The Streets Of Valletta

By Rainer Von Helin on Sep 1, 2014                              

 

The city of Valletta, a registered UNESCO World Heritage site, known colloquially as Il-Belt in Maltese, is an understated pearl of the Mediterranean. This historic city has been chosen to be the European Capital of Culture in 2018 and preparations are already underway. Its baroque streets and 16th century buildings are truly magnificent, built during the rule of the Order of St John of Jerusalem. Although world war II left the city in a disastrous state, Valletta’s baroque palaces, gardens and churches stand proud and ready for visitors from all over the world. This grand harbor city has a character of its own. Imposing facades, statues of saints on every street corner and traditional Maltese balconies can be found on every street. Modern additions to the city, such as the new city gate and its surrounding area including a new parliament building are underway. The project submitted by world renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano started in 2009, and is now close to completion. Getting lost on the streets of Valletta is an attraction of its own. On many of the stepped streets you will find small cafes and quaint shops overlooking the harbour at a distance. Musicians play their instruments and stray cats crawl along the walls to find a shaded area. This ancient city is surprisingly still evolving, opening up new businesses, restoring old palazzos and preparing itself to own up to it’s title of European Capital of Culture in 2018. Majestic, inspiring and full of life, discovering the streets of Valletta is a must when visiting Malta.

 

 

More information on Renzo Piano’s Valletta City Gate Project here www.rpbw.com/project/86/valletta-city-gate

 

More information on Valletta Capital of Culture 2018 here www.valletta2018.org