced military command centers of its kind during the war.

Things to See and Do

Exploring the War HQ Tunnels is a powerful and immersive experience. Visitors can wander through the original Navy Operations Room, Fighter Control Room, Filter Room, and Anti-Aircraft Gun Operations Center, each meticulously reconstructed with authentic wartime maps, communication equipment, and furnishings. Informative panels and knowledgeable guides bring the site's history to life, recounting the immense pressures faced by the men and women who worked here around the clock during constant bombardment.

A highlight of the visit is the St. Peter & Paul Counter-Guard, part of Valletta's 16th-century fortifications that were later integrated into the wartime complex. The narrow passageways and thick stone walls here offer a visceral reminder of how Malta's medieval defenses were adapted for modern warfare. Period photographs and real accounts help visitors connect with the human side of the story — the endurance, ingenuity, and camaraderie that kept Malta alive during its darkest hours.

The tour is often paired with a visit to the Saluting Battery above, where visitors can watch the daily cannon firing over the Grand Harbour. Together, these sites provide a complete picture of Valletta's strategic military heritage and are often visited on walking tours of Valletta for those keen to explore the city's wartime legacy.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Late morning or early afternoon; cooler underground temperatures year-round
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €16 (includes guided tour)
Opening hours: 10:00–17:00 (check for seasonal changes)
Official website: warhqtunnels.com.mt
How long to spend: 1–1.5 hours
Accessibility: Limited due to narrow corridors and steps
Facilities: Restrooms and gift shop near entrance
Photography tip: Use low-light settings or a tripod; flash photography may be restricted
Guided tours: Highly recommended for detailed historical insight
Nearby food options: The Harbour Club, Piadina Caffè, and Upper Barrakka Kiosk

How to Get There

The War HQ Tunnels are accessed via Battery Street, just beneath the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Entry is typically through the Saluting Battery ticket office. From Valletta's City Gate, it's about a 10-minute walk downhill along St. Paul Street or Triq Sant' Orsla. The location is well-signposted, and combined tickets for both the Saluting Battery and the tunnels are available.

Is the War HQ Tunnels Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The War HQ Tunnels are one of the top attractions in Valletta for history lovers, offering a rare chance to explore the hidden side of Malta's wartime past. The atmosphere, authenticity, and expert storytelling make it an unforgettable experience — not just for military enthusiasts but for anyone interested in understanding Malta's resilience and its vital role in shaping the outcome of World War II.

Nearby Attractions

Upper Barrakka Gardens – Offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Saluting Battery.
Lascaris War Rooms – Another WWII underground site that complements the War HQ Tunnels experience.
Grand Master's Palace – A symbol of Maltese leadership through the ages.
St. John's Co-Cathedral – One of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Europe.
National War Museum at Fort St. Elmo – Chronicles Malta's military history from the Knights to modern times.

The War HQ Tunnels appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valletta!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!