Port
Valletta, Malta
Activity Level
Strenuous
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$94.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
The Knights of St John came to Malta in 1530 and stayed for 268 years, transforming what they called 'merely a rock of soft sandstone' into a flourishing island with mighty defenses and a capital city coveted by the great powers of Europe. They settled in Vittoriosa, across the harbor from Valletta.
Walk through Vittoriosa's narrow streets shaded by age-old buildings, including the early Auberges of the Knights, the Hospital, the Armory, the Treasury and the palaces connected with the Order's administration.
Rejoin your coach for a short drive around the harbor; then, follow your guide on a walking tour of Valletta.
You'll stop at the Barrakka Gardens, located on the highest point on the 16th-century bastion walls built by the Knights of St John. From here, take in the incomparable panoramic view of the Grand Harbour, which was the stage for the Great Siege of 1565, when the Knights bravely fought off the Ottoman invaders.
See the Grand Master's Palace from the outside -- it now houses both the Knight's Armory and the President's Office. Stroll past St John's Co-Cathedral, where many Knights and Grand Masters found their final resting place.
Enjoy some free time to visit (on your own) one of the many sites related to the Knights.
Return to the ship by coach.
Notes:
Wear comfortable, non-skid walking shoes.