If you were born (or moved to Malta) in the last few decades, chances are you’ve heard whispers about it, seen the graffiti, or explored its eerie remains, but never actually experienced it.

The Marsaskala community Facebook page has recently shared a series of throwback photos that transport us back to a time when the Jerma Palace Hotel stood on the coastline, long before it became a landmark of nostalgia.

Opened in 1982, the Jerma Palace was no small affair. Perched on the headland known as il-Ħamrija, the massive four-star, 700-bedroom hotel was developed by the Libyan Foreign Investment Company and managed by Corinthia Hotels International. At the time, it was a symbol of luxury, and it completely changed the face of Marsaskala, turning what was once a quiet seaside village into a tourist hotspot.

For years, Jerma welcomed holidaymakers from around the world with sea views, sprawling pools and grand interiors. But the glory days didn’t last forever. The hotel closed its doors in 2007, and nature – along with curious explorers – slowly took over.

Today, the abandoned structure is one of Malta’s most controversial urban exploration sites, famous for its dramatic decay (aided with storms such as Harry) and graffiti art. Its cinematic, post-apocalyptic look even caught international attention, earning a feature in Apple TV’s sci-fi series Foundation in August 2021. Locally, it's been used as a backdrop for various videos and photos requiring even a remotely haunting vibe, such as the music video filmed by local videographer and filmmaker Franco Rizzo for the song 'Stab Me in the Back' by Megafun and Andrea. 

All in all: a place that continues to fascinate, decades after the guests checked out for the last time.

Do you have any memories there?