IN Guardia Historical Reenactment brings knights back to Fort St Elmo
The Malta Tourist Authority uses Fort St. Elmo in Valletta as the backdrop to reenact the days of the Knights of the Order of St. John. In Guardia participants show what it was like for the knights to prepare for the arrival of the Grand Bailiff, the Grand Bailiff’s inspection of the troops, and the use of various weapons of the 16th century.
After an introduction of the flags that represented the langues and the groups of soldiers dedicated to Malta by those langues. Germans, English and French provided different companies that specialized in halberd, spear and other weapons. These troops worked together in the Order of St, John to defend Malta and provide hospital services during the Crusades.
Once the parade is finished and the Grand Bailiff has entered, the troops go through their war exercises. Spears attack, then matchlocks, then halberds, then matchlocks again. Each provides support from the other while advancing. The swordsmen fought against each other, and the fort proved that its mortar and cannon were working.
An entertaining and colorful reenactment, In Guardia is one of the best things that tourist can see on Malta, especially those interested in history or weapons from the past. The best seats are on either corner closest to the Grand Bailiff or at the far left corner. Standing room is also available.
Check out the videos on YouTube including sword fights and use of mortars and cannon
After an introduction of the flags that represented the langues and the groups of soldiers dedicated to Malta by those langues. Germans, English and French provided different companies that specialized in halberd, spear and other weapons. These troops worked together in the Order of St, John to defend Malta and provide hospital services during the Crusades.
Once the parade is finished and the Grand Bailiff has entered, the troops go through their war exercises. Spears attack, then matchlocks, then halberds, then matchlocks again. Each provides support from the other while advancing. The swordsmen fought against each other, and the fort proved that its mortar and cannon were working.
An entertaining and colorful reenactment, In Guardia is one of the best things that tourist can see on Malta, especially those interested in history or weapons from the past. The best seats are on either corner closest to the Grand Bailiff or at the far left corner. Standing room is also available.
Check out the videos on YouTube including sword fights and use of mortars and cannon