La Valletta Malta
The first known human settlement in Malta dates back to 5200 BC. After more or less 7000 years, in 2004 Malta joined the European Union, only 40 years after having achieved its independence. Besides its ancient history, Malta has its own traditions, language (which is also an official EU language), architecture and cuisine. You may feel attracted to Malta because of it sunny climate, its beaches, its sea.. But do not forget to search for the foundation of Malta’s capital, La Valletta, laid by the Knights of Malta in the XVI century. La Valletta is one of the world’s greatest fortified baroque cities and it has been designated as World Heritage Site in its entirety. I remember how I felt when, from Upper Barrakka Gardens, created in 1661 by an Italian Knight as a retreat for fellow knights and La Valletta’s highest point, I could take in the view of the splendid Grand harbor with the medieval cities of Senglea, Vittoriosa and Cispicua in the background. You really could embrace Malta’s history. In a couple of days you can visit the most important sites around Republic Street, which runs along the lenght of the ity, from City gate to Fort St. Elmo. In the pedestrianized street, long more or less 2 km, you’ll easily fall into the remarkable St. John Cathedral, former a Knights’ conventicle church, actually one of the most ornate baroque churches of the world, which stands as a testament to the Knights’ culture and wealth. Inside St. John Cathedral, if you’ll be patient because you’ll probably have to queue for some times, you can admire one of Caravaggio’s masterpiece, ‘”The beheading of St. John the Baptist”. Half way down Republic Street have relax and a fresh drink in one of the outdoor cafés. Do not miss the Grand Master’s Palace, Malta centre of rule since 1571, nowadays seat of the Parliament (House of representatives and the President’s office). Fort St. Elmo stands at the end of the Republic Street: it owns its fame to the role played in the great siege of 1565 and in World War II. This is only a short view of La Valletta, but in Malta, as in Gozo and Comino you’ll have a lot of things to discover…
