Valletta

4.34

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a splendid fortress city renowned for its exceptional Baroque architecture. Established in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, it stands as a testament to Malta's storied past, characterized by its formidable bastions, ramparts, and its strategic location on the island's eastern coast. Valletta’s historical significance is immense as it played a pivotal role in the Great Siege of 1565, where the Maltese Knights defended the island from the Ottoman Empire. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with cultural importance, drawing visitors to its artistic and architectural treasures.

Valletta is geographically positioned on the Sciberras Peninsula, surrounded by the Grand Harbour to the south and Marsamxett Harbour to the north. Its Mediterranean climate features hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it an appealing destination year-round. The city's layout is a grid of narrow streets, meticulously planned and emphasizing grandiosity and fortification.

Valletta is home to numerous notable landmarks, including St. John's Co-Cathedral, renowned for its opulent interiors and Caravaggio's painting 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist'. The Grandmaster's Palace, one of the earliest buildings in Valletta, showcases the grandeur of the Knights through its richly decorated rooms and extensive armoury. The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer spectacular panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities.

Culturally, Valletta is a vibrant center, hosting various art venues, including the Manoel Theatre, one of the oldest working theatres in Europe. The city observes several festivals like the Valletta International Baroque Festival, celebrating its musical heritage, and the Notte Bianca, an annual event where the city stays alive with music, dancing, and arts. One interesting aspect of Valletta is its connection to British history, having served as a key naval base during World War II. The city’s resilience during wartime earned Malta the George Cross for bravery from King George VI, a unique honor that is still displayed on the nation's flag.