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The City Of Valletta |
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Malta's capital Valletta is a fascinating city set amidst centuries old
architecture and history. Although Valletta is small as capital cities go, this
in fact adds to it's vitality, charm and character. Built by the Knights of the
Order of St. John following the Great Siege in 1565 with the purpose of
repelling future invaders, Valletta's magnificent fortifications surround the
city and offer it's visitors a unique historical experience.
Your journey into Valletta will most certainly start at Triton's Fountain just
outside the city gates. The fountain was designed by Maltese sculptor Vincent
Apap in 1959 and stands as one of Malta's most recognised landmarks. Here is
where you will also find the main bus terminus which serves as the hub of the
island as all travel to and from every corner of Malta, starts and ends here. |
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On passing through the main city gates you enter Freedom Square which leads
directly onto Valletta's main pedestrianised street, Republic Street. Being the
main street it runs right through the heart of Valletta (approx 1.5km) to Fort
St. Elmo at the tip of the Sceberras peninsula. Republic Street passes through a
number of squares, one of which is known as Republic Square. Here you will find
one of Malta's more well known cafe/restaurants, the Cafe Cordina which serves
many fine examples of maltese food such as Pastizzi and Quassatta. This is a
perfect place for the weary traveller to relax and unwind.
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Within Republic Square you will also find a statue of Queen Victoria sculpted by
the sicilian sculptor Giuseppe Valenti and the National Library of Malta which
was built in the late 17th century. Running parallell to Republic Street is
Merchants Street which is home to the main markets in Valletta. A bustling busy
place with everything the discerning traveller could possibly need. This is a
great place to do some shopping. Valletta's side streets lead to one of two main
harbours that surround the city, Marsamxett Harbour and the magnificent Grand
Harbour. One of the best views of the Grand Harbour can be experienced from the
Upper Barracca Gardens. These gardens also house a doric style temple dedicated
to Sir Alexander Ball who was the first english governor of Malta.br />
A visit to Valletta has so much to offer with palaces, musuems and some of the
most magnificent churches to be seen in the mediterranean. Here are some of our
top recommendations for your visit to this unique historical city. |
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© Try Malta.net 2012
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