If you are looking to steer clear of crowded attractions, Birgu is one of the best places to visit. The old fortified city is situated on the Grand Harbour in Malta and it may not be as popular as Valetta and Mdina. However, traveling to Birgu can be a wonderful experience if you want to travel back in time and explore quiet alleys. In the 16th century, it was the capital of Malta and is one of the most historic and oldest cities on the island.
Today, Birgu is renowned for its gorgeous waterfront views, beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. Some of the best things you can do here are:
Stroll around Fort St. Angelo
The star attraction of Birgu is Fort St. Angelo, which is at the center of Grand Harbour, and is renowned for the role it played in 1565 in the Great Siege of Malta and also in World War II. Originally, the bastioned fort had been a medieval castle, but was rebuilt in the 1500s. If you want to explore Maltese history, you will find this to be the perfect place. Plus, it also offers great views of the surrounding towns and the harbor.
Check out the Inquisitor’s Palace
This is another must-see attraction in Birgu, which had originally been constructed for serving as the Civil Law Courts of the Order of St John. It became a prison complex in the 16th century as well as the inquisitor’s private residence. It functioned as a military hospital during British rule. You can learn about the history of the Roman Inquisition and the Inquisitor’s Palace is also the location of the National Museum of Ethnography.
View the old gates
Since Birgu is a fortified city, it has a rock-hewn ditch and large defensive walls surrounding it. The former was recently turned into a garden. There had originally been four gates, dating back to the 18th century, but there are only three surviving now. The Gate of Provence, the Advanced Gate and the Couvre Porte Gate have interesting Latin inscriptions and engravings.
Explore the churches
There are a number of churches in Birgu, with each boasting its own charm and story. One of the oldest and largest churches in Malta is St. Lawrence Church and it has paintings from various eras on display. The Oratory of the Holy Cross and the Oratory of St. Joseph are also close to it. Annunciation Church, St. Philip Church and Church of St. Anne are others that you can check out.
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