Exploring The 10 Best Historical Sites in Malta

Malta as a small country located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea is a historical gem for tourists with interest in history. Malta has a rich history and beautiful sceneries, both ancient and medieval as well as a modern architecture that would make the travel experience interesting for history lovers. Beginning from Prehistoric sites such as the Megalithic Temples and moving to Ancient Architecture such as the Roman and Greek times, Historical Sites in Malta has seen it all, not to mention the Baroque Architecture of the many wonderful churches, and Cathedrals that are seen on the island.

If you are reading this while planning for a trip to some of the sites in Malta, then prepare yourself for a good time. This island has many famous historical buildings that are found in Malta and are of different architectural designs. Whether you are interested in archeological sites, Historical Sites in Malta, fortresses, or churches, there is much to see for every history freak in Malta. If you are planning for a trip to this beautiful island to explore the beautiful history of this country, then make sure you Apply Malta Visa from India before planning for a trip.

Here are the Exploring The 10 Best Historical Sites in Malta

1. The Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni

The Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni is an individual prehistoric temple and burial complex situated in Paola. It dates back to about 4000 BC and is one of the most outstanding prehistoric sites in the country. The temple contains several rooms, halls, corridors, and the so-called “Oracle Chamber,” which, most likely, was used to perform sacred rites. Tourists can walk through this UNESCO World Heritage site and appreciate the artworks of Maltese prehistoric people. Being the only prehistoric underground temple in the world, the Hypogeum presents an unique opportunity to learn more about people who first settled in Malta.

2. Ħagar Qim and Mnajdra Temples

Pictured Maltese ancient complex of Ħagar Qim and Mnajdra are brilliant examples of megalithic architecture on the southern coast of Malta. These were erected around 3600 BC and were great temples made of very large stones some of which could weigh several tones. The location of the temples indicates that they were created as per the movements of the sun, hence most likely used for its cult practices. There are altars, courtyards and other such structures, as well as many interesting engravings which provide a real insight into life in Malta during prehistoric times. The site also has the scenic beauty of the Mediterranean Sea something that enhances its history and nature to make it be one of the most spectacular places in the world.

3. Fort St. Elmo

Fort St. Elmo is a military structure that was built at the end of the breakwater of Valletta and which dominates the Grand Harbour. Constructed in the sixteenth century, it was appointed to serve as an important military fortification of Malta especially during the Great Siege of the island in 1565 during which it stood a long siege by the Ottoman Empire. The fort has been well maintained and tourists can walk around the parapets, the bastions and a military museum. It boasts of having a commanding position that affords spectacular views of the harbor and the fort is one of the best examples of renaissance military architecture in the Mediterranean.

4. The Grand Master’s Palace

The Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta was the home of the Knights of St. John in the 16th century It is an imposing Baroque building. People can visit its opulent staterooms, the State Staterooms, the palace’s Armoury, which contains hundreds of pieces of historical weaponry. The palace also houses the presidency of Malta in the Office of the President of Malta. Historically rich and full of various legends about the Knights and Malta’s political and military history.

5. St. John’s Co-Cathedral

St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta must be among the best examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. The cathedral’s interior is rather brightly painted with the wonderful frescoes and marble floor and golden altars. It also has two paintings by the celebrated artist Caravaggio among them is the gripping “Sacrifice of John the Baptist.” The construction of the cathedral began in the 16th century when the island was used by the Knights of St. John as their headquarters and is still a religious building. Being a place with luxurious decoration and having a lots of history in it, it is very popular among tourists who are interested in the history of the Malta.

6. Mdina – The Silent City

Mdina is the historic silent city this is a medieval town that has an amazing look of a close city. Being a city on a hill, Mdina is somewhat reminiscent of medieval architecture, density, and narrow streets, as well as ancient buildings. Mdina Cathedral has a Baroque style of architecture and visitors can enjoy the views of the island from the town’s Bastions. Famous for its quietness, Mdina does not lose its medieval appearance, most of the buildings are of the Norman architecture. It is among the most interesting sites to visit in order to learn about the history of the Maltese Islands.

7. The Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua

The Three Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua are a group of fortified towns located on the opposite side of the Grand Harbour from Valletta. These cities were very important in the defenses of Malta during the Great Siege of 1565. Tourists can roam around the beautiful coutryside, view the monuments and castles that illustrate the Malta’s strategic significance during middle age and the early modern age. These are Fort St. Angelo in Vittoriosa, the Inquisitor’s Palace, and the magnificent St. Lawrence Church in Senglea. The Three Cities give a true Maltese feel of the island’s maritime and military past.

8. The National War Museum – Fort St. Elmo

Fort St. Elmo in Valletta hosts the National War Museum, which presents Malta’s role in the two world wars. They also have a vast collection of exhibits, such as military equipments and costumes, weapons, and equipment of the soldiers who fought in that island. This is one of the most important pieces in the museum and is the George Cross presented to Malta by King George VI in recognition of the Island’s heroic stand during the Second World War. The museum also showcases Malta as a British Royal Air Force base during the war. The best site for the lovers of history and especially those who want to learn about the modern military history of the island.

9. The Tarxien Temples

The Tarxien Temples are a well preserved prehistoric structure and is included in the list of World Heritage by UNESCO. Located around 3150 BC the site is composed of four megalithic temples built in a complex structure. The temples are best known for the carving work, animal designs, spirals and the position of the temples towards the sun. It is estimated that the site was a place of worship and it has been described as a very important archaeological site of Malta. The Tarxien Temples are the ruins of an ancient civilization in the island and the visitors can walk around the area.

10. The Blue Grotto

What makes Blue Grotto especially popular is the fact that is one of Malta’s richest wonders of nature which can be found on the southern coast of the island. This series of sea caves has clear water and the blue color that is reflected from the walls of the caves can be seen. It is believed that the caves were employed by the Phoenicians, Romans and Byzantines for different reasons including as a shelter and a harbor. They Ningaloo Coast offers visitors the opportunity to take a boat and have a look at the caves and gaze at the stunning sceneries. The Blue Grotto is also a dwelling of several fish and other marine animals, and therefore is favorite spot for divers and nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion:

we have always found every structure and every monument in Malta to be like being transported to a different time in history each time. The island of Malta and Gozo are packed with history starting from the Megalithic Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni up to the Baroque masterpiece of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Anyone interested in the past will find something to love in Malta: ancient cultures, the thrilling medieval and the Renaissance structures including the forts.

When planning a trip to this Mediterranean country, the first thing you should know is how to Apply Malta Visa from India. Once you get the right visa, you can be assured of getting the best out of the island’s rich history and be in awe of the historical sites in Malta. Malta has a unique combination of the most beautiful and interesting places that will make your trip very special.

Recommended Destinations:

China Tour Package | Uzbekistan Tour Package | Egypt Tour Package | Europe Tour Package | Paris Tour Package | Bhutan Tour Package | Kazakhstan Tour Package | Armenia Tour Package | Hongkong Tour Package | Kenya Tour Package | Tanzania Tour Package

Domestic Tour Package:

Meghalaya Tour Package | Rajasthan Tour Package | Hyderabad Tour Package | Golden Triangle Tour India | Darjeeling Tour Package