Malta may only be a tiny country, but it has a never-ending array of beautiful attractions to entice and enthral visitors.
Valletta is one of Europe’s smallest capitals, but was once the base of the illustrious Knights of St John. The city is currently undergoing a huge transformation as its rise to international prominence continues, and it readies itself to become the European Capital of Culture in 2018. Nevertheless, its architectural and historical legacy is superb. Any city would be proud to possess such jewels as the Palace of the Grand Masters and the Co-Cathedral of St John.
Gun battery at Valletta.
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On the other side of Grand Harbour lies the Three Cities, the original home of the Knights and later the dockyards during the period of British colonial rule. Flattened during World War II, it hides much of its historic pedigree in tranquil streets that see few visitors.
On a plateau in the centre of the island, Mdina, the old capital, is one of the world’s finest examples of a medieval walled city that is still inhabited.
St. George’s Square, Victoria.
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Investigating the salt pods in Marsalforn.
Sylvaine Poitau/Apa Publications
Central Malta is dominated by the great dome of Mosta, but this is not unusual as churches are a Maltese speciality, as you will see if you spend time touring this lesser-known area. Meanwhile, Sliema, St Julian’s and Paceville have developed into Malta’s most important resort area.
The north of the island is also known for its brash newer resorts, Bugibba and Qawra, and a short distance away are the island’s scarce but very pleasant sandy beaches.
Further north are the beautiful, and less developed, islands of Gozo and Comino, while the south is where Malta’s prehistoric temples are found.
All the sites of interest are numbered on specially drawn maps to help you find your way round. It’s a good idea to hire a car, though the island’s bus system has been already upgraded.
