Valletta is the capital city of Malta, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rich historical and cultural significance. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, it is known for its well-preserved fortifications, Baroque architecture, and narrow cobblestone streets.
Notable landmarks include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio’s masterpiece “The Beheading of St. John,” and the Grand Master’s Palace, which serves as the office of the President of Malta. Also, the city’s Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens provide panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.
A blend of old and new, Valletta hosts numerous cultural events, including the annual Valletta Film Festival and the Valletta International Baroque Festival. Its compact size, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene make Valletta a unique destination in the Mediterranean.
The Best Places to Visit in Valletta
St. John’s Co-Cathedral
St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a monumental Baroque church in Valletta, Malta, built by the Knights of St. John between 1573 and 1577. A masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture, the cathedral houses some of the most impressive works by Caravaggio, including “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist.” The cathedral’s interior, richly adorned with intricate gold leaf and marble inlays, embodies the wealth and artistic patronage of the Knights. It’s a significant historical and cultural landmark within Malta’s capital city.
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Madonna tal-Karmnu (Our Lady of Mount Carmel)
The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Madonna tal-Karmnu) in Valletta features a prominent dome and neoclassical façade. Originally built in the 16th century and rebuilt in 1981, it houses a revered statue of the Virgin Mary. The richly decorated interior includes several side chapels. Celebrated annually in July, the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel draws large crowds.
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St. Paul’s Cathedral (Valletta)
St. Paul’s Cathedral in Valletta, also known as the St. Paul’s Pro-Cathedral, is an Anglican church located in the Maltese capital. Completed in 1844, it’s one of three cathedrals in Malta and serves as the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Gibraltar in Europe. The Cathedral’s neo-classical design, characterized by a tall spire visible across Valletta, stands distinct among the city’s predominantly Baroque architecture. Its interior contains notable monuments and memorials, offering insights into the British period in Malta.
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The Valletta Waterfront
The Valletta Waterfront is a prominent leisure and entertainment destination located at the port of Valletta. Comprising 19 historic warehouses dating back to the 18th century, it has been revitalized into a collection of restaurants, bars, and retail outlets. Its colourful facades represent the diverse trade activities historically conducted here. The waterfront is a hub for cruise liner activities and offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour. It hosts various events throughout the year, contributing to the vibrant cultural scene of Valletta.
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Upper Barrakka Gardens
Upper Barrakka Gardens is a public garden in Valletta offering panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. Built in the 16th century as a private garden for the Italian knights, it features a neoclassical pavilion, a variety of statues, and the Saluting Battery, where a cannon salute is fired daily.
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Lower Barrakka Gardens
Lower Barrakka Gardens, located on the eastern side of Valletta’s city walls, offers sweeping views over the Grand Harbour, Fort Ricasoli, and the breakwater. The garden features a neoclassical temple dedicated to Sir Alexander Ball, a monument to the Great Siege, and a peaceful environment with ample greenery. Both gardens are a must-visit for their tranquil ambiance and stunning views.
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St Paul of the Shipwreck Church
St. Paul of the Shipwreck Church, situated in Valletta, Malta, is a historic Catholic church dedicated to the apostle St. Paul. Constructed in the 16th century by the Order of St. John, the church is renowned for its Baroque architecture and ornate interior decorations. It commemorates the shipwreck of St. Paul on the island of Malta in AD 60, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. The church remains an important religious and cultural site in Malta.
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Grandmaster’s Palace
The Grandmaster’s Palace, located in Valletta, Malta, is a historic landmark and seat of government that dates back to the 16th century. Originally built as a residence for the Grand Master of the Order of St. John, the palace now houses the Office of the President of Malta and the House of Representatives. Visitors can explore its opulent interior, including the State Rooms and Armoury, and learn about Malta’s rich history and cultural heritage.
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Casa Rocca Piccola
Casa Rocca Piccola is a 16th-century palace in Valletta, now serving as a living museum. It provides a unique insight into the customs and traditions of Maltese nobility over the past 400 years. The palace, still a residence of the de Piro family, showcases a collection of furniture, silver, and paintings, along with a network of underground air-raid shelters used during World War II. Visits to Casa Rocca Piccola offer an authentic glimpse into the domestic life of Maltese aristocracy through the centuries.
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National War Museum – Fort St Elmo
The National War Museum, located in Fort St. Elmo, chronicles Malta’s military history from the Bronze Age to modern times. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from World War II, including the George Cross awarded to Malta by King George VI.
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The Lascaris War Rooms
The Lascaris War Rooms, situated within Valletta’s fortifications, served as the secret headquarters for the British during World War II. Today, they offer a unique insight into the military strategies deployed during the war, providing a tangible link to Malta’s wartime history.
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Valletta to Silema Ferry
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