HISTORIC CITIES. TIMELESS STORIES.
Malta
Discover an island crossroads of Mediterranean history, where prehistoric temples, fortified harbours and Baroque streets tell extraordinary stories. From Valletta and Mdina to the Three Cities, Gozo and colourful fishing villages, Malta brings centuries of culture within easy reach.
ISLANDS SHAPED BY THE SEA AND CIVILISATIONS
Discover Malta Through the Ages
Ancient temple builders, Phoenician merchants, Roman communities and the Knights of St John all left their mark on Malta. Discover atmospheric walled cities, prehistoric monuments, grand fortifications and the maritime traditions that connect Malta and Gozo to the wider Mediterranean.
EXPLORE BY DESTINATION
Discover Malta’s Destinations
Valletta
Explore Malta’s UNESCO-listed capital, founded by the Knights of St John, with St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster’s Palace, bastions and sweeping Grand Harbour views.
Mdina
Step into Malta’s ancient walled city, with narrow medieval lanes, noble palaces, St Paul’s Cathedral and layers of Roman, Arab and later island history.
Three Cities
Explore Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea and Cospicua, where the Knights built their first harbour strongholds and the Great Siege of 1565 left a lasting legacy.
Gozo
Discover Malta’s sister island, from Victoria’s fortified Citadel and rural villages to the extraordinary prehistoric Ġgantija temples.
Marsaxlokk
Visit a traditional fishing village with colourful boats, a lively waterfront and nearby St Lucian Tower, reflecting Malta’s coastal-defence heritage.
MALTA THROUGH THE AGES
A Brief History of Malta
Malta’s strategic position in the Mediterranean has attracted settlers, traders and empires for millennia. Prehistoric temples, medieval town walls, Knights’ fortifications and wartime shelters bring that layered history vividly to life.
c. 3600–2500 BC
Megalithic Temples
Island communities build remarkable stone temple complexes, including Ġgantija, Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra.
870
Arab Rule
Arab conquest begins a period that profoundly influences Malta’s language, agriculture and place names.
1530
Knights of St John
Emperor Charles V grants Malta to the Knights Hospitaller, launching an era of fortification and maritime power.
1565–1566
Great Siege & Valletta
The Knights and Maltese defenders withstand the Ottoman siege; construction of Valletta begins the following year.
1814
British Rule
The Treaty of Paris confirms Malta as a British possession, shaping its ports, institutions and later wartime role.
1964–1974
Independence & Republic
Malta gains independence in 1964 and becomes a republic in 1974, retaining its distinctive island identity.
Ancient Civilisations
Prehistoric temples and archaeological sites trace a remarkable island civilisation long before Malta’s historic fortresses.
Knights’ Heritage
Valletta, Birgu and the harbour forts preserve the architectural legacy of the Knights of St John and the Great Siege.
Maritime Crossroads
Harbours, watchtowers and fishing villages reveal how seafaring trade and defence shaped Maltese life over centuries.
PLAN YOUR MALTA TRIP
Everything You Need for Malta
Plan a history-rich visit to Malta and Gozo, including historic stays, guided fortification walks, island transport and flights.
Hotels
Find hotels in Valletta’s historic streets, around the Grand Harbour, in Mdina’s surroundings or on the quieter island of Gozo.
Tours & Activities
Discover walking tours of walled cities, prehistoric temple visits, harbour cruises and experiences exploring Malta’s heritage.
Car Hire
Explore Malta and Gozo at your own pace, visiting historic villages, coastal watchtowers and archaeological sites beyond the main towns.
Flights
Compare flights to Malta International Airport, the island nation’s main air gateway.
Trains & Buses
Plan buses and local connections around Malta; use ferries to reach Gozo and cross the Grand Harbour.