Malta is located in Southern Europe. This small Island Archipelago has numerous top sites you should visit. Surprisingly, these attraction sites perfectly fit inside this archipelago. The culture of this republic is very unique and interesting. It is a combination of both Sicilian and Middle East culture. Malta also has a rich history. You might think you have gone back in time when touring around. This archipelago republic offers more than its deep blue sea, sheltered bays, marvelous beaches, sailing vessels and limestone cliffs. There are some places in Malta you should visit or your trip will be considered incomplete.
Valletta
Valletta is the capital city of Malta. Its legendary past made it be listed as a UNESCO heritage center. Valletta is surrounded by one of the greatest fortifications of all time. It is also ranked one of the grand harbors in Europe. Anyone who visits this site capital will defiantly have a nice time. Saint John’s cathedral attracts people all year round. This cathedral reflects the knights who protected Europe and all catholic followers during the 16th century from the Ottoman. The design of Saint John’s cathedral is also appealing to the eye. You will see the ceiling paintings and gilded walls immediately you enter inside this cathedral. That’s not all; there are eight chapels inside this cathedral. Make an effort of checking all the eight chapels.
Grand Master’s palace should be your next stop. This palace has been standing tall since the 16th century. Part of the palace is used as the office of the President. The public are allowed to tour the remaining part of the museum. You will be amazed by the palace armory inside the Grand master’s palace. The weapons and armors found in this section are believed to be from 15th to the 18th centuries. Cannons, bows, swords and firearms are some things you will see inside the palace armory section. You should check out some weapons and armor seized for the Ottoman warriors.
The Grand Harbor is another leading tourist attraction site in Valletta. This harbor is surrounded by numerous defensive towers, bastions and fortifications. This setting has made Malta survive the famous 1565 siege by the Ottoman invaders. Visit this harbor and admire the surrounding. You will also be able to see the large ships. Valletta also houses the national museum of Archeology. The national museum of archeology was opened in the year 1571. People visit this site to admire the beautiful architectural design and the archeological collections found in this archipelago.
Valletta is also the home of Manoel Theatre, listed among the oldest theaters. This theatre is lavishly decorated. You can request a tour guide or embark on the self guided audio tour. Try and visit this site when there is a live performance. You should also check out the church of Saint Paul’s Shipwreck, the national museum of fine art and the national war museum while in Valletta.
Vittoriosa (Birgu)
Birgu was the former capital of Malta before Valletta was built. It is also considered the oldest region in Malta. Birgu has grown as a historical center. It should be in your number one list of places to visit while in Malta. There are also a couple of tourist attraction sites in this former capital. The Malta Maritime museum suits those who are interested in the history of Malta. This museum also has an interesting history. It is definitely worth listening to. Carry on and make a stop at the inquisitor’s palace. This palace was built in the 1530’s by specific Knights. The architectural design of this palace will also impress you. Check out the tribunal room, prison cells, myriad dark legends and the chapel.
The Vittoriosa Parish Museum should be your next stop. This museum has plenty of exhibits. Some exhibits belong to one of the popular celebrities. Tour around this museum is free for all. Malta was struck by World War two. Visit the War Museum for a rough idea on what transpired during this war. This museum will help you understand how this war started and ended. You should also check out Fort St. Angelo while in Birgu. This fort dates back to the Norman times and has a very interesting history that can only be explained through visiting it.
The collachio Street highlights the different cultures in Malta. This street showcases different architectural designs both modern and from the middle age. You should also check out the church of Saint Lawrence and Auberge d’ Angleterre while in Birgu.
Blue Lagoon Island
The blue lagoon Island in Malta is one of the most relaxing and fun place. People looking for a good time should make Blue Lagoon Island their first stop while in Malta. There is beautiful natural vegetation surrounding this Island. People who love nature will enjoy every moment on this Island. There are numerous water fun activities you can engage yourself in. You simply need to rent the right equipment. Blue Lagoon Island is also the home of dolphins and sea lions. People can easily spot sea lions and dolphins while on water. Above all; Blue Lagoon Island offers a private getaway for people who want some quality time with their loved ones.
