Malta

Museums & Galleries

National Archaeological Museum, Valletta. Housed in the former Auberge de Provence, this small but impressive collection has some real prehistoric gems: megalithic blocks from the Tarxien Temple, a model of the Hypogeum, and a room of the curious 'fat ladies' sculptures from Neolithic temples, including the exquisite Venus of Malta and the Sleeping Lady. Republic Street. Open daily mid-June-Sept 8am-2pm, rest of the year 8.15am-5pm.

The Theatre Museum, Valletta. A walk through Malta's theatrical history since 1732 at the Manoel Theatre. Guided tours of the theatre and museum are held weekdays at 10.30am, 11.30am and 4.30pm and Saturday at 11.30am and 12.30pm. LM1.65 for tour and museum, LM1 for museum only. General hours: Monday-Friday 10am-12.30pm and also Monday, Wednesday and Friday 4-6pm; Saturday 10am-1pm. Old Theatre Street.

National Museum of Fine Arts, Valletta. Paintings and furniture from the 14th century to modern times, particularly noted for the collection of works by Mattia Preti. Housed in the Baroque townhouse of a Knight. Open daily mid-June-Sept 8am-2pm, rest of the year 8.15am-5pm.

National War Museum, Valletta. The George Cross, awarded to Malta in 1942, and a restored Gladiator biplane are the highlight of this collection of World War II memorabilia, housed beneath Fort St Elmo. Open daily mid-June-Sept 8am-2pm, rest of the year 8.15am-5pm.

Lascaris War Rooms, Valletta. Re-creation of the underground rooms that served as the central command for Allied operations on Malta during World War II. Located in former dungeons of the Knights, beneath the Lascaris Bastion. Open Monday-Friday 9.30-4pm, Saturday-Sunday 9.30am-12.30pm.