Valletta: A Portrait of Malta’s Capital

Malta has a truly dazzling capital: Valletta. It is an architectural masterpiece with a long history. Interestingly, it wasn't always the capital – it was chosen later because the peninsula offered specific strategic advantages. Today, Valletta is many things: the 2018 European Capital of Culture, a major port, and a tourist magnet. But one thing it is not: the actual centre of action in Malta.

The Foundation Stone Was Laid in 1566 by Jean de la Valette

The foundation stone was laid in March 1566, right after the Knights of St. John successfully defended Malta against the Ottomans. The master builder was Jean de la Valette, the Grand Master after whom the city is named. They decided to build a fortress city on this tactically valuable peninsula, following a strict military grid. This is how Valletta’s famous fortification walls came to be. Those same walls managed to withstand the heavy bombing by German and Italian forces during World War II, even while large parts of the city were devastated.

The Capital Valletta Has Half the Population of St. Julian's

Even though Valletta is the capital, the population has been shrinking for years. In 2013, only about 5,721 people lived there – that’s barely the size of a small village in the UK or Germany. In fact, Valletta has roughly half the population of St. Julian’s, which is where the real action happens in Malta. However, this has its distinct advantages. While St. Julian’s is very modern, Valletta’s style is historic, defined by limestone and traditional enclosed balconies. This creates a unique atmosphere that remains undisturbed thanks to the relatively quiet streets.

The Grand Harbour and Its Yachts

Today, Valletta houses almost all government buildings and the Carmelite Church with its famous dome (which you’ll see on just about every postcard of Malta). Then there is the Grand Harbour. This is where the massive cruise ships dock. For boating enthusiasts, a trip through the harbour offers a great view of the many large yachts registered in Malta. The city is also surrounded by bastions that once made it one of the most secure cities in the world – today, you can walk along them and enjoy the views.

Even if you won’t find the fast-paced lifestyle in Valletta, the city has immense charm. In my experience, it offers a welcome change of pace from the often stressful hustle of St. Julian’s.