A stay in Malta's capital is not complete without visiting St John's Co-Cathedral. Built by the Knight’s Order between 1572 and 1577 it is considered as the most concentrated place of arts and culture in Valletta.
If you’re travelling to Malta and you want to experience the rich history that the islands hold, then staying in Valletta is the perfect place for you. The capital city, which also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage City, is often described as an ‘open-air museum’ and a Gem of Baroque architecture. When staying at AX The Saint John, you’ll be located in the midst of one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe.
With 300 days of sunshine throughout the year, you might feel really unlucky if you encounter a rainy day during your holiday in Malta. As much as you may wish for a sunny mid-winter break – unfortunately Malta does have its occasional rainy days. And when it rains, it pours! But don’t let that worry you. After a wintry day, the sun always comes back with a bang and re-instils the warmth that you’re craving. Here are a few ideas of how you could spend a rainy day in Malta, without having to leave the capital!
Republic Day in Malta is an important event in the island’s history. On the 13th of November 1974, merely 10 years after Malta gained Independence from Great Britain, Queen Elizabeth II ceased to be recognised as the island’s monarch and head of state. After more than 150 years under British rule, this date marks a pivotal moment for Malta as the island welcomed its first President, Sir Anthony Mamo.
The Malta International Christmas Choir Festival is back! Following its successful first edition last year, the festival is returning to the Maltese Islands between the 5th and 9th of December 2019.
The In Guardia Parade is a 16th century historical event that can be traced back to the Knights of St John. The noble order – also called the Knights Hospitaller and the Order of Hospitallers – arrived in Malta in the year 1530 and settled on the islands for 250 years. During this time, the Knights would frequently hold this event, which involved a regular inspection of the fort and garrison by the Gran Bailiff who was in charge of military affairs.
Perched above the Grand Harbour, the Siege Bell Memorial is a simple monument symbolising the plight of the many people who fought and died for Malta during the Second World War.
Despite being a fairly recent addition to Malta’s cultural calendar, the interdisciplinary Three Palaces Festival has taken the islands by storm. The festival has branched out to include other beautiful locations around Malta. The Three Palaces Festival will take place between the 1st and 10th November, so don’t miss out on the spectacular event if you’re staying in Valletta!
