Upper Barrakka Gardens is a small public garden on the east side of Valletta, overlooking the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. The elevated viewpoint is the main reason to stop, with the Saluting Battery below firing its cannons at noon and 4:00pm. The garden also gives you a shaded place to pause amid Valletta’s steep streets. Pair it with a visit to Lower Barrakka Gardens for a different harbour perspective.
A garden made for a harbour view
The Barrakka Gardens sit on Valletta’s east side and are divided into Upper and Lower gardens. The Upper Gardens look across the Grand Harbour towards Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, the Three Cities on the opposite side.
The Knights of St John laid out the Upper Gardens as a place for their own use. They later opened to the public in the 19th century. Today, the elevated outlook is the garden’s defining feature, while its greenery and shade offer a pause from the city’s sloping streets.
The Saluting Battery
The Saluting Battery lies below the gardens. Its cannons fire daily at noon and 4:00pm, giving the viewpoint a set moment to plan around. Arriving 20 to 25 minutes beforehand helps you find a place to watch.
The Lower Barrakka Gardens are another nearby stop. Visiting both gives you two viewpoints over the harbour, though the Upper Gardens are the place to be for the cannon firing.
Preguntas frecuentes
When does the Saluting Battery fire?
The cannons fire daily at noon and 4:00pm.
What can you see from Upper Barrakka Gardens?
The gardens overlook the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua.
How early should I arrive for the cannon firing?
Arrive 20 to 25 minutes beforehand to get a good viewing spot.
