Valletta,
The Fortress City, Citta' Umilissima, “a city built by gentlemen
for gentlemen” is Malta's capital city: a living, working city,
the administrative and commercial heart of the Islands.
Valletta is named after its founder, the respected Grand Master
of the Order of St John, Jean Parisot de la Valette. The
magnificent fortress city grew on the arid rock of Mount
Sceberras peninsula, which rises steeply from two deep harbours,
Marsamxett and Grand Harbour. Started in 1566, Valletta was
completed, with its impressive bastions, forts and cathedral, in
the astonishingly short time of 15 years.
Valletta has many titles, all
recalling its rich historical past. It is the “modern” city
built by the Knights of St John; a masterpiece of the Baroque; a
European Art City and a World Heritage City. Spanning an area of
just around 55 hectares it is one of the most concentrated
historic areas in the world.
The
city is busy by day, yet retains a timeless atmosphere. The grid
of narrow streets boasts some of Europe's finest art works,
churches and palaces.
Hosting a vast cultural programme,
walking around Valletta you’ll come across an intriguing
historical site around every corner: votive statues, niches,
fountains and coats of arms high up on parapets. Narrow side
streets are full of tiny, quaint, shops and cafés, while
Valletta’s main streets are lined with larger international
branded shops for fashion, music, jewellery and much more.
In
Malta, discovering 7000 years is easier than you think. The
Islands themselves are really one big heritage park. There are
open-air museums and indoor museums for every era from
prehistory to the story of Malta in World War II. With the
Knights of St John patrons of the arts for over 250 years,
you’ll find cultural masterpieces in museums, palaces and
churches across the Islands.
The Islands' museums have something for everyone, whether you're
browsing for leisure or wish to deepen a special interest. The
magnificent Baroque architecture and religious treasures as well
as evidence of the many wars and battles, offer the visitor a
glimpse into the spectacular history of the Islands.
Recommended Museum Visits in
Valletta
Casa Rocca Piccola
Manoel Theatre Museum
Museum of Archaeology
Museum of Fine Arts
National War Museum
Palace Armoury
St. John's Cathedral and Museum
