Sightseeing in Valletta - what to see. Complete travel guide

The building of Valetta started yet in 1566. At that time the city was used as a powerful protective facility. Valetta was surrounded by thick walls, behind which were hiding cozy streets and parks. Today the city looks like a big museum and almost any building here bears memories about historical events. In this place you can find amazing temples and ancient palaces that are situated around ordinary living houses.

Start your acquaintance with the city from a cinema show named “Life Path of Malta”. The show will tell you about main historical events and throw a light upon the traditions and culture of local people. The show takes place in Conference Hall located not far away from Saint Elmo Fort.

Great Master’s Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Valetta. It was built in the 16th century. In the halls of the palace you can see amazing frescos featuring the knights of the Maltese Order and can see a priceless collection of armor and weapons. The central part of the city hides one of the most important religious places of interest – St John Cathedral. The church is surrounded by a spacious square from all sides, making this place an ideal destination for unhurried walks. Even though the facade of the building looks quite modest, inner decoration of the church is overwhelmingly rich and refined. The walls of the cathedral are the last destination for the rests of 400 Maltese knights who have participated in the Great Siege. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The city and its suburbs traditionally attract many archeologists. In Valetta is opened the National Archeological Museum that exhibits unique artifacts, a collection of coins and sculptures. Your excursion to the National Military Museum will be no less interesting. The building of the museum was founded in 1488 and was used as a protective facility. Once the siege of the city was stopped, the building was damaged severely, but knights applied many efforts to restore it. The halls of the museum store large collections of weapons, armory and other military equipment.

A pleasant surprise also awaits fans of theatrical art. They will be able to visit the national theatre of Malta. It was opened in the 18th century and today it is one of the three oldest theatres in Europe. In this theatre plays are staged in English, and there are often concerts of the National orchestra of Malta. Interesting cultural events take place in this historic theater every week.

A special attraction is the Republic Street – the main street of Valletta, which is entirely at the disposal of pedestrians. This street is full of many popular shops, souvenir shops, as well as restaurants and cafes. It seems as if life on the street never stops for a minute; it is possible to spend the whole day here interestingly.

At the end of the street is an interesting historical landmark - the beautiful Villa Casa Rocca Piccola. For over four hundred years, this lovely Villa was owned by the descendants of the noble family De Piro. Now, within the walls of the Villa, there is a very interesting private Museum. Each of the exhibits presented here is a unique jewel. Visitors of the villa will have the opportunity to see beautiful sculptures in the antique style, paintings by renowned Maltese artists, collections of old books and gorgeous antique furniture. The Museum houses a very interesting collection of national costumes.

Upper Barrakka Gardens are also among the outstanding attractions. In the garden, there are several spacious observation decks, from which a wonderful view of the harbor opens. Many tourists are eager to visit this garden at noon because, every day at 12-00 from a battery of ancient cannons, a ceremonial volley is produced. The picturesque garden was founded in the 17th century. Today it is a favorite destination not only among tourists but also among locals.

Travelers who enjoy hiking in scenic places should definitely pay attention to walk along the street Zakaria. This small historic street starts at the main square and leads to the port area. Its length is slightly more than 50 meters, and its width does not exceed 3 meters. The ancient street is notable for the beautiful buildings of different eras, which today is home to interesting shops, souvenir shops, and several antique shops.