In the past, the Maltese Islands have been described as a treasure in the middle of the Mediterranean, and as a local myself, I must agree. Here are 10 must-see spots around our islands and gorgeous snaps that capture them in all their glory.
1. Mdina’s main gate
Mdina’s gate has welcomed many, whilst also defending the city from unwanted visitors. Rich in history, Mdina is full of mysterious tales to tell, so roaming around the Silent City’s streets won’t be disappointing.
2. Blue Lagoon
The best summer spot that is totally #Instaworthy. Locals and visitors alike head over to this gorgeous location in the warmer months for sun, sea, and summer sunburns (oops!).
3. Marsaxlokk fishing village
This southern seaside town in Malta is known for the great catches, and has been dubbed the island’s ‘fishing village.’ A distinctive feature? The traditional and colourful Maltese luzzus bobbing up and down by the seashore.
4. Little Filfla
Possibly the littlest island of Malta’s archipelago, Filfla seems lonesome out there on her own. But this stunning shot captures her in all her glory. The only known structure to have been built on the island was a chapel built inside a cave in 1343. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 1856, leaving the isle completely barren.
5. Triton Fountain
Located on the periphery of Valletta’s City Gate, the Triton Fountain was first completed in 1959. It consists of three beautiful bronze tritons holding up a basin. In 2018, it received some desperately-needed TLC when it was restored by an Italian company based in Florence. The result? Beautiful!
6. Dwejra (post-collapse)
While mentioning the Azure Window comes as a sting to Maltese hearts, Dwejra is still a gorgeous location on Malta’s sister isle of Gozo. At least we’ll get to forever rewind Game of Thrones season one to get a glimpse of the beautiful, fallen structure.
7. Upper Barrakka Gardens
A public garden in Malta’s capital, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer a stunning panoramic view of the Grand Harbour like no other. The gardens are now linked to Valletta’s ditch and the nearby Lascaris Wharf by the recently installed Barrakka Lift. Gorgeous, aren’t they?
8. Dingli Cliffs
Dingli Cliffs is known to be the highest point of the Maltese Islands, where sky meets sea. It’s a must-see spot that offers breath-taking views of the big blue and little Filfla! The cliffs are considered to be natural forts since it is impossible to approach the island given their impressive height.
9. St John’s Co-Cathedral
A top cultural attraction is St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. This magnificent building has been around for centuries, recently being restored to its former glory. Built during the Knights period in the 16th century, the cathedral and museum boast Baroque art and architecture. There’s even the priceless painting by Caravaggio depicting St John’s beheading inside.
10. Gozo’s Cittadella
The Cittadella in Gozo is an ancient fortified city and one of my personal favourites on the islands. The city was once inhabited by nearly all of the Gozitan population, but nowadays only a few families live within the Citadel walls. The Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, makes a great Instagram shot. I mean, just look at her!
Aren’t they magnificent? Have you been to any of these places?