Mdina Holidays

Located on a hilltop in the centre of Malta and first inhabited around 700BC, if Mdina’s ancient walls could speak the chances are they’d have plenty to say for themselves. They’d probably be asked to pipe down, though, as the dignified calmness of Mdina’s streets (you’ll find no buses or private vehicles here) is partly the reason for its nickname “The Silent City”.

Visiting Mdina is far from a sedate experience, however. Secrets lurk around every corner of its winding, honey-hued streets, including fascinating spots of historical interest that vividly recall its eventful past. Walk through the city gates, for example, to come face-to-face with Vilhena Palace, which is now the home of the Natural History Museum. Perhaps Mdina’s most iconic building, however, is Saint Paul’s Cathedral. A masterpiece of Baroque architecture that was rebuilt by the Knights of the Order, following an earthquake at the beginning of the 18th Century.

Mdina was once heavily fortified so is surrounded by imposing walls whose purpose was to keep out would-be invaders. Today, they’re an essential part of the city’s character, as well as providing perhaps its biggest tourist attraction. Make your way to the highest point of the city and pull out your camera phone for unforgettable snaps of the surrounding landscape that you’ll remember for years to come.

Malta’s former capital’s got a few aces up its sleeve when it comes to food and drink as well. Of course, there are the traditional Maltese restaurants serving up local fare but more Cosmopolitan cuisine on offer, too. Visiting as a couple? Evenings are particularly romantic here. It’s a time when the sun-soaked splendour of the day makes way for the alluring glow of lamplights that lead the way to a charming bar or dining spot. The perfect setting for an early evening meal accompanied by your favourite tipple.