French Navy Frigate Forbin Arrives In Grand Harbour To Traditional Gun Salute
The French Navy’s air defence frigate Forbin arrived in Valletta’s Grand Harbour earlier today, accompanied by a traditional exchange of gun salutes with the Saluting Battery.
The video was shared by the French Embassy in Malta, while Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna provided details about the historical tradition behind the ceremonial welcome.The arrival reflects the longstanding friendship between France and Malta, as well as their shared commitment to maritime security and cooperation in the Mediterranean, the French Embassy said.
The exchange of gun salutes recreates a tradition dating back centuries, when armed ships entering fortified harbours would exchange salutes with shore batteries as a sign of friendly intentions.According to Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna, these practices eventually evolved into the international ceremonial gun salutes observed today.Since the restoration of the Saluting Battery in 2004, the foundation has revived several of its historical traditions, including maritime salutes, the daily noon gun and ceremonial firing on state occasions and religious festivals.