Don’t leave Blue Lagoon Island without swimming in the lagoon. Here, water is clear and you can see beneath. Embark on a journey to see the coral reefs while on this Island. The coral reefs allow you to see different tropical fish species. This Island has some beautiful white sand beaches. You can sunbathe here while enjoying the beautiful sceneries and flying birds. Services offered in Blue Lagoon Island depend on the selected package. Therefore, go for a package meets your needs.
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is a prehistoric site in Malta that is more than 6,000 years old. This underground burial chamber housed the remains of roughly 7,000 people. Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is divided into chambers and openings. Surprisingly, most parts of this prehistoric site were curved from natural rocks. Due to the demand of people wanting to visit this prehistoric site, you are encouraged to book a tour to this place roughly four months before your trip to this archipelago. The ancient architectural design of this prehistoric site will amaze you. Artificial lights have been placed on this site to offer proper view of this site.
Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra
This prehistoric temple was listed as an UNESCO world heritage site. It attracts people throughout the year to this location. It is located in Qrendi village. Hagar Qim & Mnajdra temple is believed to be over 5,000 years. This site can also be easily accessed from different parts of Malta. The appearance of this temple reveals it has been here for numerous years. It also overlooks Filfla Island and the sea. Hagar Qim & Mnajdra contains very huge stones. This prehistoric temple was buried beneath the earth until 1839. Visit Hagar Qim & Mnajdra temple to properly understand how this prehistoric temple was discovered.
Ever since, archaeologists have been able to discover a limestone alter and a couple of statuettes. You should consider an aerial view of this prehistoric temple. Hagar Qim & Mnajdra has been shaped as a giant paw when admired from an aerial view. You will also see that altars in this site look like small mushroom. You will definitely enjoy every single moment on this prehistoric temple.
St John’s Co-Cathedral
Malta also houses the famous St John’s co- cathedral. This cathedral is located in Valletta. It was built between the 16th and 17th century. The architectural and art decoration of this religious spot makes it beautiful. This is the reason people flock in from different parts of the globe to admire and appreciate the beauty of this cathedral. Embark on an audio tour when you visit this tourist attraction site. This audio tour explains to you everything about St John’s co-cathedral.
Mdina
Mdina attracts people throughout the year. The ancient look of this region makes people feel they have traveled back in time. You will enjoy every single moment in this medieval region. The Baroque main gate invites you to this town. This gate was built in the year 1724. You will see two glowing lions in front of this gate. The streets and paths on this town will make you feel like you are out of this world. Check out the cathedral of Saint Paul. The interior and exterior designs of this cathedral are appealing to the eye. Visiting this cathedral will help you understand it was built during the 14th century. You can take a couple of pictures to remind you of this beautiful cathedral.
Palazzo Falson fine art museum is another tourist attraction site you should check out. This museum showcases antiquities and fine art from different era. Here, you will see antique furniture, fine paintings and oriental rugs. There are also jewelries and roman coins, among others. Palazzo Falson fine art museum houses unique things that can only be found in this region.
Tour the natural history museum while in Mdina. Here, there are plenty of Paleontology and geology collections. You should also check out Mdina Dungeons museum and the cathedral museum.
St Peter’s Pool
St Peter’s pool is a natural pool. It suits tourists who want to relax and rejuvenate their bodies. St Peter’s pool is considered one of the most beautiful natural pools in Malta and Europe at large. Rocks below this natural pool offer a variety of sunbathing spots. There are high rocks around this pool that provide shade. You can take a dive into the sea if you want more adventure.
Il-Kastell Fortress
II-Kastell is the last place you should visit while in Malta. The surrounding walls of this tourist attraction site dates back to the 15th century. II-Kastell is located on top of a hill. Take time and walk around the city walls. The location of this tourist attraction site offers a perfect view of the sea and Gozo. II-Kastell attracts tourists all year round because of the museums and art shops. Ensure you visit the old Prison, Archaeology museum, Gran Castello Historic house and Gozo nature museum.
It is clear Malta has numerous hidden tourist attraction sites all over this archipelago. Anyone who visits Malta will definitely recommend it to their friends and loved ones. Check out this beautiful Island.