Attractions of Malta Island

Source: www.top10.travel

1. Azure Window. This is one of the most frequently photographed attractions in Malta, located on the island of Gozo. The arch of massive rock was created by the sea waves and looks very majestic and beautiful. You can admire the Azure Window and up close by swimming between the pillars of the arch by boat. Experienced swimmers can also cross the Azure Window by swimming.

2. St. Anthony's Botanical Garden. This is a real oasis in which not only many tourists but also the residents of Malta love to relax. In the Botanical Garden of St. Anthony you can find many exotic plants, beautiful flowers and statues. The garden is open to anyone who wants to walk along its shady pathways. The oranges harvested here are mostly distributed to guests as Christmas gifts.

3. Mdina. Today, Mdina has become a real museum city, which has preserved its medieval appearance. It was once the capital of Malta and its former grandeur is visible in its streets, squares and embankments. There's plenty attractions in Mdina, with the famous and grim Museum of Torture and the Cathedral to name but a few.

4. The viewpoint of the Upper Barracks Gardens. The Upper Barracks Gardens is the most visited attraction in Valletta. In the gardens themselves tourists are first to visit the observation deck. In addition to the exotic trees and flowers, which grow in tiers, in the garden you can see the old cannons and all kinds of statues. The observation deck is famous for its wonderful view to the bay and the three cities of Malta.

5. Ghar Dalam Cave. First of all this cave attracts archeologists and historians. Here were found numerous bones of prehistoric animals and traces of ancient people who lived here more than 7.4 thousand years ago. Tourists are allowed only on the first few levels, so as not to damage the valuable exhibits. Also, there is a museum in the Ghar Dalam Cave.

6. Basilica of the Virgin Mary. Ta-Pinu - the place for the construction of this basilica was chosen not at all by chance. Here one of the inhabitants of the island of Gozo heard the voice of Our Lady, and then various miracles happened on this plase. The basilica is very beautiful, despite its large size it is visually light and very bright. The miraculous image of the Virgin Mary is kept here.

7. Lascaris Bunker. This historical attraction is located in the town of Valleta, under the bastions of the same name. On the roof of the bunker are Upper Gardens of Barracca. Tunnels in the thickness of the rock were cut in the Middle Ages, but were actively used during World War II, becoming the headquarters of General Dwight Eisenhower.

8. The megalithic temple complex of Mnajdra. Of course, megalithic structures cannot boast of the grace and refinement of modern or medieval structures. But there is something unimaginably majestic and powerful in their rough forms. Perhaps it is the patina of centuries and millennia that gives the megalithic temple complex of Mnajdra such a unique look. The temples are quite decently preserved.

9. Casa Rossa Piccola. One of Malta's oldest palaces. Or rather, not the oldest, but the best preserved. Throughout its history, it has never been radically rebuilt or altered in its historical appearance. Casa Rossa Piccola is still home to an aristocratic family, and thousands of tourists come to see what a real palace with exquisite decoration looks like.

10. Classic Cars Museum. What could be more beautiful than a classic car with its elegant exterior and special charm! The modern, powerful Jeeps are no match for such vintage cars. The Classic Cars Museum in Malta has an intriguing and eye-catching collection. The museum is private and entrance costs €7 per adult.

11. Fort Sant'Angelo. This really is an impregnable fortress that guarded Malta back in the 11th century. Strong, brutal, rugged but attractive in its own way, Fort Sant'Angelo is perfectly preserved and attracts millions of tourists. Built so many centuries ago, the fort withstood many direct blows during the Second World War, again fulfilling its primary function.

12. Lower Baracca Gardens. Lower Baracca Gardens are located in the city of Valletta, at the very tip of the peninsula. It's much quieter and quieter than the Upper Gardens, where there are more tourists and locals. The atmosphere is also perfect for meditating, reflecting about life and quietly admiring the seascape.

13. St Paul's Cathedral (Mdina). This Catholic cathedral cannot possibly compare in size and grandeur to the other, more famous ones. But it is the main temple of the ancient city of Mdina, preserving its centuries-old frescoes and notable works of art. In St Paul's Cathedral you can not only pray, but also admire the many pieces of decoration.

14. Mjarre. This relatively small village in north-west Malta is famous for its vineyards and farms. It attracts visitors not only to its pastoral countryside and tasty local produce, but also to its two prehistoric sites, the megalithic temple complex and Skroba, a Neolithic complex with numerous archaeological finds.

15. The Armstrong cannon. This artillery cannon may well rival the famous Tsar Cannon in size and power. What's to say! Unlike its "Moscow counterpart" the Armstrong cannon in Valletta really shoots. This huge gun weighs more than 90 tons and can hit at a distance of 6.5 kilometres. Impressive, isn't it?

16. Golden Bay Beach. There are very few pebble beaches in Malta. In general, the beaches of this island country cannot be compared to the vast expanses of, for example, the Dominican Republic. However, Malta's beaches are all very beautiful, each in their own way, and are usually within the city area. Golden Bay Beach is one of Malta's most beautiful sandy beaches, charming and well equipped.

17. Spinola Bay. This is the jewel of central Malta and one of the most beautiful parts of the island. There are a huge number of ducks here that are used to feeding from the hands of tourists. Spinola Bay is also anchorage, so one can come here and admire the snow-white beauties. And the sea views are spectacular.

18. The Hypogeum of Hal-Saflieni. Another megalithic structure for which Malta is so famous. However, this temple is unique because it is the oldest in the world. Imagine that Hipogeum Hal-Saflieni was built more than 6 thousand years ago and at the same time it is well preserved. Now, no more than 80 tourists a day are allowed here, so sign up for a tour in advance!

19. The Blue Grotto. Like the Blue Window, the Blue Grotto is a rock formation created by the waves of the sea over the years. It is enclosed, secluded, very romantic and majestic. You can go down to the Blue Grotto itself and take a boat ride through its waters only when the weather is fine, otherwise there is a great risk of crashing on the rugged rocks.

20. The Grandmaster's Palace. Thinking that a palace by that name is just another historical monument? Well, don't worry, the Grandmaster's Palace is still used as the official residence of the President of Malta and the country's Parliament. Large, luxurious and as befitting a residence for those in power, the palace is ready to receive tourists on days when official events are not taking place.