Upper Barrakka Gardens — Valletta

What are the Upper Barrakka Gardens?

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are a terraced public garden built on top of one of Valletta's great bastions. Shaded by arcades and planted with trees and flowers, the gardens are best known for the balcony at their edge, which gives an unobstructed view over the Grand Harbour. Directly below sits the Saluting Battery, a line of ceremonial cannon.

Where are the Upper Barrakka Gardens?

The gardens occupy the St Peter & Paul Bastion at the upper, inland end of Valletta, close to the city gate and the Parliament building. A panoramic lift connects the gardens with the harbourside far below.

History of the Upper Barrakka Gardens

The site began in the late 16th century as a private garden for the Italian knights of the Order. After the Order left Malta the gardens were opened to the public in 1824 under British administration. The Saluting Battery beneath them is one of the oldest still-operational saluting batteries in the world, and was used to mark time, salute visiting ships and signal events in the harbour.

What to see at the Upper Barrakka Gardens

• The panoramic terrace overlooking the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities.
• noon gun — fired daily from the Saluting Battery.
• Arcaded walkways, statues and memorials within the gardens.
• The Barrakka Lift down to the harbourside.

Significance

The view from the Upper Barrakka is the classic image of the Grand Harbour and a fixture of almost every visit to Valletta. The Saluting Battery, meanwhile, preserves a living ceremonial tradition that links the modern city to its days as a fortified naval base.

Visiting the Upper Barrakka Gardens

The gardens themselves are a free public space. The Saluting Battery offers gun-firing displays at set times, which may carry a separate charge. Check current firing times and any tickets before visiting.