Thursday, June 9, 2011

Adventure Travel : The Streets of Valletta, Malta

The walled city of Valletta, the capital of Malta, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, has many buildings dating from the 16th century. Come on a walk with us though the streets of Valletta.
We arrived in Valletta on the ferry from Sliema, a ten minute crossing which cost 1.5 Euro per person for a single ticket. This is probably the most scenic way to approach Valletta.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
View of Valletta from the Sliema ferry
It’s a quite a steep climb from the ferry up to the main street in Valletta, which was adorned with suspended stars during our visit.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
Stars in the streets of Valletta
I liked the water fountain decorated with a horse standing on his back legs. It was a bit gusty to sit in the café there though.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
One of the water fountains in Cathedral Square
St John’s Co-Cathedral was constructed in the 16th century by the Knights of Malta.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta

There are three dials on one of the towers, one for the time of day, one for the day of the week and one for the date.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
Three dials on Valletta Cathedral
We continued down the slope to the southern side of Valletta where there were many examples of traditional style architecture.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta

Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
One of the streets was decorated with red garlands.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
Red garlands on the streets of Valletta
There are religious sculptures on many street corners.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
Religious sculpture in Valletta
There is a pavement fountain in front of the Grand Master’s Palace, the Maltese seat of government.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
Grand Master’s Palace in Vallletta
The Armoury is just behind the palace.
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
Peaceful courtyard at the entrance to the Armoury in Valletta
Walking Through the Streets of Valletta, Malta
View toward Grand Harbour in Valletta

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