85TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DECIMA FLOTTIGLIA MAS ATTACK

The 85th Anniversary of the Decima Flottiglia MAS Attack takes place on Wednesday 22 July 2026 from 19:00 to 20:00 at Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum in Valletta. The event revisits one of the most dramatic moments in Malta’s wartime history, marking the only direct seaborne attack ever launched against the Maltese Islands during World War II. The attack took place on 26 July 1941, when the Decima Flottiglia MAS of the Italian Navy attempted to destroy convoy units in the Grand Harbour as part of Operation Substance. Looking for a World War II history event in Malta this July? This Heritage Malta evening offers visitors the chance to learn more about the 1941 attack, the role of Fort St Elmo and the defence mounted by Maltese soldiers and coastal fortifications. The event will take place at one of Malta’s most important military heritage sites, with attendees meeting at the Fort St Elmo reception. Comfortable shoes are recommended. WHAT TO EXPECT Special evening event at Fort St Elmo Story of the 1941 Decima Flottiglia MAS attack Focus on Malta’s wartime defence during World War II Historic setting at the National War Museum Low availability event by Heritage Malta