St John's Co-Cathedral
Valletta's magnificent medieval cathedral is famous
for the painting by Caravaggio, which hangs in its oratory, and the
369 inlaid mosaic marble tombstones that cover the floor. Each
tombstone depicts the lives of the Grand Masters of the Order of St
John, buried beneath. The façade is rather sever and militaristic.
Yet inside, the cathedral is lavishly splendid in the grandest
tradition of high Baroque. Carvings cover every each of wall, while
the vaulted ceiling sports paintings depicting the life of St John
the Baptist, patron saint of the Knights. The cathedral benefitted
greatly over the centuries from many donations given by the Knights
and their Grand Masters. Some of the most impressive works of art
were gifts from the order. It's still an active place of worship,
with frequent services, and also operates as a beautiful venue for
cultural events. The stunningly ornate cathedral is an exceptional
sight and a must for tourist in Malta. Guided tours and rented
audio guides help to greatly enrich the experience. Travellers
should be sure to check the website for visiting hours to avoid
disappointment.
View of St John's Cathedral
Briangotts
Palace of the Grandmaster
The Grandmaster's Palace, built around 1571, today serves as the
office of the President and seat of the Maltese Parliament. When
parliament is not in session, the palace and its State Rooms are
open to the public. The palace is a treasure trove of art, from the
unique collection of Gobelin Tapestries to frescoes depicting the
Great Siege of 1565 by Perez d'Aleccio that cover the walls of the
Halls of St Michael and St George. The Knights decorated the palace
richly and elaborately, conscious of showing off their wealth and
influence. For visitors, exploring splendid chambers like the Hall
of the Supreme Council of the Knights is thrilling. Visitors can
also view the Armoury and state apartments adorned with friezes
depicting the history of the Order of the Knights of St John. The
Armoury is perhaps the greatest attraction of the palace and it
boasts one of the largest collections of its kind in the world.
Malta has a tumultuous history and the Armoury holds the assorted
weaponry of centuries of invasions, sieges, and battles, making it
a paradise for military history buffs. Guided tours are available
and wonderful audio guides offer comprehensive commentary.
Throne Room
Marie-Lan Nguyen
National Museum of Archaeology
The National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta houses one of the
inns of the Knights of St John: the Auburge de Provence. The
establishment's focus on Malta's prehistory includes displays such
as the reconstruction of prehistoric remains found at the Hypogeum.
Pottery, sculptures, statuettes, stone tools, and jewellery from
the prehistoric, megalithic, and temple-building periods feature.
Punic and Roman tomb furniture are also present, with all exhibits
sourced from excavations across the Maltese islands. The age of
some artefacts is staggering. Only those interested in archaeology
will fully appreciate the wonders on offer, its treasures wasted on
those easily bored by ancient histories and cultures. Young
children especially should give it a skip. The collection is
well-maintained and labelled, with exhibitions in chronological
order.
Sleeping Lady at the National Museum of
Archaeology
Jvdc
Lascaris War Rooms
Valletta suffered great damage during World War II
bombing raids. The war defence of Malta took place in the Lascaris
War Rooms, with the island always holding a strategic military
importance far out of proportion to its size, Some of the most
famous battles fought in the Mediterranean during the war were
coordinated from these headquarters, a 17th-century underground
complex of tunnels and chambers. Now restored, it acts as a museum
with displays of charts, models, and dioramas. It's fascinating to
see all the old wartime paraphernalia and to explore the once top
secret military operating rooms. Guides are enthusiastic and
well-informed volunteers who greatly enrich the experience. Tours
are conducted in English and take 75 minutes, after which visitors
can freely stroll the grounds.
Lascaris War Rooms
Charlie Dave
Malta Experience
The Malta Experience is a dramatic presentation that illustrates
the history of Malta, from Neolithic to modern times. Shown at the
Mediterranean Conference Centre at St Elmo's bastion in Valletta,
the building originally served as a hospital by the Knights of St
John in the 1500s. Wards are now great sweeping halls with vaulted
ceilings and marble floors, functioning as exhibition areas. A
modern theatre the Malta Experience audio-visual show in 17
different languages. The show is a sweeping expose of 7,000 years
of history covering the original stone-age inhabitants, the
Phoenicians, the Romans, the Knights of St John, and the nation's
modern history. It is as entertaining as it is educational. Indeed,
the Malta Experience is a great way to begin a holiday in Malta as
it provides an overview of the archipelagos' dramatic history and
greatly enriches the sightseeing to come. This is particularly
useful as not all sites on the islands have detailed information
for tourists. The documentary also offers great insight into the
Maltese culture and people. About 45 minutes long, the Malta
Experience is immensely popular and more than four million visitors
have seen it since its opening.
