About Valletta
Valletta was built by the Knights of Malta. Construction started in 1566 and Valletta became Malta’s capital in 1571.
The city is named after Grand Master Jean de la Valette who wanted to create “a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen” (but it is a city that welcomes everyone!) La Valette unfortunately never saw his dream completed as he died in 1568.
Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It showcases 450 years of history, where different eras and cultures come together in one place. The city has 320 monuments making it resemble an open-air museum.
In 2018 Valletta was the European Capital of Culture.
Valletta is the smallest European capital both in population and size and its surface area is less than 1 square kilometre.
Valletta is situated on a peninsula that has the Grand Harbour on one side and Marsamxett Harbour on the other, making it surrounded by water on three sides and giving it spectacular views.
Valletta also boasts a number of beautiful public gardens.
Valletta is officially the capital city in Europe with the most sun – Malta boasts 300 days of sunshine per year!
Valletta feels like a film set and it has in fact featured in many movies.
Valletta is home to the Manoel Theatre – the third oldest working theatre in Europe, built in 1731.
Valletta has seen it all, from the Ottomans to French blockades, to being heavily bombed in World War II, to Independence celebrations and celebrations on Malta’s entry to the EU.
Come and discover this wonderful city!