Malta George Cross Memorial

Malta George Cross Memorial is a Second World War memorial in the City of London, dedicated to the island of Malta and its long siege from 1940 to 1943. It stands on Byward Street, in the grounds of the church of All Hallows-by-the-Tower, a short walk from the Tower of London. Locals and guidebooks also call it the Maltese Memorial.

What does it commemorate?

In April 1942 King George VI awarded the George Cross to Malta as a whole, a rare honour given to an entire population for its courage under relentless air attack. This monument marks that moment. The main panel records roughly 7,000 lives lost during the siege, among them Maltese civilians and service personnel from Allied and Commonwealth forces.

What will you see?

The memorial is a single upright block of limestone quarried on Gozo, the second-largest island of the Maltese archipelago. It rises about 3 metres and weighs 8.5 tons. Each of its four sides carries a black slate panel. A Maltese cross sits above the main inscription. Other panels reproduce the King's 1942 message to Malta's governor, a map showing Mediterranean Fleet operations, and a tribute from President Roosevelt. Walk all the way round, since each face tells a different part of the story.

Who built it, and when?

The Government of Malta supplied the stone, and the George Cross Island Association erected the memorial for the 60th anniversary of the war's end. Malta's President, Eddie Fenech Adami, unveiled it on 15 August 2005, and Vincent Nichols dedicated it.

How do you get there?

The nearest Underground stop is Tower Hill (District and Circle lines), and Tower Gateway on the DLR is just as close. From either, expect a walk of a few minutes towards Byward Street. From the entrance to the Tower of London it takes even less. All Hallows-by-the-Tower is next door, so the two fit easily into one stroll.

When should you visit?

The memorial is outdoors and open to view at any hour, with no ticket needed. It pairs well with a morning at the Tower of London or a walk to Tower Bridge. Weekday mornings bring City commuters through the area, while weekends are calmer. Daylight makes the slate inscriptions easiest to read.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entry fee?

No. It is a public monument you can visit free at any time of day.

Where exactly is it?

In the City of London on Byward Street (EC3), beside All Hallows-by-the-Tower and close to the Tower of London.

What is it made of?

One block of Gozo limestone, around 3 metres tall and weighing 8.5 tons, with four black slate inscription panels.

How long does a visit take?

Ten to fifteen minutes is enough to read all four panels. Add the neighbouring church and you will spend about an hour.