Do you remember the time before McDonald’s became one of Valletta’s best-known landmarks? 

Facebook user Peter Galea took to Facebook group Malta Lura Fil-Passat to share an image showing what Republic Street looked like back in the 70s - and it’s safe to say that a lot has changed.

Before the iconic golden arches dominated this iconic Valletta street, its premises were instead home to the quintessential D. Buhagiar shop which apparently served the "best pastizzi way back in the 70s," one commenter said. 

Known colloquially as Dimitri’s, this shop would serve a variety of snacks and beverages, which could then be enjoyed within the establishment’s very own ‘private room’. 

After it shut down, D. Buhagiar’s premises were taken over by yet another coffee shop, known as ‘Spinella’, which eventually gave way to McDonald’s. 

For a long time, the iconic Valletta toy shop Kingsway Store was situated adjacent to McDonald’s.

Known for the delightful memories it provided to the young generations, the shop was sometimes referred to as the doll's hospital for its toy-repair services and was also the only licensed Subbuteo distributor in Malta.

Kingsway only closed its doors in 2020, making way for Tiffany's Gelateria.

The post’s comments section was flooded with contrasting statements, with some reminiscing on the good old days and others commending the fact that recent developments allowed the city’s architecture to be better enjoyed by onlookers.

Peter Galea/ Facebook