Valletta
Frank Vincentz
Three Cities
Malta's main maritime towns have merged into a
fortified conglomerate known as the Three Cities, resting on the
promontories opposite Valletta. Vittoriosa is the oldest town in
Malta after Mdina, featuring plenty of historical architecture,
including several of the Inns of the Knights of St John. There is
also a hospital built by the Order in 1672, in which still lives a
Benedictine convent of devout nuns. Dating from 1274, Fort St
Angelo is the oldest fortified part of Vittoriosa and stands at the
tip of the promontory. Additionally, the Museum of Maritime History
is well worth a visit. Founded in 1717, Cospicua is the youngest of
the Three Cities and features some fascinating churches. Senglea,
designed by Grand Master De La Sengle in 1551, exists as an
important pilgrimage destination. Its parish church contains a
statue of Christ the Redeemer, said to have miraculous powers.
There are many great restaurants and bars in the Three Cities and
the marina area is becoming increasingly popular. The best way to
explore is on a walking tour, wandering through the old districts
and discovering unexpected joys and treasures. Apart from the rich
history, the Three Cities are famous for their residents'
enthusiastic celebration of holy days and festas. The most exciting
of these is the Easter procession, when status of Jesus Christ are
carried at a run through crowded strets.
Senglea
Frank Vincentz
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Just southwest of the Three Cities in the suburb of
Paolo, the Hypogeum is a labyrinthine limestone complex of man-made
chambers extending some 36 feet (11m) below the surface. Experts
believe it was a burial site and temple for Neolithic humans who
used antlers and stones to carve it out more than 5,000 years ago.
It's comprised of several interconnecting chambers on three
distinct levels. Used over a span of many centuries, the oldest
remains at the site date back to about 4,000 BC. The site is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Archaeologists have recovered numerous
statues, amulets, figurines, and vases, many of which are on
display in the Archaeological Museum in Valletta. The Hypogeum has
been open to the public since 1908 and the droves of visitors have
unfortunately had a negative impact on the ancient environment.
Now, only eight tours a day take place with 10 people permitted on
each tour. They are often booked up weeks in advance so tickets
should be booked early to avoid disappointment. The tours are more
or less an hour long and provide audio guides.
Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni
Richard Ellis
Hagar Qim
Haqar Qim is a prehistoric temple complex located in western
Malta. Discovered in 1839, it dates back to around 3,000 BC and
boast some of the oldest human structures on the planet. The Hagar
Qim and nearby Mnajdra ruins are close to the village of Qrendi,
about nine miles (15km) southwest of Valletta. The megalithic
temples are carved from giant limestone slabs, housing sacrificial
altars, oracular chambers, and carved animals and idols, themselves
fashioned by flint and obsidian. The largest megalith is 23 feet
(7m) high and weighs about 20 tons. Although the ancient ruins of
Malta are generally called temples, very little is actually known
about their purpose. Many of the relics recovered from the Hagar
Qim site, including the famous Venus of Malta and her accompanying
fat lady statues, are on display in the National Museum of
Archaeology in Valletta. Unlike some of the other temples on Malta,
Hagar Qim has an impressive visitors' centre that offers plenty of
background information through interactive displays. While there
are shelters around the site to protect one from the elements, they
hardly detract from the otherworldly experience of the ruins.
Hagar Qim
ERWEH
The Mediterranean climate of Valletta ensures the weather is hot
and dry during summer (June to September) and slightly cooler in
winter (December to March). Summer temperatures often exceed 84ºF
(30ºC), but the heat tends to be tempered by refreshing sea
breezes.
In spring and autumn, the hot Xlokk wind sometimes brings high
temperatures and humidity but the weather is generally pleasant,
hot, and sunny. Winters are mild, with temperatures averaging
between about 50°F (10°C) and 59°F (15°C). Valletta experiences
little rainfall, with it generally occurring only in winter. The
city never gets any snow.
