In April this year, my daughter and I traveled to Malta. In this post, you can find some highlights and suggestions for Malta’s newest capital, Valletta.
Valletta–The City of the Knights*–Europe’s tiniest capital (perhaps, after Liechtenstein’s capital, Vaduz). It was built by the Knights of St. John in the 16 and 17 centuries. First, it was built in 1568, but it was transformed over the years into a fine example of baroque. The city has historical places, museums, LOT of churches (over 99% catholics), garden cafes, restaurants, and outlets. Valletta is one of the UNESCO world heritage cities.
- Walk to the Barracca Gardens for a splendid panorama view of the Grand Harbour;
- Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Malta’s greatest treasure that includes the famous painting by Caravaggio;
-Grand Master’s Palace, which houses Parliament, the Offices of the President of Malta and the Armoury;
-Valletta War Museum’
-The Mediterranean Conference Center (the longest roofed hall in Europe) built by the order of St. John. The most important, and historic event host in this building was the summit between Bush (the eldest) and Gorbachev in 1989, which marked the end of the Cold War;
- Valletta Waterfront, which I think will be your cruise liner terminal; it offers a magnificent view and has lots of commercial outlets, restaurants, and cafes;
- If time permits, you may want to go to Mosta to visit the famous Dome considered the 3rd largest Dome in Europe;
- Admire the womanly curves of the “fat ladies” at the National Museum of Archeology;
-Ask questions at the Hypogeum, and explore Vittoriosa’s charming Il Collachio;
- I am sure that part of your cruise program will include a cruise of Grand Harbour, which you should not miss;
- Visit the National Museum of Fine Arts (collections of Italian and Maltese paintings from 15 to 20 centuries);
- Visit local artisans at work producing Maltese ware, and shop local products at bargain prices.
Well, these are the most important treasures of Valletta you may not want to miss, but your time may not be available to see all of the sights. I put them in the importance order based on my view. The best approach would be to start with a walking tour at the City Gate. Within about two hours, you can walk 3.5 km and you can see at least St. John’s Cavalier, St. Michael’s Bastion, the Hasting Gardens, shop for souvenirs, drink a beer, and coffee, etc. Another way to visit Valletta in short time (30 minutes) is to take a cheap DIY bus tour. A circular route, bus 98 departs City Gate every hour between 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Take lots of pictures and enjoy! More to follow in next article.
nicusuciu
