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The oldest city on the island of Malta, going back to pre-historic times, the word Mdina derives from the Arabic word ‘medina’ which means ‘walled city’.

Mdina

Mdina is the old capital city of Malta. It lies in the center of the island and is a typical medieval fortified city. The “Silent City” as it is also known, commands an imposing view of the island and although it’s fully inhabited, quietness reigns supreme. The history of Mdina is as old and as chequered as the history of Malta itself. Its origin can be traced back more than 5,000 years. There was certainly a Bronze Age village on this site. It is one of the few remaining Renaissance fortified cities in Europe and in may ways, unique.

Ta’Qali

The former World War II military aerodrome was converted into a local hand-crafts centre. It’s the ideal place to buy ceramics, jewellery and knitwear, pottery and see glass blowing and moulding as well as other craftspeople at work.  Here one can buy something completely unique and original to take home.  Within the craft centre one can find the Aviation Museum displaying aircrafts.

San Anton Gardens

Probably the best known of the Islands’ gardens, San Anton gardens was laid out by Grand Master Antoine de Paule as grounds to his summer residence, San Anton Palace.

From 1802 until 1964, San Anton Palace was the official residence of the British Governor, after which it remained a state building and is now the residence of the Maltese President. Various heads of state have visited the gardens over the years and numerous plaques mark their ceremonial tree planting.

The garden is a botanical delight with mature trees, old stone urns, fountains, ponds and formal flower beds. The garden is formal with rustic touches and holds a wide variety of plants and flowers, such as Jacaranda trees, Norfolk Pines, Bougainvillea and roses.

Nowadays, the garden is the Annual Horticultural Show venue and during summer, the spacious central court becomes an open-air theatre for drama and musical performances.