Valletta, Capital city in Malta.
Description
Valletta spreads across a peninsula between two natural harbors, displaying limestone buildings along a grid of streets designed for military defense. The main axis runs downhill from the gate to Fort Saint Elmo at the tip, flanked by structures with wooden balconies and courtyards behind thick walls.
History
Jean de Valette founded this fortified settlement in 1566 as a response to Ottoman invasion threats, applying advanced military construction techniques of the Renaissance. The Knights of Saint John transformed it into a capital that served as a strategic Mediterranean harbor for over two centuries.
Culture
Street musicians play traditional Għana songs in public squares while locals gather in small bars for political debate over coffee and pastizzi. On weekends families walk the waterfront promenade, and during summer months religious festivals transform the narrow streets into open community spaces with processions and fireworks.
Practical
Visitors can reach the capital through regular bus services from the main terminal located outside the gate, connecting to all major destinations across Malta. Most points of interest lie within walking distance inside the compact peninsula, though some steep sections make walking tiring in the heat.
Did you know?
The settlement contains over 320 historical monuments spread across roughly half a square kilometer, making it one of the most densely concentrated heritage sites in Europe. Several churches hold paintings by Caravaggio, who worked here during his time as a knight in the late 16th century.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Port Region (Port)).
Grandmaster's Palace
40 m
Manoel Theatre
119 m
National Library of Malta
85 m
Queen Victoria
70 m
Saint George's Square
22 m
Palace Armoury
82 m
Great Siege Monument
148 m
Basilica of St Dominic
110 m
Valletta Market
138 m
Main Guard
37 m
Church of Our Lady of Damascus, Valletta
90 m
Casa del Commun Tesoro
64 m
Hostel de Verdelin
61 m
Banca Giuratale
136 m
Christ the Redeemer Church
143 m
Malta Postal Museum
105 m
Palazzo Correa
89 m
La Borsa
92 m
Messina Palace
67 m
Spinola Palace
115 m
Church and Monastery of St Catherine, Valletta
147 mValletta
70 m
Cancelleria
35 m
Manoel Theatre Museum
119 m
Niche of St. Francis Borgia
144 mStatue of Neptune
63 mSette Giugno Monument
40 mWork of art, sculpture
133 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes