Remembering the bay before the bustle! Check out this old photo of St Julian’s back in the day
A recently shared black and white photograph in the ‘St Julian’s Malta’ Facebook group offers a nostalgic glimpse into a quieter, simpler era of St. Julian’s Bay.
The scene, likely taken in the early to mid-20th century, shows a waterfront that feels worlds away from the lively restaurants and nightlife we know today. A truck and a horse-drawn carriage can be seen side by side along the shoreline; an interesting overlap of old and new forms of transport that reflects a moment of transition in Maltese history.
Traditional limestone buildings line the bay, their facades unchanged in spirit even if time has reshaped their roles. Several small fishing boats rest in the water, a reminder that St. Julian’s was once primarily a humble fishing village, long before it became a bustling tourist destination.
For many locals, the image evokes memories passed down from grandparents; stories of early morning fishing trips, village gatherings, and leisurely walks along the promenade. It highlights the charm that has always defined the area, even as modern development continues to reshape it.
Do you remember St Julian’s looking this peaceful?