City of Valletta in Malta

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1980
Size of heritage: 56 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 14,514°
Latitude: 35,901°

Summary

The capital of Malta is inextricably linked to the history of the military and charitable Order of St John of Jerusalem. It was ruled successively by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and the Order of the Knights of St John. Valletta’s 320 monuments, all within an area of 55 ha, make it one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world.

Location on Map

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City of Valletta: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malta

The City of Valletta, located on the Island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural significance. This fortified city, often referred to as the "Fortress City," was built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century and has since become a symbol of Malta's resilience and grandeur.

History

The history of Valletta dates back to the 16th century when the Knights of St. John, also known as the Knights Hospitaller, were granted the island of Malta by Emperor Charles V of Spain. Following the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, the Knights decided to build a new city that would serve as a stronghold against future attacks.

Under the guidance of the renowned military architect Francesco Laparelli, construction of Valletta began in 1566. The city was meticulously planned, featuring a grid-like street layout, fortified walls, and bastions that provided strategic defense. The construction of Valletta was completed in 1571, and it was named after Grand Master Jean de Valette, who led the Knights during the Great Siege.

Current State

Today, the City of Valletta stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Knights of St. John. Its well-preserved fortifications, palaces, churches, and other historic buildings make it a living museum of Baroque and Mannerist architecture.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Valletta is St. John's Co-Cathedral, a stunning masterpiece adorned with intricate marble work, frescoes, and a renowned painting by Caravaggio. The Grand Master's Palace, now the seat of the President of Malta, showcases opulent state rooms and a remarkable armory.

Valletta's streets are lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, offering visitors a vibrant atmosphere to explore. The city also hosts various cultural events, including the Valletta International Arts Festival and the Malta Jazz Festival, attracting artists and performers from around the world.

Moreover, Valletta's historical significance extends beyond its architectural wonders. The city played a crucial role during World War II, enduring heavy bombings and serving as a base for the British Royal Navy. The scars of war can still be seen in some areas, serving as a reminder of the city's resilience and the sacrifices made by its inhabitants.

Address
Distance: 0,3 mi
47, Battery Street
VLT1221 Malta
Malta

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin:
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Good Friday | Valletta, Malta | My Name is Malta

Published: April 04, 2015
Length: 26:09 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: My Name is Malta Clothing Line

Good Friday Procession Valletta, Malta 2015.

Valletta old town

Published: January 05, 2015
Length: 25:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Michal Bella

Valletta is the capital city of Malta and is located in the central-eastern portion of the island of Malta. - Marsamxett Harbour, Grand Harbour, Upper & Lower Barrakka Gardens, Knights Hospitaller...

Valletta and Mdina (Malta) on a Costa Cruise

Published: December 04, 2014
Length: 18:07 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: MuchoHop

Hello Hoppers! My visit to Malta was rush rush rush but I managed to get a glimpse of Valletta and Mdina. I quite enjoyed this Port of Call and was very very impressed by our arrival by sea...

Araba Trabuxu Valletta Malta, Holiday-Malta.com

Published: November 04, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: holiday-malta.com

Live the sweet life to the full and indulge in this lavish setting. visit http://www.holiday-malta.com/Property/Hotel103/ A great places to stay in Valletta Malta, The Araba Trabuxu offers...

Herbst-Segeltörn mit der BLUE LAGOON Korfu - Malta www.SailBlueLagoon.de

Published: November 29, 2011
Length: 00:22 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: SYBlueLagoon

Herbst-Segeltörn mit der BLUE LAGOON von Korfu - Süditalien - Sizilien - Malta und einhand retour. Infos: www.SailBlueLagoon.de Segeln und Mitsegeln ab Korfu, Griechenland, unterwegs mit...

Valletta. Malta

Published: January 25, 2011
Length: 17:32 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: José Luis Polo

Por lo pequeña que es, Valletta la capital de Malta, parece una metrópolis en miniatura. Fue construida como una ciudad fortificada por los caballeros de la Orden de Malta, para prevenir...

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Near airports

Luqa Airport
Large airport - 4 mi (6 km)

Comiso Airport 'Vincenzo Magliocco'
Medium airport - 76 mi (122 km)

Sigonella Airport
Medium airport - 106 mi (171 km)

Lampedusa Airport
Medium airport - 110 mi (177 km)

Catania / Fontanarossa Airport
Large airport - 112 mi (181 km)

Pantelleria Airport
Medium airport - 155 mi (250 km)

Reggio Calabria Airport
Medium airport - 163 mi (262 km)

Palermo / Punta Raisi Airport
Large airport - 176 mi (283 km)

Tripoli International Airport
Large airport - 237 mi (381 km)

Tunis Carthage International Airport
Large airport - 247 mi (399 km)