Founded in 1724 and named after the military engineer responsible for its bastioned design, Pietro Paolo Floriani, the town of Floriana has stood as both Malta’s historical gateway and a thriving community in its own right. Having been officially declared a town on 9th May 1724, today marks its 302nd anniversary.
Often overshadowed by its larger neighbour Valletta, Floriana has long been the heart beating just outside the capital’s walls – a place where green gardens meet grand architecture, and small (yet popular!) spots like Vilhena Band Club and Balzunetta, which gather scores of diners and merrymakers in the evenings – the former sometimes even hosting exciting swing dance nights!
Floriana was originally designed to bolster Valletta’s defence, forming a crucial part of Malta’s fortified structure during the time of the Knights of St John. But over the centuries, it has grown into a characterful town with its own identity, home to beautiful gardens like the Argotti and the Mall, notable churches such as St Publius (whose feast is famously one of the most anticipated in the Maltese calendar), and one of the most iconic spots on the island – the Granaries (known locally as ‘il-Fosos’) – which has hosted some of the world’s biggest artists and musicians.
So if you find yourself walking along Triq Sa Maison with views of Marsamxett or tapping your toes to the jazz being played at Vilhena, keep in mind that you’re treading on centuries of history!
What’s your favourite Floriana memory?