1. National Library of Malta
Often known as the Bibliotheca, the neo-classical National Library is a reference library found in Piazza Regina in Valletta. Founded by Grand Master Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc in 1776, it became a legal deposit library in 1925, and was granted the title of Royal Malta Library in 1937 by King George V.
2. Hastings Gardens
Located on the west side of City Gate, Hastings Gardens are pubic gardens offering gorgeous views of Floriana, Msida, Sliema, and Manoel Island. The garden is dedicated to Francis, Marquis of Hastings, who was governor of Malta. The Sette Giugno monument is also located in these gardens.
3. Sacra Infermeria
Now known as the Mediterranean Conference Centre, the Sacra Infermeria dates back to the 16th century, during the Knights’ rule. Apart from being used as a hospital in various periods, it was also home to the School of Anatomy and Surgery at the Infirmary, and the Police Headquarters. Since then it was turned into a children’s theatre, used as an examination hall, and is now used as a conference centre and performance venue.
4. Fort St Elmo
Fort St Elmo is a star-shaped fort standing on the seaward shore of the Sciberras Peninsula. In 1488, the Aragonese built a watchtower on Saint Elmo Point, and in 1533, the Order reinforced the tower due to its impeccable strategic position. The Fort’s most notable battles were the Great Siege in 1565 and World War II.
5. Lascaris War Rooms
An underground complex of tunnels and chambers in Valletta, the Lascaris War Rooms housed the War Headquarters from where the defence of the island was conducted in World War II. The whole complex took three years to complete, and the site takes its name from the nearby Lascaris Battery. Nowadays, the rooms offer an exhibition of wartime maps, clothing, furniture, tools and operations - interesting to any historian!
6. Valletta Waterfront
The Valletta Waterfront is a promenade first developed in 1752, including 19 imposing stores and a church. The area was destroyed in an air raid during the Second World War, due to its proximity to the Malta Dockyard, but was later restored and renovated, and now hosts various restaurants, bars and retail outlets.
7. Toy Museum
“A nostalgic journey through the memories of your childhood.” This museum houses an extensive and impressive collection of toys from the 1950s onwards. Some examples include model planes, boats, matchbox cars, dolls and much more. The museum was opened by Vincent Brown in 1998, and now spreads over three floors.
8. Siege Bell War Memorial
With stunning sea views of the Grand Harbour, the Siege Bell War Memorial is an important monument. The surrounding landscape is part of the Lower Barraka Gardens, and it’s secluded area perfectly complements the monument’s purpose. This War Memorial solemnly commemorates the fallen heroes of World War II. It has also been scheduled as a Grade 2 National Monument.
Check them out the next time you visit Malta's stunning capital!