On the Footsteps of the Knights – Valletta and Vittoriosa

The Knights of St. John left an indelible mark on Malta, shaping its architecture, culture, and history. "On the Footsteps of the Knights – Valletta and Vittoriosa" offers an opportunity to explore this legacy firsthand. Delving into Valletta’s iconic landmarks and crossing the Grand Harbour to uncover Vittoriosa’s historic charm, this guided tour promises an immersive experience that transports visitors back in time. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to uncover Malta’s rich past, this tour provides a chance to step into the world of the Knights and discover their enduring influence on the island nation.

Key Points

• Discover the transformative impact of the Knights of St. John’s arrival in Malta, from their hotel in Il-Birgu to the construction of the city of Valletta.
• Explore the architectural and historical significance of Valletta’s landmarks, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.
• Experience the maritime heritage of the Knights through a ferry or gondola ride across the Grand Harbour, offering unique waterfront perspectives.
• Explore the historic center of Vittoriosa, the "Victorious City," and uncover the enduring legacy of the Knights’ presence in the city.
• Enjoy a guided tour that provides in-depth knowledge and insights into the Knights of the Order of St. John and their lasting impact on Malta’s history and culture.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Historical Significance of the Knights

The arrival of the Knights of the Order of St. John in Malta in 1530 marked a significant chapter in the island’s history.

Settling in Il-Birgu (Vittoriosa), the knights constructed hospitals, auberges, and fortifications to prepare for a potential Ottoman attack. This culminated in the Great Siege of 1565, which resulted in a victory for the knights and the renaming of Il-Birgu to Vittoriosa, meaning "Victorious City."

In 1571, the knights relocated to Valletta, a city they built themselves.

The architecture and urban planning of both Valletta and Vittoriosa still bear the imprint of the knights’ legacy, making them crucial sites for understanding Malta’s rich history.

Exploring Valletta’s Key Landmarks

As visitors embark on this tour, they’ll find that Valletta, a UNESCO Heritage site, offers a wealth of captivating landmarks. From the majestic St. John’s Co-Cathedral to the serene Upper Barrakka Gardens, the city’s historic charm permeates every corner. Guests will marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Grand Master’s Palace, once the seat of the Knights’ government. The tour also unveils hidden gems, like the quaint Strait Street, a former hub of entertainment. Through the guided exploration, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for Valletta’s rich heritage and the enduring legacy of the Knights of the Order of St. John.

Landmark	Significance	Highlight
St. John’s Co-Cathedral	Renowned for its lavish Baroque interior and impressive artworks	Caravaggio’s masterpiece, "The Beheading of St. John the Baptist"
Grand Master’s Palace	Formerly the seat of the Knights’ government, now a museum	Ornate State Apartments and armory collection
Upper Barrakka Gardens	Offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities	Peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city
Strait Street	Once a lively entertainment district for the Knights	Charming, winding streets and historic buildings

Crossing the Grand Harbour

After exploring the historic landmarks of Valletta, visitors embark on an exciting journey across the Grand Harbour.

Weather permitting, the tour includes a ride on a traditional Maltese gondola or ferry, providing a unique perspective of the fortified cities along the waterfront.

Crossing the iconic Grand Harbour, visitors witness the architectural grandeur of the Knight-built cities of Vittoriosa and Senglea.

This nautical interlude offers a refreshing change of pace, allowing travelers to appreciate the strategic importance of the harbor and the Knights’ maritime heritage.

The journey culminates in the arrival at Vittoriosa, setting the stage for the guided exploration of this historic city.

Discovering Vittoriosa’s Historic Center

Disembarking from the ferry, visitors find themselves immersed in the historic center of Vittoriosa. Winding streets and knight-erected buildings transport them back in time. The tour guide leads the group through this charming neighborhood, showcasing its rich history. As they stroll, guests admire the architectural details that have withstood the test of time.

Key Highlights	Description
The Auberge of Castile	Emblematic residence of the Knights from Castile and Leon
Church of St. Lawrence	16th-century church with an impressive façade
Fort St. Angelo	Imposing fortification that played a crucial role in the Great Siege

Vittoriosa’s historic center offers a captivating glimpse into the legacy of the Knights of the Order of St. John, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

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Guided Tour Highlights

The guided tour through Valletta and Vittoriosa begins with an engaging introduction to the history of the Knights of the Order of St. John.

Visitors explore the UNESCO Heritage site of Valletta, visiting key landmarks and hidden gems that showcase the knights’ architectural and cultural legacies.

Then, they cross the Grand Harbour via traditional gondola or ferry to reach Vittoriosa, the "Victorious City" where the knights first settled.

A guided tour of Vittoriosa’s historic center immerses guests in the winding streets and knight-erected buildings that reflect the order’s enduring impact on Malta.

Throughout, the fully licensed tour guide enriches the experience with exceptional knowledge and insight.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour package includes the services of a fully licensed guide, who provides in-depth knowledge and insight throughout the experience.

The guide leads visitors through the historic streets of Valletta and Vittoriosa, sharing the captivating stories of the Knights of the Order of St. John.

The tour also includes a ferry crossing to Vittoriosa, allowing participants to fully enjoy the maritime heritage of the region.

Hotel pick-up is available upon request, ensuring a seamless start to the tour.

Gratuities aren’t included in the tour price, allowing guests the flexibility to reward the guide based on their satisfaction with the experience.

Customer Testimonials and Ratings

Travelers have consistently raved about the exceptional quality of this private group experience, with the tour earning a perfect 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews.

One customer, Mark from Australia, praised the tour guide Nadine for her outstanding knowledge and ability to answer questions, which enhanced the group’s understanding of the Knights and the sites visited.

Reviewers have highlighted the tour’s immersive exploration of Valletta and Vittoriosa, as well as the seamless transition between the two historic cities via traditional gondola or ferry.

Booking and Reservation Details

Booking this private group tour is simple and straightforward.

The tour is priced from €27,811 for up to 2 participants, with a duration of 4.5 hours. It’s offered in English, French, German, and Italian. Guests can reserve now and pay later, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour departs from the City Gate of Valletta or the hotel lobby upon request. Visitors will explore Valletta’s UNESCO-listed sights, cross the Grand Harbour, and discover Vittoriosa’s historic center.

The tour includes a licensed guide and a ferry crossing, with hotel pickup available on request. Gratuities aren’t included in the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Number of Participants Allowed in the Group?

The maximum number of participants allowed in the group is 2. The tour is a private group experience, with a price starting from €27,811 per group of up to 2 participants.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sites. The private group experience allows for flexibility in tailoring the itinerary to the interests and needs of the participants.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for seniors aged 65 and over, as well as for children under 12. Seniors receive a 10% discount, while children are eligible for a 20% reduction in the tour price.

Is the Ferry Ride Included in the Tour Price?

The ferry crossing to Vittoriosa is included in the tour price. The tour package covers the services of a licensed guide and the ferry ride, providing a comprehensive experience for participants.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Specific Time or Is It at a Fixed Schedule?

The tour can be booked for a specific time, as it’s a private group experience. Participants can select their preferred departure time when reserving the tour, which is not on a fixed schedule.

Recap

This guided tour offers an immersive exploration of Malta’s rich history through the lens of the Knights of St. John. Visitors will discover Valletta’s iconic landmarks, cross the Grand Harbour, and explore Vittoriosa’s historic center, uncovering the enduring legacy of the Knights in shaping Malta’s architectural and cultural heritage. It’s an exceptional opportunity to explore Malta’s past and gain a deeper appreciation for its unique identity.

You can check if your dates are available here: