What historical sights to visit in Malta: the most popular locations

The Maltese Islands (Malta, Gozo and Comino), surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean south of Sicily, have a fascinating heritage. The islands are proud of their ancient history with ruins of the oldest buildings.

The weather in Malta is ideal for a comfortable vacation in spring and fall. And during the hot summer months, street concerts and various religious events come to life there. The Planets World portal told you about the places that you should definitely visit when traveling to the islands.

Valletta: the elegant capital of Malta

Start your tour of Valletta with St. John's Cathedral. This 16th-century church was built by different orders of knights originating from different countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. Visitors admire the impressive interior and its rich gilded decor.

Next, visit the huge Grand Master's Palace, once the residence of the Knights of Malta. This palace has magnificent paintings that tell the story of the Knights' military victories.

Don't forget to see the Upper Barracca Gardens, with its Romanesque arch styles and magnificent views of Valletta Harbor. If time permits, the Museum of Archaeology is worth a visit to see artifacts from Malta's oldest sites, dating back 5000 years.

The idyllic island of Gozo

The island has a fortified medieval city - Victoria; a bustling seaside resort - Marsalforn; and the most important archaeological complex of the Maltese Islands - the Ggantija Temples, which date back to about 3500 BC.

Medieval hill of the city of Mdina, Malta

Tourists must pass through the dramatic Main Gate to feel as if they are stepping back in time. Within the vast city, the ancient ramparts form a wonderful world of cordless pedestrian streets and beautiful old sandstone buildings. The most important of these is St. Paul's Cathedral, a baroque building designed by the Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafi.

Tourists should visit the grand historical palaces. The Santa Sofia Palace (Villeguignon Street near Bastion Square) is the best preserved medieval building in Mdina. The Vilhena Palace (St. Publius Square) is a magnificent landmark that houses the Museum of Natural History of Malta with an outstanding collection of geological exhibits, as well as fossils, insects and animals.

Palazzo Falson (Villegainion Street) is a 13th-century palace that belonged to a noble family in Malta. Now a museum, Palazzo Falson is exquisitely decorated in the original style and has a fine collection of art and antiquities.