The Three Cities present fascinating insights into Malta and its long-standing history. Untouched and unspoilt, these are an episode of the authentic life in Malta as well as a glance into the country's maritime fortunes. The Three Cities, namely Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, were among the first settlements in the present-day Grand Harbour. These have given shelter to almost everyone settled on the island and are therefore considered the Cradle of Maltese history. Remarkably, being the earliest home to the Knights of St. John, the palaces, churches, forts, & ramparts in these cities are way older than those in Valletta. Here is a comprehensive guide to visiting the Three Cities in Malta from the capital of Valletta for you!
Where are the Three Cities?
On gazing over the Grand Harbor from the stunning Upper Barrakka Gardens, you will spot three port vicinities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, lying alongside the well-known Fort St. Angelo. These vicinities are collectively referred to as The Three Cities of Malta, areas packed with deep-rooted history and spectacular cultural sites. Right across the Grand harbor, Vittoriosa and Senglea are positioned as two parallel peninsulas facing the capital Valletta, whereas Cospicua is situated to the south of these two. The local communities in these cities celebrate auspicious days and festivals like no other place in the Maltese archipelago. Notably, the most mesmerizing events include the Easter processions when the statues of the Risen Christ are ferried through crowded streets.
How to Reach the Three Cities Malta?
One of the must-visits while in Malta is the Three Cities. These cities are comparably small and clumped together, making it very convenient for visitors to explore them all in a one day trip. To flock to these cities from Valletta, you will have to go to the Upper Barrakka Gardens where you can have scenic views of the Grand Harbor and the far lying Three Cities. Here, you will take the lift, down to the edge of the harbor. Now, you will take the ferry to reach the Three Cities, which takes just 10 minutes.
The Ferry service between Valletta and the Three Cities is a splendid way to explore the area nearby. Notably, the ferry operates from early in the morning till late evening (in the peak season in the summer season, it operates even till midnight). A day-return ferry ticket for an adult costs EUR 2.80 per person. Other than a ferry, you can also opt for a water taxi. It will also cost around 2 Euros for a shared boat transfer between Valletta and the Three Cities across the waters. Just keep in mind that you may need to wait for the departure until these local boats get filled with passengers. Finally, as you arrive on the other side of the harbor, you can stroll through the beautiful streets of the Three Cities while uncovering their significant history.
For many people, the most convenient approach to reach the Three Cities is by online booking of Malta's Three Cities tour, which covers the expenses of a tour guide and a ferry cruise across the harbor aboard a Dgħajsa. It costs around EUR 35 per person.
What to do and What to See in the Three Cities?
There are many things to do and see in this Trio of Cities of Malta - Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua, as these are idyllic places to capture your imagination. Let us dive deeper!
I. Vittoriosa
The first harbor inlet you will come across traveling from Valletta is usually at the enchanting & guarded city of Vittoriosa (Birgu). It is the oldest & probably the most beautiful city of the trio. Vittoriosa was the foremost administrative seat of the Order of St. John in 1530 as soon as they came to settle in Malta. This city is set on a narrow peninsular stretch across the Grand Harbour and was primitively called Birgu. It was named again after the Great Siege of 1565 as Vittoriosa, which means victorious, to honor the role played by the city in the defense of Malta. You will recognize arriving at the city from its giant yacht marina that encompasses some very large yachts. Once reached, you can explore the narrow streets, click some photos, and adore the historic feel of the city. Here are some leading attractions in Vittoriosa city.1. Fort St. Angelo
Once in Vittoriosa, you can visit Fort St. Angelo, which sits on the edge of Vittoriosa’s peninsula and is easily recognizable even from the sea. It is a crown jewel in the military heritage of Malta that played a crucial role in the defense of the Grand Harbour during the Great Siege in 1565. Fort St Angelo stands as a guard over the Grand Harbour and was the protector of the island throughout history. It is one of the most iconic forts in Malta that was once home to the Grand Master of the Order of St John. From the lofty bastions & city walls of this fort, you can enjoy some of the best & views of the Grand Harbour and Valletta. Also, there is a small prison beneath the fort, where the world-famous artist Caravaggio was imprisoned in the early 17th century before he managed to flee.
2. Malta Maritime Museum
On the waterfront of Vittoriosa lies the Malta Maritime Museum which is the largest museum on the island. Embracing the 7,000-year great maritime history of Malta, it is a great attraction for history buffs. The museum features a collection of unique naval artifacts, including the giant four-ton Roman anchor of the Knights, various primitive Maltese boats, and weapons. It tells a lot about remarkable historical events like the Great Siege of Malta and Malta's role in the II World War.
3. St. Lawrence's Church
St. Lawrence Church is among the most primeval & still-sustained churches in Malta. It is a 17th-century church located near the small harbor boat wharf, designed by Lorenzo Gafa in Roman-baroque style. The church served the Order of St. John up until St. John’s Co-Cathedral was inaugurated in 1577 in Valletta. Here, the visitors will see the engrossing interior, featuring polychromatic paintings, statues, a massive Latin cross, and a little but attractive museum. When visiting the city in August, visitors must not miss the annual feast of St. Lawrence, which is among the most vibrant religious feasts in Malta.
