Mdina-The Silent City
Mdina-The Silent City
Malta - mdina flagThe ancient town of Mdina in Malta is situated in the center of the island and is also a fascinating destination to visit. The city extends back over 3000 years and was the initial capital of Malta until 1568, once the Knights of St. John built Valletta after the Great Siege of 1565.
Mdina - Strolling across the city is much like having a take a step back with time. It's mediaeval character really concerns life within it's fortifications, narrow alleyways, palaces and churches and gives the town a nearly mystical atmosphere. It appears like nothing here has changed in centuries that is probably why it's a extremely popular tourist destination.
Entrance towards the city is via it's magnificent gateway which was built in 1724 by Grand Master De Vilhena. In the city there are lots of attractions important to note nevertheless the first thing to do the following is to wander around it's narrow streets and alleyways and obtain a real feel of the items this unique city is about.
images of mdina
mdina toursMdina has some very notable attractions within it's walls. One that one thinks of is the St. Paul's Cathedral. The cathedral was built following a terrible earthquake in 1693. Like all Maltese cathedrals the exact same thing is definitely an impressive structure. The cathedral's floor is inlaid with detailed marble gravestones which belong to some of the Maltese aristocracy plus a stunning wallpainting depicting the shipwreck of St. Paul on Malta. Aslo make sure you view the adjoining cathedral museum, that also houses the archive of the inquisition in Malta, which unfortunetly isn't on public display.
Just about the most impressive buildings in Mdina will be the Palazzo Falson also known as the Norman House, which was built around 1495 through the Argonese Vice-Admiral Falson. Many items displayed at home go back hundreds of years, including 17th century paintings by Mattia Preti, Maltese, Continental and British silver, an imposing armoury containing swords, pistols, guns and polearms, a collection of jewellery from various periods and complicated oriental rugs.
The city also houses a Museum of Natural History within the former Magisterial Palace that was built-in 1730 as well as the Mdina Dungeons located under the palace with secret underground passages, chambers and cells. While strolling around Mdina be sure to visit the newly restored gardens all around the city as well as the view from the bastions, in which you will get a birds eye take a look at the island.