Valletta is a year-round holiday destination, as even the damp
winter is mild enough to be pleasant for a sightseeing vacation. In
fact, many tourists prefer to avoid the swelteringly hot summer in
favour of the milder shoulder seasons, when it is also less
crowded.
The best time to visit Valletta is probably in March, April,
May, or September, but the peak tourist season is still the summer,
between June and August. Winter is a good time to visit because it
is slightly cheaper, less crowded and never really cold.
Malta Carnival
Spring is carnival time in Malta. Carnival week, with its
traditional boisterous revelry, centres on the capital Valletta,
but cities, towns, and villages across Malta host their own
carnival celebrations and sometimes the smaller local festivities
are the most authentic and charming.
Carnival includes extravagant, gaudy floats, fancy dress, lots
of live music and marching bands, and some wild nightlife in the
Paceville club area. The tradition is said to have started in 1560,
when a massed Christian armada became harbour-bound in Malta and
some jollification ashore ensued.
Carnival is a wonderfully festive time to visit Malta and
foreigners are welcomed into the revelry, especially if they
embrace the spirit of the event and arrive in outrageous costumes.
Children will also enjoy carnival and the parades and floats
particularly delight the local kids, who dress up even more
enthusiastically than the adult party animals.
Weather-wise, February and March happen to be a good time to
visit Malta as it is sunny but not yet swelteringly hot. If you are
planning a springtime holiday in Malta, design your itinerary
around the carnival. Valletta can get crowded during the festival
but not unpleasantly so.
![Malta Carnival]()
Malta Carnival
Michael
Malta International Fireworks Festival
The Malta Fireworks Festival is an exciting event held annually
at the Grand Harbour in Valletta. The event is organised by the
Ministry for Tourism and the Malta Tourism Authority, commemorating
Malta's inclusion into the European Union which took place on 1 May
2004.
The best of local talent from Malta's fireworks factories
compete with foreign pyrotechnic companies to thrill audiences with
a visual feast. The highlight of the festival is the 'History of
Malta' laser show, featuring exceptional fireworks displays
accompanied by invigorating music.
The fireworks light up the night sky to reveal stunning views of
the nearby St Angelo, Ricasoli, and St Elmo forts, and illuminate
the city in a sparkling and magical way. The fireworks are visible
from many vantage points but perhaps the best place to watch the
display is from the Barriera Wharf in Valletta.
The Malta Fireworks Festival is open to the public and
completely free of charge. April is a good time of year to visit
Malta as the autumn weather is pleasant and sunny and tourists
holidaying in Malta over this period would be mad not to attend
this wonderful festival.
Venue:
Lascaris Wharf, Grand Harbour
![Fireworks]()
Fireworks
Chandana12
Malta Jazz Festival
Every year, a number of world-renowned jazz musicians gather in
Valletta to entertain enthusiasts with a classy selection of live
performances. The Malta Jazz Festival has been running for about 25
years, enjoying much critical acclaim and great support from locals
and foreigners alike.
The event occurs annually during the third weekend of July and
the main venue is the open-air Ta'Liesse in Valletta. The programme
includes an array of the best contemporary jazz artists and the
festival is fun for both the uninitiated and aficionados. In fact,
it is a wonderful way to learn a bit about the genre.
In the past, performances have included some famous jazz
musicians such as John Scofield, Al Di Meola, and Dee Dee
Bridgewater. The days preceding and following the festival show off
a number of fringe events, including open-air concerts, and are
held in venues all over the city. For more information, check the
official website.
Venue:
Grand Harbour, Valletta
![Ian Ritchie at the Malta Jazz
Festival]()
Ian Ritchie at the Malta Jazz
Festival
Paul Zammit Cutajar
![]()
Valletta's attractions revolve mostly around its
architecture, with a number of churches, cathedrals, and other
sacred sites taking centre stage. There are other interesting
buildings, including historical residences, palaces, and forts,
some lavishly displaying the wealth of artwork donated by the
Knights of St John.
Attractions in Valletta include the Palace of the
Grand Master, St John's Co-Cathedral, the Lascaris War Rooms, and,
just outside of the city, the remarkable ancient sites of Hagar Qim
and the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. Tourists should also be sure to
explore the historic Three Cities.
