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Besides the fact Malta has archaeological sites that are older than the pyramids, Parthenon and even Stonehenge, the capital of Valletta has been described by Benjamin Disraeli as ‘a city of palaces built by gentlemen for gentlemen’. Valletta is also just one of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites that can be found across the islands and with more than 359 churches packed into just 316km² of land mass, history surrounds you wherever you go. Malta was awarded the George Cross by King George VI on April 15, 1942 for the appreciation of the Maltese nation’s heroism during WWII and it is featured on the country’s flag.
Malta’s heritage comes from a long line of warrior nations who conquered the islands and occupied it over the millennia such as the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Ottomans and Arabs and later on the French and British. All left an indelible mark on the islands and Malta is often described as a “melting pot” of cultures, something that rings true to this very day.
Navigating the coastlines of Malta and its sister island, Gozo, you will encounter the mesmerising tongue twister names of fishing villages such as Marsaxlokk, Ta’ Xbiex, Birzebuggia, Ghajnsielem, Xlendi, Qala and many others. If you want to kick of a visit to Malta, you certainly have to start in the capital City, Valletta. Malta was the stronghold of the Knights of St John who left their indelible mark all over the country, from palaces to cities and towns, from hilltop fortifications and even in the countryside but especially in Valletta.
Let’s take a look at some of the places you have to see when on any visit to the islands plus a brief overview of Malta’s food and wine scene:
The Capital City Valletta: The highlights that can be found in Valletta are too numerous to mention, but one that stands out is St John’s Co-Cathedral with its unassuming exterior and breathtaking interiors. Tiny Valletta is the EU’s southernmost capital and at 0.61km² also its smallest, but it is jam-packed with things to see and do and warrants at least a full two days to explore. Do not miss out on the National Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Archaeology.
The Three Cities: Right across the Grand Harbour from Valletta is where you will find the Three Cities, also known as Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. This is another part of Malta that feels like a living museum. History surrounds you and you expect one of the knights to whisper something in your ear at any given time when you are walking through the area’s ancient streets. Here you will find the Maritime Museum, the Inquisitor’s Palace and Fort St Angelo to name but a few places of interest.
Mdina or the Silent City: Once the capital of Malta, Mdina is a fortified hilltop town that will stun your senses from the moment you approach the famous Mdina Gate leading into the town. Spend at least four or five hours here exploring Malta’s most sought-after residential address and don’t forget to visit Palazzo Falzon, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Fontanella Tea Garden and the Mdina Cathedral Museum.
Mosta Dome: One of the biggest unsupported domes in the world, this famous church comes with an added bonus of it surviving an unexploded German bombshell that crashed through the dome during WWII while there were worshippers inside. A replica of the bomb is on display to this very day.
Gozo: Malta’s sister island is a mere 35 minutes by ferry and on the way to Mgarr harbour, you will pass the island of Comino which is home to only two permanent inhabitants. Gozo is dotted with beautiful Baroque churches and historic farmhouses and said to be the mythical home of the nymph Calypso as mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey. In the centre of Gozo is the capital of Victoria also known as Rabat. You cannot afford to miss a visit to the fortified citadel which can be seen from anywhere in Gozo. Go for a morning coffee and a pastry in it-Tokk Square, St George’s Square and buy a souvenir along the way.
Malta’s Ancient Wonders: A must on any itinerary when visiting Malta are its ancient wonders such as Ggantija, Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, Tarxien, Ta’Hagrat, Skorba, the Hypogeum, the Tal-Mintna Catacombs in Mqabba, Malta, St. Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat, Malta, St. Agatha’s Catacombs in Rabat, Malta, Salina Catacombs in Naxxar, Malta, St Augustine’s Catacombs in Rabat, Malta, Ta’ Bistra Catacombs near Mosta, Malta and St. Cataldus Catacombs also in Rabat, Malta. There are also countless Roman ruins, mysterious cart ruts, Punic and Bronze Age dolmens scattered all over Malta.
Food: Maltese cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavours that reflect the island’s vibrant history and Mediterranean influences. Traditional dishes like rabbit stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek), lampuki pie and pastizzi showcase hearty, homey cooking, often enjoyed in the warm, communal settings of family gatherings. The local seafood, fresh from the surrounding blue waters, features prominently in many dishes, with favourites such as octopus and swordfish gracing the tables of both humble cafes and fine dining establishments. Malta has a fair amount of restaurants that are included in the Michelin Guide.
Wine: Complementing this delicious fare are the Maltese wines, which have seen a renaissance in recent years. Indigenous grape varieties like Gellewza and Ghirghentina produce unique red and white wines that are increasingly winning international acclaim. The Maltese wine scene is distinguished by boutique wineries that pride themselves on quality over quantity, offering everything from crisp, refreshing whites to robust, full-bodied reds, providing the perfect pairing to Malta’s diverse and flavourful cuisine. Make sure you visit Marsovin, Mar Casar, San Niklaw, Ta’ Betta and Ta’ Mena Wine Estates for starters.
If you are interested in exploring Malta or Gozo and want more information, why not give us at Frank Salt Real Estate a call? We have been at the forefront of Malta property for more than 55 years and know the islands inside and out. Why not see some properties while you are accompanied by one of our experts? Who knows, you may just decide to make Malta or Gozo your permanent or second home!
