The Corsair and Piracy Museum Reopens after Extensive Structural Work

Last Updated on 30 June 2026

The Corsair and Piracy Museum is housed in St. Thomas Tower in Marsascala. The museum is the very first on the island that’s dedicated to corsairs and pirates. By offering interactive exhibits, authentic artefacts, and media displays, visitors are immersed in exhibits that show what life was like at the time. Admission is only €3, and you can also combine your entry with the Lascaris War Rooms or Fort Rinella.

The Museum has Undergone a €3.39 Million Renovation

The museum invites visitors to explore the island’s relationship with piracy. The renovation was funded by the European Union, and a 17th-century watch tower has been fully transformed into a multi-sensory exhibit. This helps to give valuable insight into the maritime history of Malta, as well as preserving the culture of the island and what it’s known for. 

Audiences in the modern age are still fascinated with pirates, so culturally relevant renovations like this are incredibly important. Black Sails helped to put a spotlight on the darker side of pirates and smugglers, and beyond television, there’s also The Pirate History Podcast. National Geographic’s Pirates: Behind the Legends also offers a refreshing take on pirates. In iGaming casino slots like Corsair’s Triumph also showcase the Barbary corsairs who operated in the Mediterranean Sea. 

Iconic imagery, including golden coins, skulls and crossbones, and pirate ships are used to make the game stand out as a homage to the Golden Age of Piracy. Scottish heavy metal band Alestorm has also built an international fan base with its pirate-themed lyrics and stage outfits, demonstrating how even though the age of piracy may have ended, it’s still very much part of our world.

Ottoman Pirates Often Raided Malta’s Shores

At the start of the 15th century, the island of Malta was targeted by corsairs. Knights of St John were responsible for sinking the vessels and capturing the goods. Historical records show that Maltese corsairs captured 338 prize ships, carrying valuable cargo that ranged from grain to textiles and spices. 

To defend against unforeseen attacks, six watchtowers were created, with St Thomas being the largest. The fortress now serves a new purpose, as it now tells the story and history of the area, but with a new and interactive lens. The redevelopment is to try and embrace cultural heritage and also incorporates sustainable features, including smart climate control systems, energy-efficient lighting and rainwater harvesting.

By restoring important fortifications like this, Malta is not only preserving its history; it’s also defining its identity for generations to come. The interactive tech at the museum features projection mapping as well as educational storyboards. 

There are also local naval battles which have been explored, including when the Maltese reclaimed the tower from the French, which took place in 1798. You can find out more about that on the Museum St John website.

The tower has over 400 years of history, and the fact that extensive renovations have now been carried out means that interest in Malta’s history has been renewed and that so many people are coming together to ensure that it’s protected for years to come.