It’s Valletta’s birthday! Our beloved lilliputan capital turns 453 today! Valletta’s foundation stone was laid by Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette on 28th March 1566. The city “built by gentlemen for gentlemen” has been through her fair share of trials and tribulations over the years, but is now flourishing as a strong and renovated capital in Europe. And, with such an extensive history, Valletta deserves a little praise on her birthday! Here are eight cool facts about Malta’s bustling historic city.
1. Valletta is not only Malta’s capital but a World Heritage site
UNESCO described it as ‘one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world,’ recognising it in 1980. Isn’t she a gem?
2. It’s basically an open-air museum
With a story or mystery on every corner, it’s no wonder people flock the streets every day to see the gorgeous array of sights.
3. Valletta has welcomed people from all over the world
Emperors, Heads of States, artists, poets, presidents, royals – you name it! Lord Byron, Queen Elizabeth II, King Edward VII, Meghan Markle, JFK and Caravaggio are just a handful!
4. The city is nicknamed Superbissima
The name is Italian, meaning ‘most proud,’ due to the grand bastions, cavaliers, palaces, gardens and churches. Such a beaut!
5. The area had various names before it became Valletta
During the Arab period, it was known as Xaghret Mewwija or Hal Newwija. The extreme end of the peninsula was known as Xebb ir-Ras. A family which owned land on the peninsula became known as Sceberras, which later lead the peninsula to be Sciberras Peninsula.
6. A city like no other
Valletta has seen it all. From Ottomans and French blockades, to World War II air raids and becoming independent, Malta’s capital is a testament to the bravery and strength that the Maltese embody.
7. Valletta is a beautiful palette of art and architecture
The city is the best example of an incredible array of art and architecture through time. The now-contemporary city also shows off Baroque, Mannerist, Neo-Classical and Modern buildings, as well as art dating back centuries.
8. The European Capital of Culture
Valletta was named European Capital of Culture in 2018, which saw the involvement of myriad arts and cultural events across the board, enticing the population and visitors to witness the reborn grandeur that is Valletta.
It’s safe to say that there’s no city like Valletta in the world!