Malta

Vittoriosa (Birgu)

The oldest of the Three Cities, a maritime gem where the Knights first settled, centred around a fortified peninsula and a lively marina.

Region: South Eastern Region
Country: Malta

What to see

Fort St. Angelo

Iconic fortress guarding Grand Harbour; explore the Knights' quarters, the Admiral's Hall, and panoramic ramparts.

Inquisitor's Palace

The only such palace open to the public worldwide, featuring tribunal rooms, prison cells, and a private chapel.

Vittoriosa Waterfront & Marina

A picturesque quay of converted warehouses now hosting top seafood restaurants and bars overlooking superyachts.

Experiences

Vittoriosa (Birgu) was the Knights' first headquarters (1530–1571) and bore the brunt of the Great Siege of 1565. Its Collachio district retains the auberges (inns) of the Knights' langues, quieter and more atmospheric than Valletta's. The Inquisitor's Palace offers a rare glimpse into the Roman Inquisition's local operations, while the Maritime Museum in the former Royal Naval Bakery charts Malta's naval history. The waterfront has been revitalised into a superyacht marina lined with excellent restaurants serving fresh fish. Fort St. Angelo, the castle at the tip of the peninsula, provides a layered history from medieval castle to British naval HQ, accessible via a short walk or water taxi from Valletta.

Nearby