Attractions
Why it’s easy to be enchanted by Palazzo Parisio
Take a delightful break from modern reality within the walls of this charming 19th century palace. Let yourself be enchanted by Palazzo Parisio.

Melanie Drury

Palazzo Parisio Gardens

There is something about Palazzo Parisio that just captures me. When I lived in Naxxar, a visit to the Church Square invariably ended with a quick visit. I’d cross the road from the Church, walk through its majestic wooden doors and across the subtle elegance of the hall, past the inviting tea garden, and lose myself beyond the gate leading to the gardens. I’d go on to have a delightful break from modern reality within the walls of this charming 19th century palace.

In the gardens, time seems to stand still. Not a sound but the wind through the trees and the chirping of birds. I’d wander around the pond and curiously explore every mysterious corner, every inspiring tree, every gorgeous flower, every tender leaf, and find my zen. I’d invariably ponder how the beautiful gardens change with the seasons, and secretly envy whoever lived in those pretty little houses along one side that overlooked this wonderful place.

Palazzo Parisio Luna Terrace

I’d edge my way out of the place slowly, stopping at the Luna restaurant terrace and tea garden that lies between the main gardens and the Palazzo itself.

This is the time for a personal treat. Whether I’d decide on indulging in a full lunch or enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea with scones in the shade of a lavish umbrella, I’d get a royal feeling from enjoying such a sumptuous environment complete with gazebo and fountains.

Palazzo Parisio Gardens 2

Inside, the tea room and restaurant decor is gorgeous and inviting, yet the sunshine and fresh air tend to win me over most times! But the ambience by night, soft and stunning, is an experience to be had, no doubt.

Palazzo Parisio Tea Room

Every aspect of the form of Palazzo Parisio evokes my spirit. I feel embraced by the warmth of the decor, captured by the intricate details, inspired by the subtle yet evident class. It is delicate, yet powerful. I like that.

Palazzo Parisio Luna Restaurant

Inevitably, a visit to the restrooms is due and Palazzo Parisio is one place where such experience is absolutely charming. Every aspect of the bathroom decor spells good taste and subtle luxury, from the tiles and fittings to the curious paintings on the wall. You know you’re onto something when the bathrooms are something to write home about! And the contemporary decor of the facilities serves only to highlight the authentic traditional charm of the Palazzo itself.

Palazzo Parisio Deco Details

It is hard to imagine that this place began as a mere hunting lodge back in 1733. The property has changed hands and uses along the years, including a bout as barracks during the French occupation and another as a college run by Jesuits. It is Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna, who purchased the property in 1898, who is responsible for the aesthetics we see within the Palazzo today, despite sadly not living long enough to enjoy it before it was completed.

Palazzo Parisio Ballroom

The palace has aptly been described as "a miniature Versailles,” with its richly decorated interior including frescoes, statues, columns, chandeliers and other works of art as well as a gilded ballroom unique to Malta. It is indeed a pity that the Marquis could not fully enjoy his creation, but he did leave an impressive legacy for generations to come. Indeed, the gilded ballroom creates dreams of fairytale weddings that spill out onto the lavish gardens, and many couples today can and do make that dream come true!

Palazzo Parisio Fresco

A tour around the Palace invites anyone to peek at life in bygone times, a time when beauty was highly regarded over the practicality that drives society today. It takes you from the entrance hall and grand staircase to the detailed and extraordinary decor of the ballroom, music room, billiard room, Marquis’s study, family chapel, Pompeian dining room, Bedroom and John’s room, and Sala Lombarda. Even the landing and cellars are points of interest and the well-preserved 19th century Scicluna carriage is charming to behold.

Palazzo Parisio Boutique & Gift Shop

Forever captivated by the contrasts of this place: nature versus architecture, the modest Art Nouveau vs the opulent Baroque, the old vs the new, I inevitably wish to hold a part of it with me. This is where the boutique and souvenir shop opens up possibilities to enjoy a beautiful gift to myself as a memoire of this memorable experience at Palazzo Parisio.

Thankfully, the Marquis’s grand-daughter and great-grand-daughter have taken on the responsibility to act as custodians of this beautiful building and its gardens.  They have maintained the grandeur their ancestor created and then added some of their own style and certain feminine flourishes that certainly enhance the sense of luxury that surrounds you. Their appreciation and fondness of the palace and gardens certainly rub off onto all who work here and all those who visit.

Palazzo Parisio Chandelier

Contact

For more information about events and weddings at Palazzo Parisio or for Luna restaurant bookings, contact via email on [email protected] or telephone +356 21412461 (Luna Restaurant extension 2). You can visit Palazzo Parisio at 29, Victory Square, Naxxar.

Alan Carville

9th June 2018


Melanie Drury
Written by
Melanie Drury
Melanie was born and raised in Malta and has spent a large chunk of her life travelling solo around the world. Back on the island with a new outlook, she realised just how much wealth her little island home possesses.

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