The Embassy Valletta Hotel recently shared a remarkable photo, originally posted by Malta Nostalgia, of Valletta’s City Gate from 1908, capturing a glimpse of Maltese history in a serene, bygone era.

Taken from behind the iconic City Gate, the image highlights the gateway to Malta’s capital as it appeared more than a century ago. Instead of the bustling urban energy seen in Valletta today, the photo reveals a calm and unhurried scene dominated by traditional karozzini - horse-drawn carriages that were a mainstay of Maltese transport in the early 20th century.

The karozzini, adorned with small, ornate details, stand ready to carry passengers through the city’s historic streets, a testament to a time when life moved at a slower pace.

The absence of modern vehicles and crowds lends the image a tranquil charm, allowing viewers to imagine what life might have been like in Valletta at the turn of the century.

This photo not only captures a picturesque moment but also preserves the memory of Valletta’s heritage, celebrating the city’s architectural and cultural legacy.

Do you remember a time when Valletta looked this serene?