Scenes from Valletta, Malta

Описание: As Malta’s capital city, it’s no surprise that there are many things to do in Valletta. The city was founded by the Knights of Malta in 1566, who left behind lots of points of interest. There’s everything from formidable fortifications and lush gardens to pretty palaces and family-owned shops.

In this episode, I capture some of Valletta’s grander attractions, as well as the smaller details that make this Mediterranean city so appealing.

For more on Valletta, visit my blog post:

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#travel #Valletta #Malta #culture #holiday #vacation #tourism #history

Musical score: Et Voila by Chris Haugen
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Transcription:

Through the City Gate of Valletta,
past the formidable walls
built by the Knights of St. John,
you will find dramatic architecture

and lively festivals
characterized by color
and lots of music.

Valletta was established in 1566 and designed in a grid pattern,
but it has enough flourishes
to keep things interesting.

As Malta’s capital city,
Valletta plays host to the country’s prime minister.
It also hosts international summits
and the Maltese Parliament,
which was designed by Renzo Piano.

Much of Valletta, to include the opera house,
was destroyed during World War Two.
But, Valletta has seen a rebirth in recent years,
injecting lots of life into the city.

There are many details to look for in Valletta,
including ornamental door-knockers
and the Maltese cross, a symbol of the Knights of St. John.

You will also spot statues tucked into niches
and olive trees dancing in the breeze.

Valletta’s location on a rugged peninsula
means that it has dramatic views of the Mediterranean
and of Malta’s coastal fortifications.

The Upper Barrakka Gardens
are one of the best places to soak up these views.
While you’re there, have a coffee break and maybe a cat nap.

Afterwards, stroll past colorful buildings,
up the city’s hilly streets,
until you reach a statue of Valletta’s namesake.

You might notice that almost everywhere you walk,
you’ll see enclosed, wooden balconies called “gallariji.”
Some are painted in vibrant hues,
while others have laundry drying in the Mediterranean breeze.

On Republic Street, you’ll find the Grandmaster’s Palace.
It was built in the 1560s. Throughout the centuries,
it has housed the knights’ grandmasters, British colonial governors, and Parliament.
Today, it’s the office of the President of Malta.

Near the Grandmaster’s Palace is the National Library.
It was the last official building constructed by the knights
and it’s a great place to delve deeper into Maltese history.

Even though Valletta is a capital city,
life here moves at a slower pace.

Locals take time for long chats,
and stroll the sun-drenched lanes,
sometimes, with a feisty Chihuahua in tow.

Horse-drawn carriages carrying tourists are a common sight,
while fishing and seaside barbecues are also popular.

Valletta has just under 6,000 residents
and still has family-owned shops.
They sell everything from fresh produce
and hand-made filigree jewelry
to sweet treats.

Many shopkeepers speak both Maltese and English, which are the country’s official languages.

Fort St. Elmo was the scene of intense fighting during the Great Siege of 1565.
Today, it houses the National War Museum.

Nearby, are the Lower Barrakka Gardens,
where you’ll find fragrant Oleander flowers,
a few palm trees,
and stunning views of Fort St. Angelo and the Three Cities.

This is a superb spot to watch the clouds roll by,
to read a good book,
or perhaps enjoy a picnic
while taking in
incredible scenes of Valletta.

#Valletta #Malta #travel