Verdala castle was transformed into a battle scene spanning the different ages and rulers who conquered the Maltese islands.
Families, children and militia enthusiasts took advantage of the pleasant summer weather and visited the Rabat grounds, which form part of the President’s summer residence, to watch and savour camp life across the centuries.
Organised by the Historical Re-enactment Group of Malta, enthusiasts led the crowds through a journey of 2,000 years of military history, transforming the castle’s grounds into Roman, medieval and a British 18th century camps complete with costumes, weapons and tents.
Scenes from the medieval times were brought back to life by the Show of Arms Society whose members make it a point to research and study costumes, weapons, equipment and lifestyle related to the era.
The Legio Decimae Fretensis Malta recreated the life of the Romans and the Historical Re-enactment Group highlighted life before the arrival of the French in Malta.
The WWII Re-enactment Group featured life during the war. Its members tried to recreate the life of Maltese soldiers who formed part of the Royal Malta Artillery, the King’s Own Malta Regiment and German troops.
Wearing period costumes and heavy armour, soldiers re-enacted spectacular battle scenes from the Napoleonic, medieval and WW II eras with about 120 Roman legionnaires, medieval knights and soldiers.
All proceeds from the two-day event, held under the patronage of President George Abela, will go towards the Malta Community Chest Fund.