Marking the fulfilment of this treaty, the remaining British Forces left Malta on the 31st of March 1979. That day, Malta became independent de facto (by fact) and de jure (by law), appropriately being christened as Freedom Day.
Freedom Day
31st March 1979
After the events of the French Blockade in 1800, the British Empire eventually gained full sovereignty over Malta and its people. Malta spent over 150 years under the British rule, a period that has shaped Malta’s cultural heritage through the years, with some influences being strongly present to this day. After Malta’s effort and bravery in the Second World War, negotiations for the country’s independence were being discussed.
However, even though Malta officially achieved Independence on the 21st September 1964, a treaty with the British Empire remained in full force until Malta became a Republic a decade later. This treaty stated that Malta, now an Independent Sovereign State and a member of the Commonwealth, would still serve as a British Military base with the Queen of Malta, Elizabeth II, acting as a Head of State.
Picture: HMS Sheffield and the White Star Line Britannic behind in Valletta Grand Harbour, Malta, 1957.
Upon being re-elected into power in 1971, the Labour Government worked towards re-negotiating this constitutional treaty, making Malta a Republic in 1974. This amended treaty allowed British troops and the Royal Navy, to use Malta as a naval base, effectively maintaining Malta’s ties with the United Kingdom through both financial and defensive support.
Picture: Dom Mintoff on his way to light the torch at the Freedom Monument
Freedom Day
Freedom Day is a Maltese national holiday celebrated annually on the 31st of March. This holiday marks the day when Malta officially became free from British occupation.
31st March
Commemorating Freedom Day
Freedom Day marks a significant chapter in Malta's history, celebrated annually with ceremonies held in various locations across the island. This national event honours Malta’s journey to full independence and the end of foreign military presence, bringing communities together to reflect on the country’s hard-won sovereignty.
In preparation for Freedom Day, the Malta Police Force and the Armed Forces of Malta host an annual musical display at St. George’s Square in Valletta. This event is followed by a series of commemorative ceremonies held at the War Memorial in Floriana and the Freedom Day Monument in Vittoriosa. During these ceremonies, government officials and dignitaries, including the President, Prime Minister, and Opposition Leader, lay floral tributes at the memorials and deliver speeches in remembrance. The ceremonies also feature a band march by the Armed Forces of Malta, concluding with the Maltese National Anthem.
One of the most anticipated events of Freedom Day is the Regatta organized by the Malta Rowing Association. This lively competition brings together rowing teams from coastal towns across Malta, including Valletta, Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla), who face off in thrilling races within the iconic Grand Harbour. Following the races, the prestigious honorary shield is awarded to the top-ranking teams, celebrating their skill and the spirit of friendly rivalry among Malta's coastal communities.