A rich history like no other! Here are all the heritage sites you need to visit while discovering Malta’s Three Cities
Chances are that if you looked up things to do in Malta, you have come across a mention or two of Malta’s three cities otherwise known as Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea.
Locals also know them as Birgu, Bormla and Isla, but what makes these three cities so special?
They’re all situated next to each other surrounding Malta’s Grand Harbour, meaning they all played a huge part in all of Malta’s extensive maritime history.
Through the following heritage sites found in Malta’s three cities and their surroundings, you can continue to learn more about Malta’s history while also appreciating some great works of art and architecture.
Collegiate Church of the Immaculate Conception
Towering above Cospicua, this imposing parish church was completed in the 18th century, and stands on the site of a former, smaller church, which was built before the Great Siege of Malta. By 1822, it was elevated to the status of collegiate church. It houses notable paintings by Giuseppe Calì and the star oeuvre d’art – the titular statue of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary.
65, Gendus Street, Cospicua (2182 8413, www.cospicuaparish.org.mt)
Fort St Angelo
Originally built in the medieval period as a castle known as Castrum Maris (Castle by the Sea in English) and later rebuilt as a fort by the Order of St John, Fort St Angelo played a starring role throughout Malta’s military history. Today, it draws thousands of visitors who are keen to experience its architectural gems, panoramic views and immersive displays.
Xatt l-Assedju l-Kbir 1565, Vittoriosa (2540 1800, www.heritagemalta.mt)
Ghar Dalam
Set on the outskirts of Birzebbuga, this awe-inspiring cave is Malta’s oldest prehistoric site. The earliest evidence of human settlement in Malta was discovered here, alongside remains of Ice Age animals, some of which date back over 500,000 years. The site also features a Victorian-style exhibition and a garden containing local flora.
Ghar Dalam Road, Birzebbuga (2165 7419, www.heritagemalta.mt)
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, only this time it’s underground. The Hypogeum is a prehistoric subterranean necropolis featuring an array of interconnecting rock-cut chambers. The earliest remains found here date back to around 4,000BC. Be warned though, ticket sales are restricted to preserve the site, so booking ahead is definitely recommended.
Burial Street, Paola (2180 5019, www.heritagemalta.mt)
Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Archaeological Park
Considered to be among the most ancient ritualistic sites on earth, the 5,000-year-old megalithic monument of Hagar Qim pre-dates Stonehenge in England and the Pyramids of Egypt. Well-deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, it was built during Malta’s prehistoric Ggantija phase, and features mammoth stone structures overlooking spectacular sea views beyond the islet of Filfla. A mere 500m away, Mnajdra is another fascinating complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consisting of three megalithic monuments, the oldest dating back to 3,600-3,200BC, Mnajdra is among the most intact of the prehistoric structures in the Mediterranean region.
Hagar Qim Street, Qrendi (2142 4231, www.heritagemalta.mt)
Inquisitor’s Palace
Built in the 1530s, the Inquisitor’s Palace in Vittoriosa served as the official residence of many high-ranking individuals throughout its history. Today, it is a historic house museum and the national ethnography museum, boasting a busy outreach programme of events and educational sessions.
Main Gate Street, Vittoriosa (2182 7006, www.heritagemalta.mt)
Malta At War Museum
Set within 18th-century military barracks that were used as a wartime police station, the Malta at War Museum documents the islands’ endurance during World War II through a vast collection of war memorabilia and artefacts. Audio guides and tours are available for visitors to explore the extensive air-raid shelters.
Couvre Porte, Vittoriosa (2180 0992, www.maltaatwarmuseum.com)
Our Lady of Victories Basilica
Elevated to the rank of basilica by Pope Benedict XV in 1921, this impressive church was constructed in 1580 to commemorate Malta’s victory in the Great Siege. Among the treasures within Senglea’s parish church is a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, ornately gilded in silver and decorated in precious stones.
Pope Benedict XV Square, Senglea (2182 7203)
St Lawrence Church
Vittoriosa is among the oldest parishes in Malta, and St Lawrence Church served as the conventual church of the Order of St John between 1530 and 1571, before St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta was built. The present church was erected between 1681 and 1697, and is a stunning example of Roman-Baroque architecture with a marvellous interior, featuring a remarkable altarpiece – the largest canvas in Malta – by Mattia Preti depicting the martyrdom of St Lawrence.
91, St Lawrence Street, Vittoriosa (2182 7057)
St Lawrence Church Museum
Right next door to the church, within a 16th-century former chapel, is another site worth visiting: a charming museum displaying artefacts from Vittoriosa through the ages. Entrance is free (although donations are welcome), and makes for an interesting opportunity to view relics from the Great Siege and items used by the Knights of St John, including a hat and a sword that belonged to Grand Master Jean de la Valette.
91, St Lawrence Street, Vittoriosa (2182 7057)
Hal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex
The third and final UNESCO World Heritage Site in the area is the Hal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex, which dates back to between 3,600 and 2,500BC. The intricate stone carvings, spiral relief sculptures and ornate altars make this complex the most elaborately decorated of the megalithic monuments of Malta. The Tarxien Temples app is a helpful resource to discover the site in greater depth.
Neolithic Temples Street, Tarxien (2169 5578, www.heritagemalta.mt)