Explore Gudja’s Wartime Role This Weekend

Explore Gudja’s wartime role and what is likely to have happened if Axis troops landed in Malta, during the upcoming event  “Difiza: Il-Gudja fil-Gwerra” on 12 November at Ta’ Loretu, Gudja

The tranquil town of Gudja, with its proximity to a key RAF airfield, was already witness to Malta’s defence from the beginning of the Second World War. However, the town and its inhabitants would have found themselves on the battle front had the Axis plans to invade Malta materialised in 1942. This is what the upcoming event seeks to illustrate. 

Visitors will be transported back to the wartime years as experienced re-enactors from “Battlefront Malta” provide an accurate insight into the role played by British units stationed around Gudja with their HQ at Palazzo Dorell. Who were these men and what regiments were they serving in? Which arms did they use for Malta’s defence? However, Battlefront Malta will go beyond that and show us the other side of the coin. Which Axis units would have been deployed in the assault? Who were the men and what were their weapons? Naturally, the civilian role should not be forgotten. Life had to go on and so did the culture of the people who lived in Gudja. 

The journey through time continues with two historical bike tours. These tours are thoughtfully crafted to showcase the airfield defences and other significant historical landmarks in Gudja. Whether you are an avid learner or simply curious, these tours offer a unique opportunity to explore and discover the rich history of this fascinating town. Moreover, as the day unfolds, attendees will have the chance to delve deeper into the local lore by partaking in tours around the Ta’ Loretu area. Each step through this region is a step back in time, offering a tangible connection to the living history of Gudja.

There will be a variety of activities to engage attendees of all ages. Younger guests can enjoy traditional games, while others can attend a reenactment of how Royal Engineers handled the unexploded bombs in Malta during the war era. Weapons demonstrations will showcase the array of firearms that played a pivotal role in Gudja’s defence, while a presentation will explain the specifics of various Axis and Allied firearms. 

“Difiza: Il-Gudja fil-Gwerra” is set to be an unforgettable experience with static displays as well as the battle re-enactments. This is in addition to tours and other associated events that aim to educate while preserving the heritage of the town and the memory of its inhabitants and its defenders. 

This event is organised by the Southern Regional Council, Gudja Local Council and Battlefront Malta with the participation of SKALI Gudja and MOVE.

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