What an amazing city. So much history, beauty, culture, food, architecture and ambience. Stunning Valletta, the capital city of Malta, seems to have it all. Iโll show you some photographs so you can see what you will be embraced with when you arrive.
Walking Around
Within the old city walls, Valletta is actually really easy to navigate. There are long streets going parallel to one another that will take you from the gate to the fort at the tip of the peninsula. Conversely, short streets going horizontally will take you back and forth, from side to side. I hope that makes sense, it does in my brain. ๐คฃ
One of the days I visited the city, I simply walked up and down all of the long streets, and made my way back to the city gate via the horizontal shorter streets. The terrain is a bit hilly, but definitely not too tough.
The Architecture
Oh those balconies (gallarija) and windows. You can tell from the photographs, I am in love. The architecture of the residential buildings is absolutely charming. Brightly painted wooden enclosed balconies with matching front doors. Often times, the windows will display Maltese lace curtains, so quaint and pretty.
You will see this architecture in all of the smaller towns and villages, so if you are not visiting Valletta, fear not. It is a common theme through the country.
The Food
Valletta has a huge foodie scene. There are numerous Michelin star restaurants if that is your pleasure. From quaint cafe’s to bustling sidewalk eateries, Valletta has the full array of dining options.
Malta is know for its rabbit stew and fish soup. If you are at all interested in these flavours, you can find these traditional dishes at almost every restaurant.
History
I wonโt go into any details here, but visitors are probably aware of the immense history of this city. You will see this in the gates, churches, fortified walls surrounding the city and the fort at the tip of the peninsula.
Walking around one cannot help but be completely immersed in the history of Malta. Whether you are conscious of the facts or just letting it seep into your being, you will feel it here.
My Favourite Find
My absolute favourite accidental discovery has to be the fishermen’s tiny shacks down at the waters edge under the walls of the fort.
I had no idea this area was accessible until I wandered down a set of stone stairs. Low and behold, an entire part of Valletta opened up before me, and it was amazing!
Unlike in Canada for example, where this type of area would be completely gated off from the public or roped and signed to the hilt, I was able to access it all. I clamoured over rocks, boulders, walls, old docks and completely worn sets of stone stairs. And I loved it.
Rugged Beauty
With the wind whipping my hair about, the glare blinding me from the water and limestone, I was on an adventure. There are amazing things to see down here. Beautiful graffiti of boats and a horse, painted by the fishermen.
The doors and windows of their shanty huts are painted brightly and so well kept. Not a lick of garbage anywhere.
People are coming down and sitting on the rocks to relax in the glorious sunshine. The crystal clear azure water is thrashing on the boulders and is perfect for the setting.
Ships and boats are coming and going from the mouth of the Grand Harbour. And behind? The huge fort walls soaring up into the sky. It was truly so much fun.
