Valletta Sights and Landmarks Guide, Malta

The beautiful harbor city of Valetta, the capital of Malta, is an almost perfectly preserved example of 16th century architecture. The city was declared a World Heritage Site and many tourists visit the city for its architectural appeal, but there are many other things that could catch the attention of the culture seeking visitor. Malta is a unique nation that combines elements from many different cultures, the natural result of its rich history. Close to other tourist destinations such as Tunis and Palermo, Malta’s capital is visited by millions of tourists every year. This Valletta Sights Guide will point out some of the city’s must-see attractions.

Valletta Sights Guide - Architecture

Valletta’s architecture is one of its main points of attraction. Simply walking on the narrow, winding cobbled streets of Valletta can prove to be an amazing experience. Buildings of various styles and epochs can be encountered throughout the city. There are several 16th century baroque buildings that were erected when the city was founded by the Knights Hospitaller. There are many palaces, churches and plazas that are worth taking a look at.

This Valletta Sights Guide recommends that you visit the Grandmaster’s Palace, which currently houses the House of Representatives of Malta. The armory displays a superb collection of weaponry, and its walls are decorated with rich medieval tapestries. The highlights of the palace are the frescoes in the Throne room. Another amazing palace that you should visit is the Casa Rocca Piccola, a breathtaking building that is still being occupied by a family of Maltese nobles. The house is open for visits, and it is the only remaining lived-in palace in Malta.

Valletta Sights Guide - Museums and Churches

The Museum of Fine Art, housed in a palazzo, display an impressive collection of Maltese and Italian art from the 15th century onward, and you can also admire some fine pieces of 17th century Maltese furniture. The Cathedral Museum, housed in an auxiliary of St. John’s Co-Cathedral, displays religions tapestries, choir books and a couple of Caravaggio masterpieces.

A very interesting place to visit is the Toy Museum, more suited for adults than children. There is a large collection of vintage toys that will surely appeal to nostalgics. Some parts of Malta’s National Library are open to tourists. The building itself is quite impressive, and the library shelters the complete archives of the Knights Hospitaller, the founders o Valletta.

There are many churches in Valletta that are worth visiting. One church you definitely shouldn’t miss is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a seemingly plain building with a simply breathtaking interior. The cathedral’s intricate marble floor has been declared to be the most beautiful in the world.

Valletta Sights Guide - Other Sights

You absolutely shouldn’t miss Valletta’s waterfront, a row of artfully built warehouses lined along the water’s edge. Although the warehouses have been turned into modern shops, they haven’t lost their historical charm. Triton Fountain in the City Gate Square is located right in the city’s heart, surrounded by cafes and shops, and it’s the perfect place to rest for a bit and take in the beauty of the square.

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