National Library of Malta, National library in Republic Square, Valletta, Malta.
The National Library of Malta is a neoclassical building on Republic Square featuring Doric and Ionic columns that create a formal appearance. A monumental staircase leads to reading rooms housing thousands of historical manuscripts and collected works from various periods.
The institution was founded in 1555 when Grand Master Claude de la Sengle ordered all books from deceased members of the Hospitaller Order to be gathered. Over centuries, this collection grew into an archive documenting the presence of the Hospitallers in Malta.
The collections reflect Malta's religious and political history, particularly through documents of the Hospitallers visible in the reading rooms. Visitors experience here how Mediterranean and European cultures intersect through books that have survived centuries.
The building is centrally located on Republic Square and easily reachable on foot from the harbor area. Visitors should know that access to reading areas may be limited and it is wise to check conditions beforehand, as the rooms are used for concentrated study.
The collections include over 60 early printed books from the 15th century, among Europe's oldest printed works. These rarities show how quickly printing spread after its invention and reached even an island like Malta.
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