Valletta, Malta
Valletta is the enchanting and historic capital city of the island of Malta. With a population of just 400,000, Valletta is a small city with big character. This is thanks to the stunning 16th century architecture, its picturesque position on the Mediterranean and the rich and fascinating history of the island and its capital.
History all around
Valletta is a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site, having been named as ‘one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world’. History is absolutely everywhere in this small, beautiful city.
Valletta has fantastic architecture that dates all the way back to the 16th century when the city was built by the Knights of St John. It is a fortress city, with fortification walls built to detract invaders after the island was nearly lost to the Ottoman Turks during the Great Siege. Visitors can walk a circuit route around the fortification walls, taking in breath-taking views of the city and peninsula. It’s the perfect way to get acquainted with Valletta on a first visit there.
Other ancient buildings visitors should check out during a trip to Valletta include St John’s Co-Cathedral, Grand Master’s Palace and Casa Rocca Piccola, an opulent aristocratic Maltese home.
European Capital of Culture 2018
Valletta has been chosen as one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2018. This programme of events and projects have been developed in conjunction with local and international communities and would make 2018 the perfect time to visit. Thanks to being chosen as a Capital of Culture, much money and time has been spent regenerating Valletta and ensuring that it is at its very best.
More to Malta
There is so much to explore on Malta beyond Valletta. Those who want to see more of the island can explore its famous beaches and stretches of coastline, Mdina – the ancient capital city and so-called Silent City and Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is an underground burial complex that is cut into solid rock, where some 7,000 bodies were deposited over a period of around 1,000 years. It is extremely moving and visitors should be aware that it is best to book in advance as conservation laws mean visitor numbers are strictly controlled.
A divers paradise
Malta offers some of the best diving opportunities in the Mediterranean and thousands of people visit the island every year for this reason. There are dive schools located all around the island and the waters offer some spectacular opportunities to see amazing underwater landscapes and shipwrecks. There are dives accessible from the shore and by boat and there are dives to suit all levels of experience.
Valletta is one of the most popular destinations that Chapman Freeborn charter private jets to and from. Malta International Airport is located just five miles from Valletta and is the perfect place to explore Valletta and further afield. Contact us today for a personalised quote for your travel dates and requirements.
