Malta Classic Car Collection Museum
Introduction
The Malta Classic Car Collection Museum, located in Qawra near St. Paul’s Bay in Malta, is a charming showcase of automotive history. Nestled on Tourists Street, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the golden age of motoring. It invites visitors to explore an impressive array of meticulously restored vintage cars and motorcycles in a warm and inviting setting.
About the Museum
Founded by devoted car enthusiast Mr Carol Galea, the museum is built on his lifelong passion—from building custom vehicles for hill climbs to assembling a “living and growing collection spanning more than fifty years of motor manufacturing”. Housed within approximately 3,000 square metres over two floors (accessible by lift and stairs), the museum offers a thoughtfully staged experience filled with gleaming chrome, powerful V‑8 engines, and the unmistakable allure of steel craftsmanship .
On display are over 100 lovingly restored classic vehicles—including Jaguars, Alfa Romeos, Fiats, Corvettes, Mercedes, MGs, Lotus, Triumphs, and many more—from the 1940s to the 1970s . A remarkable selection of motorcycles and scooters, numbering around 45, also enriches the collection.
The museum also features an immersive backdrop of historic memorabilia—gramophones, jukeboxes, vintage televisions, era‑appropriate fashion, and more—to evoke the atmosphere of mid‑20th‑century life. Informational panels beside each vehicle describe dates, variants, production runs, and stories of how each came into the collection, reinforcing the belief that “every car tells a story”.
Mr Galea sadly passed away in June 2021, but the museum continues under the stewardship of his son, Mark Galea—a renowned racing and stunt driver—and daughter, Mandy Buhagiar, who oversees the business aspects.
Interesting Facts
- More than 100 classic vehicles: Over 100 cars and approximately 45 motorcycles are exhibited in pristine, road‑worthy condition.
- Historic memorabilia collection: The museum includes era furnishings and technology—such as jukeboxes, gramophones, antique televisions, and clothing from the 1940s to 1960s—creating an immersive experience.
- Original restoration workshop: A professional on‑site team of seven continues the restoration and upkeep work that Mr Galea began himself.
- Family legacy: Following the founder’s passing, his children Mark and Mandy have maintained and grown the vision—Mark is an international racing and stunt driver, while Mandy brings entrepreneurial acumen.
- Educational mission: The museum aims “to educate and entertain visitors whilst creating awareness about the preservation of classic cars”.
- Immersive facilities: The premises include a Sicilian‑style café with disabled‑access restrooms, a gift shop, cinema space, and wheelchair‑friendly infrastructure—including ramps, lifts, and accessible routes.
- Visitor duration: Guests are advised to allow at least ninety minutes to fully appreciate the museum’s offerings.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Contact Details
Phone: +3562 157 8885
Website: classiccarsmalta.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/MaltaClassicCarMuseum/
Conclusion
The Malta Classic Car Collection Museum is more than a display of vintage vehicles—it is a living testament to a family’s passion and dedication to automotive heritage. From gleaming Jaguars and Alfa Romeos to iconic British roadsters and Italian microcars, every corner reveals a story. The careful restoration, thoughtful contextual displays, and the palpable atmosphere of nostalgia make it a compelling destination for car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
With its family legacy carried on by Mark and Mandy Galea, accessible design, and film‑worthy interiors, it offers an educational and profoundly emotional experience. Whether you are reliving memories of classic motoring or discovering them anew, this museum invites you to step inside, slow down the pace, and appreciate the artistry and culture of motoring’s golden age.
