Welcome to Valletta, the charming capital of Malta, a small sovereign island. As your cruise ship lands near the old walled city, you’re ready to embark on a day filled with history, culture, and exciting discoveries. You know! Valletta offers a wide range of experiences to satiate the curiosity and thirst for exploration of any visitor.
Source: Alamy
This blog post will provide you with a detailed guide to making the most of your cruise day and top things to do in Valletta, Malta on a Cruise (Malta). Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just enjoy discovering new places and we’ve got you covered. Let’s nowtake a tour this intriguing city, taking in both well-known landmarks and hidden jewels!
Top Things to do in Valletta
Getting Around Valletta
Valletta’s historic streets where each cobblestone has a story from the past are what give the city its appeal. It takes about twenty minutes to walk through a living history book from the port. Consider that more than 5,000 years ago, Malta was populated! Take note of the mixture of languages as you walk—English, a holdover from British colonization, and Italian because of their proximity. The majority religion on this beautiful island is-Catholicism.
Source: Canva
Currency and Shopping
The currency used here is the Euro and Valletta has great shopping. Streets are lined with designer businesses that entice you with handcrafted pottery, blown glass, brass door knockers and exquisitely woven Maltese lace. A genuine Maltese gem, the elaborate silver filigree jewelry is not to be missed.
Sightseeing Recommendations
Let’s explore the amazing details of the Mdina Cathedral and St. John’s Co-Cathedral:
1. St. John’s Co-Cathedral:
Location: St. John’s Co-Cathedral is a Roman Catholic co-cathedral devoted to Saint John the Baptist, and it is located in Valletta, Malta.
Timeline for Construction: Grand Master Jean de la Cassière of the Order of St. John commissioned the building which was completed between 1573 and 1578.
Architect: This amazing building was designed by Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar.
Source: WikiMedia
Style of Architecture:
- External design: Mannerist.
- Inside: A baroque design.
Magnificence within: The church’s interior is a European masterwork of high Baroque architecture.
Interior Splendor: In the seventeenth century, Mattia Preti and other artists redecorated it.
History: Grand Master Jean de la Cassière ordered the construction of St. John’s Co-Cathedral following the Great Siege in 1565. It replaced St. Lawrence’s Church in Birgu as the new conventual church of the Order after being originally known as Chiesa Conventuale di San Giovanni Battista. Later additions included the oratory and sacristy, which Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt finished in 1604.
2. Mdina Cathedral (St. Paul’s Cathedral)
Location: Found in Mdina, Malta, the historic walled city.
History and Legend: Tradition holds that Saint Publius, the Roman governor of Melite, once owned a palace on the location of the Mdina Cathedral. Paul healed the father of Publius and several other sick islanders, according to the Acts of the Apostles. Although this narrative is not entirely supported by archeological data, it is nevertheless a part of Malta’s complex tapestry of Pauline legends.
Early History: During the Arab era, the Blessed Virgin Mary was the subject of the first church built on this location, but it eventually fell into disrepair and it was used as a mosque throughout the Arab era. After the Norman conquest in 1091, Christianity was revived, and in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, a cathedral honoring St. Paul was constructed.
Baroque Transformation: The earthquake that struck Sicily in 1693 severely damaged the old cathedral. The Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà then disassembled and rebuilt it in the Baroque style between 1696 and 1705. Today, the cathedral is considered a masterwork by Gafà.
Significance: Since the 19th century, St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta has shared the title of seat for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Malta with the Mdina Cathedral.
Significance: A taste of Malta’s rich history, art, and spirituality may be found in both churches. Also- These architectural treasures are likely to make an impression, whether you’re an art enthusiast or just an inquisitive visitor.
Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/azwegers/47960212811
3. Shopping in Valletta
The old walls contain the center of Valletta’s shopping area. The gems of Republic and Merchant Streets beckon. Remember that stores often close from 1 to 4 p.m. and reopen at 7 p.m.
Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/travfotos/5753044342
Let us have a peek around Valletta, Malta’s beautiful retail environment. Whatever their degree of experience, everybody interested in one-of-a-kind souvenirs has to go to Valletta. What you should know is as follows:
Republic Street and Merchant Street
The main thoroughfares of Valletta’s retail quarter are Republic Street and Merchant Street. Republic Street- This is dotted with historic houses, quaint cafés, and chic boutiques. A variety of independent shops, galleries, and antique stores may be found on Merchant Street. You should not be shocked if, while exploring these cobblestone streets, you come across hidden treasures.
Source: WikiMedia
Source: Alamy
Maltese Lace: A must-purchase memento, Maltese lace is delicate and exquisite. Seek for shawls, doilies and tablecloths fashioned by hand from lace and also – each piece demonstrates remarkable craftsmanship and tells a story about creative tradition.
Source: Alamy
Blown Glass: Take a tour of glassblowing workshops to see the artists produce beautiful glass objects. Maltese glass blown by hand is both elegant and practical, ranging from vibrant vases to delicate decorations. Just think about bringing a piece of this classic craft home.
Source: Alamy
Brass Door Knockers: Elegant brass knockers decorate Valletta’s old doors. These superb & beautiful varied designs represent the city’s rich architectural past. Admire the knockers shaped like lions and select one as a fun memento.
Source: Alamy
Silver Filigree Jewelry: Maltese silversmiths employ the filigree method to craft elaborate jewelry pieces. Look for bracelets, pendants, and earrings with beautiful silver designs also each piece is an artistic work that incorporates both classic and modern design features.
Source: Alamy
Locally Made Pottery: Look for handcrafted ceramics at pottery stores. Most important thing- You can also find various items that are influenced by the history and landscapes of Malta, ranging from vibrant plates to ornamental tiles and these are great as presents or home decor items.
Source: Alamy
Memorable Valletta Experience
Although shopping in Valletta might be somewhat expensive- the high caliber and distinctiveness of the goods make it worthwhile. So embrace the Mediterranean atmosphere, let your inner adventurer out, and relish your cruise day in this fascinating city!
Source: https://api.flickr.com/photos/51839301@N00/52622831885/
Where history meets modern era, Valletta is a mesmerizing fusion of the old and the new. Take in the sights, engage in some shopping, and allow Malta’s atmosphere to envelop you. Memories to last a lifetime are promised on your cruise day in Valletta.
