Culture
Exploring Birgu? Here are EIGHT of the best things to do in Malta’s maritime city
A city as old as time…

Emma Galea

Malta is home to many beautiful and historic cities, but there is something so incredibly special about Birgu…

The maritime city, otherwise known as Vittoriosa, is a fortified city facing the Grand Harbour. When the knights of Saint John arrived in Malta, they used it as their base before moving to Valletta in 1571.

Should you be planning on visiting this historic spot, here are eight of the best things we’d recommend doing to enjoy it to the full:

  • Catch the ferry or water taxi from Valletta

Although its perfectly feasible to go to Birgu by car or bus, it’s much more fun to catch the picturesque water taxi or ferry whilst enjoying the stunning views.

  • Have dinner by the waterfront

The Birgu waterfront is truly something that should not be missed. Have some delicious food at one of the many restaurants in the area whilst enjoying the views of the nearby sea.

  • Explore Fort Saint Angelo

Without a doubt one of Malta’s greatest landmarks, this fort is a must visit for all history lovers. It’s mostly known for its essential role during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. The city was named Vittoriosa as it was absolutely instrumental in Malta’s success over the Turks.

  • Walk around Victory Square

Stop for a quick drink at Victory Square whilst admiring the Victory Monument, built in 1705 to honour Malta’s win over the Turks.

  • Spend an afternoon at the Maritime Museum

With a collection of over 20,000 artefacts, this is the largest museum in Malta. Allow yourself to get lost wandering around this museum as you explore Malta’s rich maritime history.

  • Brush up on your military history at the Malta at War Museum

Malta was essential to the Allies’ victory in World War II and this museum, housed in 18th century barracks, will perfectly explain to you why.

  • Travel back in time at the Inquisitor’s Palace

This palace was built by the Knights of Saint John and served as the Inquisition’s office from 1574 to 1798. It has now become an ethnography museum.

Few palaces like this one have survived the wrath of the wars across the world, and this is the only one open to the public.

  • Get some quiet time at Saint Lawrence’s church

Nobody truly knows how old this church is, but it was named in a 1436 inventory, making it around 600 years old (at least).

It was heavily bombarded during World War II but what was damaged was soon rebuilt.

Instagram/film_ed04 & Instagram/eddycz

28th August 2022


Emma Galea
Written by
Emma Galea
Emma is a Gozitan writer who loves all things related to English literature and history. When not busy studying or writing you will either find her immersed in a fictional book or at the cinema trying to watch as my films as she possibly can!

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