Valletta, Malta

Overview

Malta may be a tiny island with a population of just 400,000, but it is a fantastic tourist destination and a popular stop on the Powerboat P1 calendar. The beautiful waters off the capital city of Valletta once again play host to the Maltese Grand Prix of the Sea.

Valletta is as picturesque as it is diverse. While its current population is relatively small at a little over 6000, its charm lies in its history and aesthetic beauty. The city is listed as a World Heritage Site. And for good reason – it’s an architecture lover’s paradise. While predominantly Baroque-inspired, Valletta’s skyline also blends elements of Neo-Classical and modern architecture. Add to this waterfront views and an almost-medieval feel, and its hard not to get swept up in the city’s immutable nostalgia.

Established in 1566 following the Siege of Malta, Valletta – and Malta, for that matter – has endured periods of both French and British rule. For centuries, it was regarded as one of the most fortified cities in the world, and its fortifications indicate its heritage as a stronghold for navies looking to control the Mediterranean. The Valletta Peninsula is divided by two harbours: Marsamxett and the Grand Harbour, the latter of which has been used since Roman times. Today, these harbours and surrounding islands host a hive of exciting aquatic activity.

Don’t leave Valetta without…
* Checking out the magnificent St John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Michelangelo’s largest single work.
* Seeing a performance at the magnificent Manoel Theatre, one of the oldest in Europe.
* Wandering around the Neolithic temple at Hagar Qim and its neighbouring headland.
* Visiting the Casa Rocca Piccola, the palace of the ninth Marquis of Piro, part of Malta’s royalty. 
* Sampling Malta’s scrumptious local delicacy, pastizzi – a boat-shaped pastry usually filled with ricotta cheese and egg.
* Soaking up the views of the Grand Harbour from the hilltop Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Valletta/Malta fact file
Time zone: GMT +1hrs
Location: Mediterranean Sea
Neighbouring countries: Sicily, Tunisia and Libya
Capital city: Valletta
Language: Maltese. English is spoken widely, but not as commonly as in Europe.