Malta is one of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands that have been successfully combining history and the present. The country is famous for its unique architecture, historical monuments, and ruins, and an individual stand a chance to enjoy so many historical sites in Malta. Thanks to its geographical position in the center of the Mediterranean Sea Sicily has always been a place of convergence of different civilizations such as Phoenician, Romans and Knights of St. John. Malta and Gozo boast beautiful city streets and famous architecture that makes you feel like you are travelling in time; it can be very interesting for a history lover or just for those who have acute sense of curiosity.
Malta has many historical sites ranging from megalithic temples to big fortifications that make the country so interesting. Valletta’s streets are very narrow and as you walk down the street, around the corner, and around the next street, a new discovery of a new historical landmark awaits you and the same can be said for the Ġgantija Temples. For you to be able to tour this magnificent island, consider applying for a Malta Visa so you could go on a time-travel in a blink of an eye!
Here are the Historical Landmarks in Malta to Add to Your Bucket List
1. The Megalithic Temples of Malta
Probably the most striking archeological site in Malta is the complex of Neolithic temples, which are amongst the oldest monumental structures made of stones. Some of the most well-known are the Ġgantija Temples in Gozo and the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples on the main island both of which are of around 3600 B.C. These are fantastic places that give you a look at the initial inhabitants of the Maltese island and really set you on the path into the past. Do not leave without getting a guided tour, so that you can understand the true value of the pieces!)
2. Valletta – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The city of Valletta is Maltese capital, and it is a city of history which tells the story of the nation. This fortified city was constructed in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John and is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage List and it offers tourists a number of significant architectures and buildings. It also includes the Co-cathedral of St. John and the Caravaggio painting or the Grand masters’ palace which would have been the home of the grand masters of the Knights of St John. Exploring Valletta’s was it possible to turn back time and see the Knights of Malta. Do not miss the Upper Barracca Gardens and the great views from there.
3. The Silent City of Mdina
Mdina is another unique city of medieval construction located on a hill in the central part of Malta and is called the ‘’ Silent City’’. Thanks to the small streets, great walls, and beautiful buildings, Mdina is one of the most picturesque historical sights in Malta. It has a history that can be traced back to the Phoenician time and is very calm making anyone feel like they are actually in a different era. Walk up to the Mdina Cathedral, chat with the locals at the Palazzo Falson, and get the bird’s eye view of the entire island from the city walls.
4. Fort St. Elmo
Fort St. Elmo is another historical site situated in Valletta, today it is considered being one of the main attractions of Malta. It was the scene of the Great Siege of 1565 when the Knights of St John successfully defended a 34-day assault by the Ottoman Turks. Today the fort is home to the National War Museum, detailing all aspects of Maltese military history and the role of the island in warfare throughout history. The fort is a great tourist attraction especially with its backdrop of the sea making it an interesting place for any tourist who has a cultivated interest in historical features.
5. The Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni
The Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum is prehistoric underground burial complex that was built around 2500BC and is proved to be a world heritage site. This is one of the most extraordinary and enigmatic historical monuments of Malta. What makes Hypogeum interesting is that it has several rooms and corridors hewn into rock; it was presumably used for cult and burial purposes. Visiting this marvelous place helps to realize what the island looked like thousands of years ago. Just to remind you that you have a very rare chance to go there, so it is necessary to buy the tickets in advance.
6. The Fortifications of Cittadella
Another site that should be on your list is the Cittadella in Gozo. This city has been for centuries the main and most strategic city of Gozo, with strong evidence of medieval, renaissance, and baroque architecture. Go to the historical fortifications, see stunning views of Gozo, and go to the Cathedral, and museums of Cittadella. It still holds a lot of character and remains a massive representation of the island’s history due to all the restoration projects in the years gone by.
7. The Inquisitor’s Palace
The Inquisitor’s Palace is in the center of Birgu and is a spectacular construction that would represent the medieval and early renaissance period in Malta. The palace was the home to the Inquisitors who presided over the trials in Malta for the Catholic church. Today, it tourists the Museum of Inquisition where items of this rather unpleasant period of history are displayed. A visit here will give you a tour through the inquisition and interesting history or tour the palace and it’s courtyards and beautifully designed rooms.
8. The Blue Grotto
Although not as ancient as most historical sites, the Blue Grotto must be noted for its beauty and history. This system of caves, situated on the southern spurs of Malta, has been inhabited by people since paleolithic. Due to natural conditions and decorations, it has become one of the favorite places for visitors and inhabitants. A boat trip through the caves is also possible and it’s worth it to look at the remains of the carvings of the early inhabitants of the island.
Conclusion
Malta is an enchanting country that is capable of becoming a Mecca for history lovers because each of these places has its own interesting story. Starting with prehistoric temples older even than large parts of Europe up to the fortresses which the Knights of St. John erected on the island, the history of Malta is everywhere. Any place in Malta has something to tell about it history, whether it is a fort like Fort St. Elmo or a fortified city like the magnificent Mdina , Malta is definitely a place to visit.
When planning for this destination, it is important to ensure that you get yourself a Malta Visa to gain the most from the historical island of this Mediterranean gem. Being a combination of history and contemporary experience, Malta offers those extraordinary memories that you will cherish for a long time and a gain of historical background. Never bypass the chance to discover the amazing story of Malta on your following journey!
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