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Malta's Capital, Valletta
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.
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Your journey into Valletta will most certainly start at Triton's Fountain just ouside 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. |
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. |
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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. |
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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. |
St. John's Co-Cathedral
Built in 1578 by the famous Maltese architect Gerolamo Cassar, this is one of
the most popular places to visit in Valletta. The simple but elegant exterior
gives little hint to the sheer magnificence to be found inside. This is Malta's
very own Sistine Chapel and very impressive indeed.
The Palace Armoury
Houses a magnificent collection of arms from the times of the Knights. Here
you will find weapons and armoury of italian, spanish and even turkish origin
in near pristine condition.
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The National War Museum
An insight into Malta's role in World War II is provided here. With exhibits
such as an Italian E-Boat, Anti-Aircraft gun, photographic panels depicting
the hardship endured by the Maltese during the war and of course the
famous St. George's Cross awarded to the Maltese by King George IV.
The National Library
With books dating back as far as the 11th centuy this a fascinating visit into
Maltese history. There are over 1200 manuscripts and maps from the 16th
to the present day. |
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Did you know? - The movie Midnight Express was shot almost entirely in Malta. Fort St. Elmo was used as the main location throughout the filming. |
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