Valletta, Malta

Cathedral and Museum of Saint John

Outside, the Cathedral of St. John in Malta looks like an ordinary fortress. So simple and unremarkable is it. But inside-there is a true palace. People come here to walk across the floor, which is, in essence, a beautiful mosaic made of marble tombstones. Beneath the floor lies the burial ground of the Knights of the Order of Malta. The second thing that deserves no less respect is the painting by Michelangelo da Caravaggio, “The Beheading of John the Baptist,” painted in 1608. Many experts call this painting the most tragic in the history of art and point to the fact that Caravaggio created it based on what he saw with his own eyes.

Palace of the Grand Master

The Palace of the Grand Master is the main building of Palace Square, once belonging to the knights, then to the English, and today serving as the residence of the President and Parliament of Malta. This centuries-old palace, which served as a residence for 21 Grand Masters, was built in 1571-1575 to a design by the Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar. The palace’s exterior is in the style of the 16th century, while the interior paintings were done by none other than Nicolau Nasoni. You will be able to visit the famous Council Chamber, adorned with valuable tapestries woven in France for one of the Grand Masters, Ramon Roccafulla, see exquisite frescoes and portraits of European rulers in the Ambassadors’ Hall, and also visit the Arms Museum.

St. Paul's Cathedral

The history of the Church of St. Paul dates back to ancient times. The Apostle Paul embarked on a round-the-world journey. He traveled through cities and countries, preaching the Christian faith. In Jerusalem, Paul was not received as warmly as he would have hoped. A riot broke out, and the apostle was imprisoned. After that, it was decided to send him to Rome for trial. A ship was chosen for him, and he was put aboard in chains. But apparently it was not meant for Paul to reach Rome, as the ship wrecked off the shores of Malta. The Apostle survived the disaster and found himself on an island, where he began preaching the Christian faith again. There is also a story that the Apostle Paul miraculously cured the island’s ruler of a terrible illness. In gratitude, the ruler built a church for the saint.

Fort St. Elmo

On the outskirts of Valletta stands the Fort Saint Elmo, built in 1488, which was intended to guard the approaches to the Grand Harbour and the Marsamxett Harbour. Throughout its history, the fortress was heavily damaged several times, so it had to be rebuilt almost from scratch each time. Today, the fortress houses the National War Museum of Malta and a police academy. Tourist access to the academy is closed for safety reasons, but everyone is welcome to take an exciting walk among the museum exhibits. In addition to unique collections, you can also watch a theatrical performance depicting medieval knightly drills.

Armory

The Armoury in Valletta is one of the richest collections of cold steel. This is not Moscow, where, for some reason, the Armoury shows dresses and shoes. Here you’ll find magnificent specimens crafted by armourers from France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Turkey in the 17th-18th centuries.

Republic Street

The main street of Valletta, which every visitor to the city is simply obliged to walk from end to end. Republic Street is the city’s perfectly straight “axis,” around which the entire Valletta was built according to the master plan of the 16th century. It leads from the city gates straight to Fort Elmo, and all the ground floors of its buildings are taken up by a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Archaeological Museum is also located on this street.

Garden Mall

In 1656, Grand Master Lascaris issued an order to build a special place for knights to rest. Around the same time, the Moll Garden was laid out not far from the coast. Here, in the Middle Ages, knights played ball games and strolled, taking a break from their service. Until the early 20th century, this site was private property. Today, the Moll Garden is a favorite leisure spot for both local residents and tourists. Along the long road, tall trees have been planted and numerous monuments placed. These sculptures were created in honor of famous individuals who have ever taken part in battles for Malta’s freedom. The many monuments and sculptures make the garden a true open-air museum.

Valletta Sightseeing Tour

On an excursion in Valletta, you will visit the most notable building of the library, in the building of the ancient palace “Italian Albergo”, where the guides will take you through the historical and archaeological museums. In the city center there is the Monastery of San Giovanni, built in the 16th century, and in the capital’s park you will see the former governor of Malta’s palace-house. It should be noted that those who have previously been on an excursion in Lucca find many similarities in the architecture of these cities, since the fortress walls, temples, and old buildings were built around the same time.

For a more detailed list of excursions and their prices, you can check it after booking your cruise in your “Personal Customer Account”.