4. Inquisitor's Palace
Another must-visit site in Vittoriosa is the Inquisitor’s Palace (also known as Sacred Palace), a historical building where the Maltese inquisition began to sprout, during the 16th - 18th century. It was initially constructed as a courthouse in the 1530s, and the palace was the seat of the Inquisitors for more than 200 years. You can tour its meticulously restored rooms and original cells with some of them featuring the carvings by the prisoners. Also, it houses the Museum of Ethnography, which is consecrated to Maltese religion & culture.
5. Victory Square
Victory Square (Misrah ir-Rebha) is the main square in Vittoriosa, where you will see the statue of St Lawrence - the Patron Saint of Vittoriosa established in 1880. Also, it has some small cafes around that are popular among locals and tourists.
II. Senglea
Senglea is the second city among the Three Cities in Malta. It is a small guarded city located on a peninsula parallel to Vittoriosa on its west side. There is a pedestrian bridge that links Senglea to its larger neighbors and the two majestic forts - Fort St Angelo & Fort St Michael, standing as guards on either side of the city. Due to the shield of these forts, Senglea remained considerably unharmed from the Great Siege. Originally known as L’Isla, i.e., ‘the island’, this city was renamed Senglea as a tribute to Grand Master Claude de la Senglea, who guarded it in 1551. Senglea is also commonly called Citta’ Invicta, meaning the invincible city. Presently, it is a relatively smaller neighborhood with lesser points of interest. Also, there are diverse cafes and bars set in this city, where you can take a break & unwind yourself. Here are the few noteworthy attractions in the city:6. Safe Haven Gardens
7. Our Lady of Victories Parish Church
Another place to visit in Senglea is the Our Lady of Victories Parish Church. Visitors must not get confused with the Our Lady of Victories Church in Valletta and this parish church in Senglea that was previously called Basilica of Our Lady of Victories. It was constructed after the Great Siege and is devoted to the motherhood of the Virgin Mary. It is renowned for its exquisite interiors, featuring valuable artworks, including an esteemed wooden statue of the Virgin Mary.
III. Cospicua
Cospicua is the last in the Three Cities group in Malta. It is located between Senglea and Vittoriosa and is the biggest of all three cities. This city was originally called Bormia and was renamed Cospicua (inspired by the word conspicuous) by the Knights as a tribute to the brave people who colonized it during the Great Siege. Much of Cospicua was destroyed in various battles over the years of Malta’s turbulent history. However, the city has been rebuilt and visitors can explore its picturesque streets featuring iconic Maltese balconies and flecked with historical and cultural sites. It is recommended to walk down these beautiful streets to enjoy the authentic Maltese life.The leading attractions in Cospicua city are:8. The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
It is a splendid church alongside a lovely walking area environed by greenery. Many people regard the Immaculate Conception Church as a miraculous site, as it sustained even after WWII - a war that demolished most of the surrounding city area. Today, it embraces magnificent artworks, including a remarkable painting of The Madonna and Child by Italian painter Polidoro Veneziano, positioned above the high altar.
9. Defence Fortifications
Visitors can explore the defense fortification landmarks on the edge of the city in two sets - the Firenzuola Fortifications that were constructed built around the Three Cities of Malta in 1638 and the more confining Cottonera Lines, also called Valperga lines which surround Cospicua and Vittoriosa and were established in 1670 by the Knights of Malta. These guarding walls are a fundamental part of Maltese history.
10. Bir Mula Heritage Museum
Bir Mula Heritage is a private museum nestled in a historical house in Cospicua. It is the witness of the development of houses in Malta throughout the ages and is an exhibit of an Arab-era farmhouse that developed into a 17th-century palazzo.
Besides, you can have a nice stroll along the beautiful harborside promenade from Cospicua to Senglea.
Tips for Traveling to The Three Cities
- The ideal way to explore the Three Cities is via walking, as some streets are complex & off-beaten, therefore appropriate for pedestrians.
- Visitors can also take the bus from Valletta to the Three Cities from the main bus station in Valletta with lines 1, 2, & 4 instead of the waterway, but the ferry/water taxi option is convenient, cheap, and more enjoyable.
- If you do not want to look after everything on your own & budget is not the issue, you can opt for the guided tour of Three Cities trip with a harbor cruise. It is considered worth the money as some of the tourist attractions are demanding to find on your own.
- You can buy a Combined Ticket that is economical as it covers the admission to Fort St. Angelo, Maritime Museum, and Inquisitor Museum for around EUR 13.
The Three Cities in Malta offer a marvelous opportunity for travelers to experience off-beat destinations, embracing the rich culture and an authentic Maltese character. The cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua are visually attractive, and their historical importance makes them idyllic places to dive deeper into Maltese culture. Whenever you will be planning a trip to the Maltese archipelago, refer to this guide to the Three Cities of Malta for planning your itinerary for these ancient destinations!