Valletta is the capital city of the republic of Malta, an island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea. It was named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1980 due to the importance of its architecture and the role it played in Christian history. The Renaissance churches and palaces which grace the Valletta cityscape give the city her nickname "Superbissima", which means "most proud".

 

 

History

Valletta's early history is closely tied to the Knights of Malta, a Christian order whose main endeavor was caring for the infirm and battling Muslims. The Grand Master of the Order, Jean Parisot de Valette established the city in 1586 and it quickly became an important stronghold, due to its location on a peninsula between two natural harbors.

 

Art & Museums

This compact city is home to a number of important churches and buildings. The Co-Cathedral of Saint John contains the largest single piece of art by Caravaggio, his only signed artwork. The Mediterranean Conference Center, formerly known as the Sacra Infermeria, was built in 1574 and was the most famous hospital in Europe during the Renaissance. The Magesterial Palace which now houses the Maltese Parliament was once the seat of the Grand Master of the Knights of Malta and is a fine example of 16th century architecture. The National Museums of Fine Arts (housed in an 18th-century palace) and Archaeology should not be missed.

 

Nightlife

Nightlife in this conservative, Catholic nation is far more reserved than in other Mediterranean tourist destinations. Valletta can get a little quiet after 9 o'clock. However, there are many festivals and performing art centers that keep visitors entertained in the evening hours. The Manoel Theatre, which was created in 1732 by the Grand Master of the Order of Saint John, is the best known and oldest musical venue on the island. During the summer months, carnivals take place almost every weekend, replete with costumes, food and merriment.

 

How to get there

The Malta International Airport is located outside of Valletta and has connections with most major European cities. Ferries run regularly from Valletta to ports in Italy and Sardinia. This small city can be experienced in a few days and most sites can easily be seen by walking through the charming streets.