Mdina, Fortified medieval city in Western Region, Malta
Mdina is a fortified medieval city in the Western Region of Malta, perched on a hilltop and encircled by thick limestone walls. Narrow alleyways wind between palaces from Norman and Baroque periods, their honey-colored facades glowing in the sunlight.
Phoenician settlers founded a fortress here, later expanded by Romans, Arabs, and Normans. The Knights of St. John moved their seat to Valletta in 1530, ending its role as the political center.
The nickname "The Silent City" refers to the near absence of car noise, since only residents may drive through the narrow lanes.
Car access is limited to residents only, so visitors use parking areas outside the walls. Bus connections from Valletta and other towns run regularly to the entrance.
The entire settlement now houses only around 250 residents, making it one of Europe's least populated historic sites. The medieval street layout has remained almost unchanged for centuries.
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