Vittoriosa re-lives wartime days

Vittoriosa took on a spooky look on Friday with another edition of the popular Birgu By Candlelight festival, which again drew thousands of people despite changing weather conditions.

Many of the narrow streets were lined by hundreds of candles, giving the mediaeval maritime city a magical atmosphere.

This year's festival had Vittoriosa's role in World War II as its central theme, with re-enactors dressed in period uniforms and costumes performing gun drills and going about the activities common in Vittoriosa between 1940 and 1942.

Activities, which were not all restricted to the central theme, included music, theatrical representations and dance, a concert of sacred music, an exhibition of vehicles by the Military Vehicle Collectors Club and guided tours, including the popular Ghost Tour.

Various attractions were open late into the night including the Malta at War Museum and the Inquisitor's Palace.

Traditional food was served in the main square.

Birgu By Candlelight was organised by the Ministry for Tourism and Culture in collaboration with the Vittoriosa local council and supported by the Malta Tourism Authority.