Most of these palaces belonged to the Knights of Saint John or Maltese noble families.
Few are the people who are lucky enough to live in literal palaces, so it comes as no surprise that visiting these grand sites is an activity enjoyed by many.
With that being said, here are eight of the best historic castles and palaces around the Maltese islands
1. The Inquisitor’s Palace
This stunning landmark in Birgu is a must-visit. Built in the 1530s, this palace was used by the Catholic Inquisition. It’s one of the few palaces of its kind that survived across the globe, and the only one which is open to the public.
2. Verdala Palace
This palace was built by the Knights of St John during the 1550's and has housed many Maltese leaders and countless other leaders from different countries – including Kings and Queens. Today, the palace is used as the President of Malta’s summer residence.
Even though it’s not open to the public, Verdala Palace is still an absolutely stunning piece of architecture to admire from the outside.
3. San Anton Palace
Speaking of Presidential residences, this is the official residence of the President during the winter months. The palace itself is also closed off to the public, but its surrounding gardens are very much open to anyone who wishes to visit.
4. Dragonara Palace
Mythologised and known as the area where a dragon once lived, this 19th century St Julian’s palace was built as a summer residence for the noble Scicluna Family, until it was sold off in the 1960s.
In 1964, the Palace was re-opened as a casino, the first of its kind in Malta. It remains open to this day, welcoming anyone who’s looking for a bit of Vegas-fun on the islands.
5. Vilhena Palace
Built in the heart of the Silent City, this French Baroque palace is home to the National Museum of Natural History – the perfect spot for anyone interested in both architecture and the environment.
For a while, this spot even housed an Apollo 17 moon rock, which was regrettably stolen and never recovered.
6. Casa Rocca Piccola
This palace was built during the construction of Valletta and dates back to the 1580s. As you can imagine, the Knights of St John wanted to do everything within their power to build one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe, and this palace is testament to that.
Apart from being absolutely stunning, Casa Rocca Piccola houses Malta's largest private collection of antique costumes, together with the largest private collection of Maltese lace.
7. Saint Agatha’s Tower (It-Torri l-Ahmar)
This brightly painted red tower (or small castle) in Mellieha is not only ideal for that perfect Instagram shot but will also give you stunning and unobscured views of Malta and its beauty.
It was even awarded a certificate of excellence by Tripadvisor, which continues to confirm how a visit to this tower is an absolute must.
8. Palazzo Falson
This Mdina Palace dates all the way back to 13th century. Most notably, this spot used to house the prominent Maltese noble family Falsone. Throughout the years, the palace was passed on from one owner to another until it was officially bought by Olof Gollcher – a Maltese Swedish man who owned a shipping business.
He was an avid collector and many of his rare collectibles can be seen when visiting the palace. It also houses a huge library, perfect for all the bookworms to admire.
Instagram/Jasamine Azzopardi & Instagram/CasaRoccaPiccola