Mdina

Mdina is a fortified medieval town in the Northern part of Malta. It stands on the island’s highest point, far away from the sea.  It is also known by its titles Citta’ Vecchia or Citta’ Notabile. Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city, with its extraordinary mix of medieval and baroque architecture.

The city was founded as Maleth by Phoenician settlers in approximately 700BC. and was later renamed Melite by the Romans. Ancient Melite was originally much larger than present-day Mdina as it was reduced in size during the Arab occupation of Malta. The Arabs also gave the city its present name, which derives from the Arabic word medina. It was the Normans who surrounded the city with its thick defensive fortifications and widened the moat around Mdina. The city remained the capital of Malta throughout the Middle Ages and until the arrival of the Order of St. John in 1530.

Mdina was home then, as it remains now, to Malta’s noble families: some are descendants of the Norman, Sicilian and Spanish overlords who lived in tis city from the 12th century onwards. Many impressive palaces still line its narrow streets and alleys. However, the city has never regained its pre-1530 importance, giving rise to its popular nickname the “Silent City”. Almost no cars are today allowed to enter Mdina, thus providing a relaxing and tranquil atmosphere for its visitors. It is currently on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is now one of Malta’s main tourist attractions.

The Cathedral of St Peter is a majestic building located in the heart of the city. It is an artistic gem from the 17th century whose floor is covered in polychrome marble tombstones of Maltese nobles and important clergymen. The alter painting, The Conversion of St. Paul, is by Mattia Preti. The National Museum of Natural History, which showcases a vast selection of rocks, minerals, mammals and exotic shells, is housed in the elegant  Palazzo de Vilhena at the main entrance to Mdina.  Palazzo Falzon is a very well preserved medieval building dating back to 1495, which houses a large selection of antiques.

A walk through medieval Mdina’s narrow, winding streets can also offer visitors a view of this impressive city from a different perspective. Amazing views from the Belvedere at the far end of the city, show off the beauty of Malta by night.

If you’re looking to explore more of Malta, then head over to the city!