Small Group: Valletta 'City of the Knights' Walking Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Valletta City Gate

  Our journey begins with an introduction to Valletta, the capital city of Malta, renowned for its formidable fortifications and exquisite Baroque art and architecture. At this point we'll also encounter contemporary marvels such as the Triton Fountain, the new main gate, and the striking Parliament building, blending seamlessly with the city's historic charm. A poignant reminder of Malta's wartime past awaits as we visit the site of the Royal Opera House, a tragic casualty of World War II that once stood as a gem of neo-classical architecture, now preserved in memory of its former glory.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 2

  Here we'll have the opportunity to meet the city’s visionary founder, Grand Master Jean de Valette of the Order of St. John, who played a pivotal role in shaping the city's destiny. Our discussion will center around the Order's significance and the heroic defense during the Great Siege of 1565, which ultimately led to the establishment of Valletta. Exploring the religious heritage of the area, we'll learn about the significance of churches like St. Catherine's and the first conventual church of the Order, dedicated to Our Lady of Victory.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 3

  Our journey continues to the magnificent Baroque façade of the Auberge de Castille, a striking architectural marvel that once served as the residence for the esteemed knights of the Langue of Castille, Leon, and Portugal. Today, it stands as the official office of the Prime Minister of Malta, symbolizing the intersection of history and contemporary governance. Adjacent to the auberge, the square hosts several monuments paying homage to influential political figures from Malta's rich history, including Paul Boffa and Manwel Dimech, serving as poignant reminders of the nation's enduring political legacy.

  5 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Upper Barrakka Gardens

  The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer a breath-taking panorama of the bustling Grand Harbour, a vital maritime hub that has played a pivotal role throughout Malta's history. In the 16th century, under the stewardship of the Knights of St. John, it blossomed into an economic epicentre, bustling with trade and activity. During British administration, the harbour witnessed further development, with expanded dockyard facilities solidifying Malta's position as a crucial naval base for the British Mediterranean fleet. Today, the harbour stands as a testament to Malta's enduring maritime significance, offering a glimpse into its storied past and continued importance on the global stage.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5

  Continuing our journey down Merchants Street, we encounter yet another splendid auberge, this time belonging to the Italian-speaking knights. As we proceed, the street reveals a diverse array of domestic buildings showcasing various architectural styles, from the elegant Mannerist designs to the stately Victorian-era houses. Amidst these architectural wonders, we also uncover intriguing tales from the courts, as the law courts of the Knights of St. John once stood along this historic thoroughfare, echoing with centuries of legal proceedings and judicial deliberations.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 6

  We will stop briefly in front of the former Conventual church of the Order of St. John, now transformed into the co-Cathedral of the islands. This austere façade, crafted by the renowned Maltese architect Gerolamo Cassar, stands as a testament to the church's storied past. Once revered as the Temple of the knights and hailed as the most significant edifice in the city

  5 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 7
  Republic Street

  We’ll then stroll along the main thoroughfare of the city, passing by an array of significant landmarks including the distinguished Courts of Justice, where the wheels of justice have turned since the 19th century, and the venerable National Library, a repository of knowledge and learning. Our journey culminates in front of the majestic Grand Master's Palace, a symbol of power and prestige. Once the office and residence of one of the most influential figures in Europe, it now serves as the office of the President of Malta, a fitting testament to the enduring legacy of this historic institution.

  5 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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