The National War Museum in Fort St Elmo ranks among the most popular tourist venues on the Maltese Islands. The museum mainly represents Malta's important military role in the post-1800 period under British rule, especially during the Second World War. It was set up primarily through the efforts of dedicated enthusiasts, founders of the National War Museum Association, and was opened to the public in 1975.
The museum building was originally a powder magazine. Around 1853 it was converted into an armoury, serving during the Second World War to train anti-aircraft gun crews. Fort St Elmo, renowned for its role against incredible odds during the epic 1565 Great Siege, was extended over the years into a formidable fortress. During the Second World War, it was once more the scene of heroic action by Maltese defenders against relentless enemy action.

A key feature of the museum is the numerous photographic panels depicting the harsh conditions prevailing in Malta during the crucial War years 1940-1943. These show clearly the hardships endured by the civilian population, the massive extent of war damage, the unhealthy living conditions within primitive underground shelters and above all, the heroic gallantry of a people who withstood the prolonged siege and the suffering it brought.

Several principal exhibits are displayed in the main hall. Among other War relics are the Italian E-Boat, a Bofors anti-aircraft gun, the Willis Jeep 'Husky', and the Gloster Gladiator 'Faith'. Also on display are the George Cross, awarded to Malta by King George VI, the Book of Remembrance of civilians and servicemen killed during the years 1940-43, and the illuminated Scroll presented to the "People and Defenders of Malta", by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943.

Certainly worth examining are the prestigious awards and decorations received by Maltese servicemen and civilians during the Second World War for acts of bravery and sacrifice far beyond the call of duty.

The left annex is mainly dedicated to the Royal Navy, where various uniforms, insignia and equipment are displayed. Special sections highlight prominent episodes such as the famous Malta convoys. The principal exhibits in the air hall are a section of a Spitfire, a Junkers Juno engine and a Messerschmitt wing. Also displayed are propellers, armaments, instruments, as well as relics and pictorial material relating to Axis raids.

Due credit is given to the contribution of the civilian population. Various photographs depict the role of the Civil Service, the Church, the Dockyard, the Police, the Air Raid Precautions Organisation, the Special Constabulary, the Home Guard, the Boy Scouts and other Maltese men and women.

Throughout its long and eventful history Malta endured countless wars, and the story of Malta during the Second World War is one of the greatest dramas of history. The War Museum records the significant part played by Malta that earned the Island its reputation as the Fortress Island.