Malta’s Historical Tapestry Makes it an Ideal Destination for Winter Travellers
Malta’s Historical Tapestry Makes it an Ideal Destination for Winter Travellers
Looking to avoid crowds when exploring some of the most popular sites? Winter in Malta is a great time to explore, and here are five historical and cultural sites that offer a rich and immersive experience at any time of year:
Mdina
Known as the "Silent City," Mdina is a fortified medieval town with a wealth of attractions for visitors at any time of year. Stroll through narrow, winding streets that exude a sense of history and tranquillity. Discover an astonishing mix of baroque and medieval architecture in its ever-winding streets, wonderfully adorned and preserved churches, majestic palaces and fortified walls that turn this silent city into an outdoor museum. Two of the most popular attractions are St. Paul's Cathedral, a baroque masterpiece, and one of Malta’s greatest ecclesiastical gems, and the Mdina Dungeons, which depict historical events in an blood-curdling immersive experience.
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an underground prehistoric cemetery, dating back more than 6,000 years. It is a labyrinth of interconnecting rock-cut chambers on three levels, with intricate red ochre paintings and wall carvings. The site provides insights into the burial practices and ceremonial rituals of the prehistoric inhabitants of the island.
Ħaġar Qim Temples
Dating back to around 3200 BC, these are among the oldest religious sites on Earth. The temple complex is made up of megalithic structures, with large limestone blocks. You can explore the temple's various chambers and appreciate the advanced architectural skills of the Neolithic temple builders. The site also offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta
Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, this cathedral is one of the finest examples of baroque art and architecture in the whole of Europe. Its interior is ornately decorated with gold leaf, fine paintings, and elaborate carvings. The cathedral also houses Caravaggio's famous painting, "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist." Situated in the heart of Valletta, a visit is an absolute ‘must’ for anyone wishing to learn about the history of the Knights and their role in Maltese history.
The Grandmaster's Palace in Valletta
Once the residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights Hospitaller, the palace now serves as the office of the President of Malta. It features opulent State Rooms and an impressive collection of armour and weapons in the Palace Armoury. The palace's architecture and artifacts provide insights into the life and times of the Knights of St. John.
Each of these sites offers a unique window into Malta's rich historical tapestry, ranging from prehistoric times to the era of the Knights of St. John. Visitors will not only enjoy the visual splendour of these locations but also gain a deeper understanding of the island's diverse cultural heritage.