“The island nation floating in the Mediterranean has remained relatively under the radar among U.S. travellers – but that’s changing now,” says writer Laura Itzkowitz. In Architectural Design’s ‘A Design Lover’s Guide to Malta’, Itzkowitz gushes about Malta’s spectacular architecture and its history.
Visitors from the other side of the pond are becoming more and more interested in our little island nation, partly due to Valletta being this year’s European Capital of Culture. “It’s high time architecture and design lovers turn their attention to Malta,” says Itzkowitz, “which has everything from well preserved medieval fortresses to a forthcoming contemporary art museum built into the original walls of Floriana.” The island’s architecture is influenced by the various rulers it had throughout its long history, from Phoenicians, Romans and Greeks, to the French, the Knights, and the British.
Naturally, the first location on Itzkowitz’s list is the capital of Valletta, which she describes as “the largest and most dynamic city on the island.” Notable mentions are the Phoenicia Hotel, which has been standing since 1939, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offering breath-taking views of the Grand Harbour, the open-air Royal Theatre, the 16th-century Grand Master’s Palace, and of course, the famous St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which houses two paintings by Caravaggio.
Venturing beyond Valletta, the former capital city of Mdina is next on the writer’s list. Dubbed the ‘Silent City’, the medieval walled Mdina will take you back in time to ancient battles and events unlike any other. The stunning Palazzo de Piro and Xara Palace were among the writer's top lunch recommendations - we also suggest Fontanella Tea Garden, with panoramic views of all of Malta and their famous chocolate cake that is to die for!
The iconic, historical site of Fort St. Angelo was also mentioned. The bastioned fort in Birgu is located in the centre of the Grand Harbour and was the headquarters for the Order of the Knights of St. John during the Great Siege of 1565. The famous artist Caravaggio was also imprisoned there for some time.
Last but not least, Iskowitz goes on to mention the sister isle Gozo. She notably mentions the recently-renovated fortified Citadel, within Gozo’s capital of Victoria, with roots that stretch back to the Bronze Age.