Important cities of Malta

Malta is an old country with numerous famous old cities and towns including Mdina, Rabat, Sliema, all having a lively metropolitan touch with a medieval essence. The cities of Malta culturally and architecturally display a marvel hidden underneath the pulsating European lifestyle and traditions.

1: Mdina
This medieval town, erstwhile capital of the nation, is situated in the centre of the island commanding a magnificent view of the entire island. This tiny town is also known as the "Silent City" due the all-prevailing silence in the area despite its full inhabitation. Untouched by modernity, Mdina is a charming little town taking you back in history. The town is held to be initially populated by the Phoenicians around 1000 BC. It later became home to the government under the Romans, when the Governor chose to build his Palace here. The present name of the town seems to have been derived from the Saracens who came to Malta around 870 AD. The city was surrounded with thicker walls that separated it from its nearest town of Rabat.

2: Rabat

Rabat is a scenic and pleasant town of Malta, surrounded on all sides by open and fertile countryside. Originally an agricultural town, the present gentle and charming ambiance is probably owing to the lack of intensive building developments. A road separates this town from the tiny and charming town of Mdina and along the perimeter of this road is located the lovely Roman Villa. This is the site where significant Roman remains were discovered in late nineteenth century. The mosaic floor here is the most attractive feature, and the present building has been constructed around it to help preserve it. Other fascinating artifacts like ceramics and busts of Tiberius can also be seen here.

3: Sliema

Sliema is a lively and busy town of Malta with a metropolitan feel. It is thriving with restaurants, cafes, the largest group of hotels in Malta, shops like The Plaza Shopping Centre that is the largest on the island. There are also a number of nightspots here, including the Casino. Sliema has a host of popular beaches and beach clubs with water sport facilities. The best feature is of the town is the wide promenade running along the shoreline for almost 3Km. The town keeps lively throughout the year with a myriad of activities and facilities that generate this hustle and bustle.

4: St Julians'

Originally a tiny fishing village, this small town is built around a small bay. Restoration efforts have helped retain most of the original charm of the town. Spinola Palace is a charming structure overlooking the bay and it dates back to 1688. Today, St Julians is home to a variety of good restaurants, like the San Giuliano and Barracuda, overlooking the Bay, popular with locals and visitors alike. It gets quite busy over the weekends and during the peak tourism season. However, public transport is easily and frequently available. Paceville and St George's Bay are located nearby and are within a comfortable walking distance.