The battle of Fort Rinella draws the crowds

Fort Rinella yesterday provided the setting for a Victorian Garrison Day, one of two annual events, organised by Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna and aimed mainly at the Maltese public.

The special re-enactment showed how the cavalry fought in the late 19th century, using horse-mounted troops. It involved the participation of two horses and about 25 volunteer re-enactors, FWA executive president Mario Farrugia said.

The event also featured the infantry and artillery, which included the firing of an original, eight-inch, seven-ton Howitzer - a short-barrelled cannon, used to lob shells high up in the air to hit targets hidden away from the line of sight, Mr Farrugia explained. He was pleased with the "excellent" turnout in the morning and particularly with the number of children who attended the event.

The special re-enactment lasted about an hour-and-a-half and the price was reduced to encourage more and more locals to attend, he said.

Fort Rinella is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays to Fridays and until 1 p.m. on Sundays in summer with re-enactments every day at 2.30 p.m., except for Sunday.