City of Valletta
Valletta, Malta
31.12.2023
Stadt Valletta, also known as the "Fortress City," is the capital of the picturesque island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea. This stunning city, often referred to as the "jewel of the Mediterranean," was named after its founder, Jean de la Valette, a Grand Master of the Knights of St. John who successfully defended the island from a Turkish invasion in the 16th century.
Valletta is a small but vibrant city, with a population of just over 6,000 residents. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting beautiful Baroque architecture, fortified walls, and grand palaces. The city is also home to many museums, churches, and galleries, making it a paradise for history and art lovers.
One of the highlights of Valletta is its stunning Grand Harbour, which has been used as a natural harbor since ancient times. From the harborside, visitors can take a ferry to explore the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the water's edge.
The city also offers a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Maltese dishes and international cuisine. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas) and rabbit stew, or dine at one of the many upscale restaurants overlooking the harbor.
Valletta is also a shopper's paradise, with a range of boutiques, designer stores, and markets selling everything from local handicrafts to high-end fashion. The city is known for its traditional handmade lace and intricate filigree jewelry, both of which make for unique souvenirs to take home.
In addition to its rich history and cultural attractions, Valletta also offers a lively nightlife scene. From trendy bars and clubs to traditional wine bars, there is something for everyone to enjoy after the sun goes down.
Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, a shopaholic, or simply looking for a relaxing holiday destination, Stadt Valletta has something to offer. With its charming streets, stunning architecture, and warm Mediterranean climate, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Malta.
The capital of Malta is inextricably linked to the history of the military and charitable Order of St John of Jerusalem. It was ruled successively by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and the Order of the Knights of St John. Valletta’s 320 monuments, all within an area of 55 ha, make it one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world.
Valletta (, Maltese: il-Belt Valletta, Maltese pronunciation: [vɐlˈlɛt.tɐ]) is the capital city of Malta and one of its 68 council areas. Located between the Grand Harbour to the east and Marsamxett Harbour to the west, its population as of 2021 was 5,157. As Malta’s capital city, it is a commercial centre for shopping, bars, dining, and café life. It is also the southernmost capital of Europe, and at just 0.61 square kilometres (0.24 sq mi), it is the European Union's smallest capital city.
Valletta's 16th-century buildings were constructed by the Knights Hospitaller. The city was named after Jean Parisot de Valette, who succeeded in defending the island from an Ottoman invasion during the Great Siege of Malta. The city is Baroque in character, with elements of Mannerist, Neo-Classical and Modern architecture, though the Second World War left major scars on the city, particularly the destruction of the Royal Opera House. The city was officially recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980. The city has 320 monuments, all within an area of 0.55 square kilometres (0.21 sq mi), making it one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world. Sometimes called an "open-air museum", Valletta was chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2018. Valletta was also listed as the sunniest city in Europe in 2016.
The city is noted for its fortifications, consisting of bastions, curtains and cavaliers, along with the beauty of its Baroque palaces, gardens and churches.
