A Visit to Ancient Malta

Yesterday morning I woke early as we approached the island of Malta.

As we sailed into port, we had a glimpse of this ancient island.

Our tour started in the ancient city of Mdina or Medina. Areas of this city were inhabitated as far back as 8th century bc. As we approached the city, we took in the walls created centuries ago.

There are approximately 250 people who live within the walls of the city.

Some parts are newer than others since it had a lot of damage during bombings in WWII.

Of course, I had to take a picture of Bruce by a canon.

They had horse and buggy rides through the complex.

This is the outside of St. Paul’s Cathedral, originally founded in the 12th century but was damaged during an earthquake in 1693 and rebuilt after that by a Maltese architect named Gafa.

We did go into the Carmelite Priory, which was built in the mid 1600s which was just past the cathedral.

Some of the tight alleys in Mdina.

And then off to the capital, Valletta, which is where the port is located with statues and fountains paving the way.

Walking up to the entrance of another walled city.

We went to some gardens with beautiful views.

More canons and another of Bruce.

Our guide was very enthusiastic about his country but he did talk on and on. So long that we literally had to run through St. John’s Co- Cathedral. This is a very beautiful church.

Famous paintings by Caravaggio including the beheading of St. John.

Our last stop was the Grandmaster’s Palace. It had lots of weapons and armory.

We had walked nearly 6 miles but it felt like 10 since it was at a slow pace dodging in and out of crowds and trying to keep up with our guide.

For anyone traveling by cruise to Malta, you can walk to a lift that will take you up to the gardens. From there you have access to the city of Valletta.

There are shops and restaurants throughout and it’s quite a place to spend a day.

#mdina#medina#malta#valletta#st.paulscathedral#st.johnscocathedral#stjohn#canon#cruising#travel