For first-time visitors who don't know much about the
country, The Malta Experience is worth considering. It provides a
great overview of the country's history and culture in roughly half
an hour. If you are travelling to Valletta with children, there are
some fun attractions and excursions to enjoy, including Popeye
Village and the Splash & Fun Water Park.
Perched on top of Mount Sceberras and surrounded by
the sea on three sides, Valletta has many beautiful views. While
there are no sandy beaches within the city itself, the docks and
harbour fronts are pleasant areas to stroll along. But beyond the
city lie sandy coves if one wants to feel the beach between their
toes. Lastly, St George's Square puts on an evening show with
jumping fountains and coloured lights, making a perfect ending to a
day of sightseeing.
Mdina
Known as the Noble City, Mdini was the original
capital of Malta before the arrival of the Knights of St John in
the Middle Ages. Initially a Phoenician town, it underwent periods
of Roman, Arbaic and Norman occupation. Situated on a rocky outcrop
about nine miles (15km) west of Valletta, the elegant walled
settlement can trace its origins back more than 4,000 years.
Although today, all that remains is the largely restored medieval
town. At the heart of Mdina is the landmark Baroque Cathedral of St
Paul. While the Knights reigned over Malta the city became the home
of the Maltese nobility, who lived there under autonomous rule and
deemed unworthy of joining the Order of St John. Descendants of
some of these families still live in the city. Mdina and the
ancient suburb of Rabat not only offer some fascinating and
valuable sightseeing opportunities, but also come alive in their
own unique ways when the sun sets. Lamplight accompany ambient
evenings spent in restaurants, tucked away in bastions and palace
courtyards. Motor vehicles are banned inside the city walls, and
pedestrians have free reign to walk the streets and take in this
precious site of Maltese heritage.
![Mdina]()
Mdina
Mxpule
St Mary's Church
A beautiful church usually occupies the centre of
every Maltese town and village. One of the most impressive of these
is St Mary's in the central Maltese town of Mosta, also known as
the Rotunda of Mosta or the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady,
which has a glorious blue, gold and white dome. The unsupported
dome is one of the largest found anywhere in the world, with a
design visibly inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. Construction on
the church began in May 1833 and ultimately ended in the 1860s.
Many say that St Mary's Church was the site of a World War II
miracle: in 1942, while 300 people were praying in the church, a
bomb crashed through the dome and landed on the mosaic floor, but
did not explode. A replica of the bomb is today displayed in the
church sacristy. This famous miracle draws many pilgrims and
curious tourists to the church, but the ornate interior is reason
enough for a visit. The church has a fine collection of religious
art, including one of the largest collections of paintings by the
famous Maltese artist Guzeppi Cali. The church is still an active
place of worship and visitors are welcome to attend services. Entry
to the church is free but donations are welcome. The church is
usually closed between 12pm and 3pm.
![St Mary's Church]()
St Mary's Church
Vask
Popeye Village
Also known as Sweethaven, Popeye Village is the
actual set used in the 1908s musical of Popeye starring Robin
Williams and Shelly Duvall. Since then, the set has grown into one
of the country's major tourist attractions and is a must for those
travelling with children in Malta. Kids can wander around the
authentic wooden buildings such as the bakery, post office, and
school house. But there's also lots of fun activities for the whole
family, including meeting famous cartoon characters, boat rides,
water trampolines, sun bathing decks, and games. The park now
boasts the Popeye Comic Museum, showcasing more than a hundred
original comics dating back to 1936. Sweethaven hosts fun stuff for
kids but also organises adult events like team building exercises
upon request. The little village is gorgeously situated and quite
charming. The opening times and activities vary according to the
season so it's best to check the official website for information
before visiting in order to avoid disappointment.
![Popeye Village]()
Popeye Village
luigi53
View of St John's Cathedral
Briangotts
Throne Room
Marie-Lan Nguyen
Sleeping Lady at the National Museum of
Archaeology
Jvdc
Lascaris War Rooms
Charlie Dave
Valletta
Frank Vincentz
Senglea
Frank Vincentz
Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni
Richard Ellis
Hagar Qim
ERWEH
Malta Carnival
Michael
Fireworks
Chandana12
Ian Ritchie at the Malta Jazz
Festival
Paul Zammit Cutajar
Mdina
Mxpule
St Mary's Church
Vask
Popeye Village
luigi53
