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.
Bengt Nyman, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.jpg){kind=link}
MaltaEurope
Nearby Places
Mdina(10 km)
Historical fortified city of Malta, blending medieval and baroque heritage in a serene, noble atmosphere.Ggantija Temples(27 km)
Ancient megalithic temple complex on Gozo, Malta, offering insights into Neolithic architecture and culture.Syracuse(149 km)
Ancient Greek colonial capital in Sicily, featuring remarkable historical landmarks and vibrant cultural festivals.Valley of the Temples(175 km)
Best-preserved Greek temple complex outside Greece at Agrigento with Temple of Concordia.Mount Etna(210 km)
Europe's highest and most active volcano with lunar landscapes accessible from Taormina and Catania.Palermo(267 km)
Norman-Arab capital with Byzantine mosaics, Monreale Cathedral, baroque churches, and vibrant street markets.Log in to write a review.
Sustainable Travel Tips
Plan Mindfully
- Choose direct flights when possible
- Travel during off-peak seasons
- Pack light and bring reusables
- Prefer eco-friendly accommodations
At Your Destination
- Use public transport or walk
- Support local businesses
- Respect wildlife and habitats
- Choose activities with minimal impact
Daily Habits
- Reuse hotel towels
- Take shorter showers
- Turn off lights/AC when out
- Carry a reusable water bottle