The Department of Malta’s Facebook page shined the spotlight on Malta’s capital, Valletta. Valletta is a city deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Order of St John of Jerusalem, a military and charitable order with roots in the Crusades. Covering just 55 hectares, the city boasts an astonishing 320 monuments, making it one of the most historically concentrated urban areas in the world.

The Knights of St John envisioned Valletta as a fortified refuge for wounded soldiers and pilgrims during the 16th-century Crusades. The city was strategically planned to rise on a peninsula, a position that would serve both defensive and humanitarian purposes.

In 1566, the first stone of the city was laid under the direction of Jean Parisot de la Valette, the Grand Master of the Order, after whom the city would eventually be named.

Over the course of just 15 years, the entire city was constructed by hand. Valletta’s unique layout features imposing bastions, grand forts, and the iconic St. John’s Co-Cathedral, all testaments to the city's blend of military architecture and religious devotion.

Valletta's architectural grandeur, historical significance, and well-preserved monuments have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's rich history, combined with its artistic and cultural landmarks, continues to make it a cornerstone of Maltese heritage and a must-visit for travelers worldwide.

Do you visit Malta’s capital city often?