Restored 18th-Century Cannons Return to Castille Square After Heritage Malta Intervention

Yesterday, a dedicated team from Heritage Malta arrived at Castille Square, Valletta, to reinstall the iconic 18th-century cannons in front of the Auberge de Castille.

Their return marks the completion of extensive restoration and conservation works carried out to preserve these important symbols of Malta’s military history.

The cannons, which have stood proudly at one of the highest points in the capital, had suffered considerable degradation over the years due to exposure to the elements and occasional damage caused by passersby.

Now, thanks to careful intervention by Heritage Malta’s experts, they have been stabilised, treated, and restored to their former glory.

The Auberge de Castille, currently housing the Office of the Prime Minister, was originally built in the 1740s to serve as the headquarters for the Knights of the Order of St John from the langue of Castille, León and Portugal.

The cannons that adorn its entrance were not merely decorative, they were originally placed to serve a defensive purpose, reflecting the military might of the Knights and Malta’s strategic importance in the Mediterranean.

Over the centuries, these cannons have become a familiar and photogenic feature of Valletta’s historic streetscape, admired by both locals and tourists alike.

Their careful restoration ensures that they will continue to serve as a visual reminder of Malta’s rich past and its ongoing commitment to cultural heritage.

Heritage Malta’s work is part of a broader national effort to preserve and maintain historic artefacts in public spaces, ensuring they remain accessible and meaningful to future generations.

The restored cannons now stand once again at the foot of Castille, facing the Grand Harbour, as they did nearly 300 years ago, ready to greet all who pass by with silent strength and timeless elegance.

#MaltaDaily