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Turkish Military Cemetery

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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The Turkish Military Cemetery in Marsa, often referred to as the Turkish Cemetery, is an architectural gem and a unique testament to the historical ties between Malta and the Ottoman Empire. Commissioned by Sultan Abdülaziz and built between 1873 and 1874, it was created to provide a dignified resting place for Ottoman subjects and soldiers who died on the island. The cemetery was designed by the renowned Maltese architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia, who produced a masterpiece in the Orientalist style. The structure is characterized by its intricate stonework, horseshoe arches, and slender minarets, blending Islamic motifs with local globigerina limestone. Surrounded by a high boundary wall, the site features a majestic entrance gate and a serene interior layout. Although named a military cemetery, it has historically served as a general burial ground for the Muslim community in Malta. Today, it is recognized as a Grade 1 national monument and is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful cemeteries globally.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Church of the Madonna of Lourdes · Teatru Malta Rehearsal Room · Racecourse
Nearby: St. Helen's Basilica (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Turkish Military Cemetery is a historic site typically open to visitors during daytime. You can tour the grounds and the impressive Ottoman architecture.

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Typical hours

The cemetery usually has restricted opening hours that may vary by season. A prior inquiry with the Malta tourism office is recommended.

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Photography

Photography is allowed in the cemetery, but with respect for the site. Avoid taking photos during ceremonies and follow posted signs.

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Time needed

A visit takes about 30 minutes to an hour to appreciate the graves and architecture. If interested in history, allow more time.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with the nearby Marsa area, which has other historical sites. The Malta Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa is also not far.

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Getting there

The cemetery is well accessible by car, with parking in the area. Buses from Valletta go to the nearby Marsa stop, then a 10-minute walk.

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Insider tip

Visit the cemetery in the morning for the best photo light. Wear appropriate clothing as a sign of respect and remain quiet.

Geography

Coordinates

35.87500, 14.49670

Facts

Built between 1873 and 1874 at the request of Sultan Abdülaziz.
Designed by the prominent Maltese architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia.
A unique and prime example of Orientalist architecture in Malta.
Often referred to as the 'Taj Mahal of Malta' for its beauty.
Serves as a burial site for Muslims who pass away in Malta.
Protected as a Grade 1 national monument by Maltese law.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Marsa Horse Racing Track<1 km · WExplore →

Kordin III Temples1 km · EExplore →

Santa Luċija Parish Church2 km · SEExplore →

Ħamrun2 km · NWExplore →

Luqa Parish Church2 km · SWExplore →

Argotti Botanical Gardens2 km · NExplore →

DeDomenico Group2 km · WExplore →

Inquisitor's Palace3 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Turkish Military Cemetery (10)

Church of the Madonna of Lourdes

Church building in Paola, Malta, dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes.

Teatru Malta Rehearsal Room

Rehearsal room for Malta's national theatre company.

Racecourse

Horse racing track in Malta, venue for flat races.

Church of Saint Ubaldeska

Church in Malta, dedicated to Saint Ubaldeska.

Public Garden

Public garden in Malta, a green space for relaxation.

Holy Trinity Church

Church building in Marsa, Malta, dedicated to the Holy Trinity.

Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum🏛 museum

Neolithic subterranean structure in Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tempji ta' Kordin

Prehistoric temple ruins in Malta.

Chinese Garden of Serenity

Chinese garden located in Malta, designed in East Asian style.

Spencer Monument

Monument in Ħamrun, Malta, commemorating a historical figure.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is there a Turkish cemetery in Malta?

It was built in 1874 for Ottoman soldiers who died in Malta.

Who designed the cemetery?

The famous Maltese architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia designed this magnificent oriental structure.

Can you visit the cemetery?

Access is usually restricted, but the architecture can be admired well from the outside.

Where is the cemetery located?

It is located in Marsa, right next to the Jewish cemetery.

Is it considered a monument?

Yes, it is a Grade 1 protected national monument due to its unique architecture.

Turkish Military Cemetery: where is it located?

Turkish Military Cemetery is located in Malta.

Turkish Military Cemetery: what is there to see?

Highlights include Church of the Madonna of Lourdes, Teatru Malta Rehearsal Room, Racecourse.

Turkish Military Cemetery: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Turkish Military Cemetery: why is it worth visiting?

The Turkish Military Cemetery in Marsa, often referred to as the Turkish Cemetery, is an architectural gem and a unique testament to the historical ties between Malta and the Ottoman Empire.

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