Valletta

Valletta is Malta’s capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in history and culture. It is home to stunning architecture, museums, and bustling commercial streets. Valletta is a major tourist destination with a unique blend of old and new.

About Valletta

Valletta was constructed by the Knights of St John, this fortified historic jewel is affectionately referred to by the inhabitants as “The City,” or Il-Belt, and offers a wonderful opportunity to live in a baroque setting.

Since Valletta is conveniently located in the middle of most communities, it serves as the perfect hub for the entire island. It provides a wide variety of retail options. The primary artery is Republic Street. Side streets are home to a variety of businesses, including boutiques, little corner stores, new shops, century-old shops, and more.  

History

The Knights Hospitaller built Valletta’s structures in the sixteenth century. The city is named after Jean Parisot de Valette, a Frenchman who, during the Great Siege of Malta, was successful in repelling an Ottoman invasion from the island. Despite the Second World War leaving significant damage in its wake, the city retains its Baroque architectural style with touches of Mannerist, Neo-Classical, and Modern architecture. However, the demolition of the Royal Opera House during WWII left significant damage on the city. The settlement was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.

The city’s churches, gardens, and Baroque residences are all well-known for their beauty, as are its walls, which have bastions, curtains, and cavaliers. Real estate options in Valletta range from post-World War II apartments to historic palazzos from the 16th century. Structures constructed during the height of the Colonial era, as well as contemporary, remodelled mansions that occasionally become available for purchase or rental use.

Where Valletta Sits on the Island

Valletta is situated on the Sciberras Peninsula, between Marsamxett Harbour to the north and the Grand Harbour to the south. It falls within Malta’s Southern Harbour District and is part of the Eastern Region.

Despite being one of the smallest localities in Malta, covering approximately 0.6 square kilometres, Valletta has considerable historical and administrative importance. It borders Floriana, which provides the main land approach to the capital, while Sliema and the Three Cities are easily accessible across the surrounding harbours.

Valletta is also Malta’s administrative and commercial centre, home to Parliament, government ministries, foreign embassies and several major cultural institutions. Its central position makes it particularly convenient for people working in the capital or travelling regularly to other parts of the island.