07/09/2020
Visiting Malta?
Here are top 10 facts I think you should know about Valletta, to help you plan your itinerary on the island
1. Built in the 16th century, Valletta was the first planned city in Europe, expertly designed by the Knights of St John during their reign in Malta.
2. Valletta and its spectacular Grand Harbour are two of the nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites to be found in Malta.
3. A historical treasure trove, Valletta boasts no less than 320 monuments, all housed within walking distance of each other.
4. A number of stunning architectural renovations were recently unveiled within the Valletta capital. These include the open-air theatre on the former Royal Opera House site; the main entrance to the city; and the brand new parliament building – all of which were designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano.
5. Malta is known to have a different church for every day of the year. Over 25 out of the 360+ churches built on the Maltese Islands are to be found within Valletta’s walls.
6. Standing among Europe’s oldest working theatres is the Manoel Theatre, also built by the Knights Order.
7. Valletta will wear the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018. Make sure to stay updated on the range of interesting events and activities taking place as part of a rich cultural programme in the run-up to this highly anticipated year.
8. Valletta is the second southernmost capital of the EU member states, only to be preceded by Nicosia in Cyprus.
9. Occupying a space of 0.8 square kilometres, Valletta ranks as the smallest capital city in the European Union.
10. Valletta bears the name of its founder, the French Grand Master Knight Jean Parisot de Valette, who unfortunately died before the city’s construction was completed.
