Mdina Malta| History, Things To Do & More

Mdina is one of the most important parts of Malta’s history, it’s the island’s highest point, and is packed full of cultural treasures. Origins of “The Silent City” can be traced back as far as 4000 years and the ancient walled city is a mixture of beautiful Baroque architecture and grand palaces, alongside its medieval foundations and Roman influences.

Mdina has the typical narrow streets of all of the fortified areas of Malta. But the difference with Mdina is that cars are not permitted to enter the city, other than a very limited number of residents. This means that a visit to Mdina is somewhat like taking a step back in time, perhaps almost like walking through a historical film set. It’s a very pretty, well-preserved and clean city.

Things To Do In Mdina

There is a lot to do in Mdina; it’s certainly worth taking a whole day to explore.

Mdina’s centrepiece is the 17^th century, Italian influenced St. Paul’s Cathedral. The ceilings are beautifully painted, and the floors lined with ornate marble tombs of dignitaries and noblemen. St. Paul’s Cathedral is often compared to Valletta’s St. John’s Co-cathedral.

Following on the religious and spiritual discovery, you can visit Carmelite Church and Priory, which is still inhabited by Friars today. It is, like the Cathedral, full of beautiful Baroque art, architecture and sculpture.

For a slightly more gruesome experience that is bound to be popular with kids, the Mdina Dungeons Museum tells tales of crime and punishment and even the history of the plague with a range of models and re-enactments. Pair this with a trip to St. Paul’s catacombs for another underground taste of how it might have been to die in ancient Malta.

For slightly more light-hearted historical experiences, there are several ways to see what life was like in ancient Mdina. Palazzo Falson, a Medieval palace, is in immaculate condition and is filled with antiques.

Domvs Romana shows the astounding remains of a first century Roman villa with traditional mosaics. Whilst the Mdina site of the National Museum of National History showcases an impressive selection of geology, animal anatomy, exotic animals and butterflies. These are just a few ideas of places to see in Mdina, but there are very many more.

Where To Eat – Mdina Restaurants

After a busy day of exploring Mdina you’re bound to have worked up an appetite and certainly have burned enough calories for a treat. Fontanella Tea Garden has stunning views over the city and is famous for its incredibly delicious homemade cakes. You’ll be spoilt for choice, particularly if chocolate cake is your thing!

For a more substantial meal and a taste of fine-dining, visit De Mondion Restaurant and dine al fresco overlooking the silent city. You can often spot fireworks displays whilst you enjoy fine gourmet food and wine the night away with your dining partner. Many people save Mdina for the final day of their trip for the most memorable and romantic experience of their trip to Malta.

Mdina, just like Valletta, demands a visit if you are travelling to Malta – do make sure you tick it off your ‘to do list’. It makes more sense to stay in the capital city of Valletta and then travel to Mdina for a day, as there is more happening in the Capital.  It is after all Valletta Capital of Culture 2018  this year and there is a cultural program to suit all kind of tastes including dance, exhibition, music, art, performance, design and much more!

If you are staying at Casa Ellul and need to travel to Mdina from Valletta, you can choose a number of ways to travel. Hire a car, take the bus and a very inexpensive day ticket or treat yourself to a taxi. The journey is around 13km, which takes about 25 minutes. Just speak to our Front Office Manager and he will be more than happy to sort it out for you!