Malta is a tiny country in southern Europe along the Mediterranean coast and is a stepping stone between the countries of Europe and Africa. It comprises of an archipelago and is flanked by Sicily, Gibraltar, Alexandria and Tunisia. Valletta, officially known as ll-Belt Valletta, is the capital of Malta and is situated 8 km from the Luqa airport on the central-eastern coast. The splendid Grand Harbour, which is Malta’s major port, lies to the south of the capital while the Mediterranean Sea lies to its east and the other natural harbour, the Marsamxett Harbour to the north.
The city got its name from Jean Parizot de la Valletta, who had successfully defended the island from the Ottoman attack in 1565. It was given the official name Humilissima Civitas Valletta, meaning the Most Humble City of Valletta, by the Order of Saint John. The city’s architectural beauty with its Baroque palaces, luscious gardens and elaborate churches all make up for its elegance which is why the city is termed as ‘Superbissima’, meaning ‘Most proud’. Apart from Baroque architecture, we can find glimpses of Mannerist, Neoclassical as well as Modern architecture here.
Having been stormed by numerous invaders, Valletta reflects its historical importance through a number of tourist attractions with buildings from the 16th century, palaces, churches, museums, gardens and forts all of which reflect its rich cultural past. Some of the historical buildings include the St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Auberge de Castille et Leon, the National Museum of Fine Arts, a 1570’s Rococo palace, the Manoel Theatre, the Magisterial Palace of the Grandmaster, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, Fort Elmo and the list just continues.
There is so much to see in Valletta that a short visit of a day or two is not enough to explore all its beauties. Apart from its beautiful architecture, Valletta offers a vibrant nightlife, great restaurants and some delightful cuisines. As for shopping, Republic Street running downhill from the City Gate is a good place to do all your required shopping. There are beaches in Valletta, but these are not sandy beaches instead they are made of rocks, but they are fine for sunbathing. Those interested in scuba diving and snorkeling can indulge in these activities here. In overall, Valletta is definitely a place worth visiting.
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