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The Magisterial Palace, built between 1571 and 1574, is today the President's office and seat of the Maltese Parliament. The palace is a treasure trove of art. In the Tapestry Chamber hangs a unique collection of Gobelin Tapestries. Frescoes depicting the Great Siege of 1565 by Perez d'Aleccio adorn the Hall of St Michael and St George - formerly the Order's supreme council hall. |
The decorations on the ceilings of the corridors are by Nicolo' Nasini. Many of the State Apartments are embellished with friezes describing episodes of the Order's history. The palace itself was designed by the Maltese architect, Girolamo Cassar, who was responsible for most of Valletta's main buildings, including the Co-Cathedral of St John. Within the palace you can also visit the Armoury.
Hours of Admission: WINTER (October 1 - June 15) - Monday to Saturday from 08:15 - 17:00; Sunday from 08:15 - 16:15. SUMMER (June 16 - September 30) - Monday to Sunday from 07:45 - 14:00. The state museums and archaeological sites {with the exception of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum} are open free of charge to Maltese Citizens ONLY, on every last Sunday of the month.
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The Armoury Two halls in the Palace where arms and armour of various periods and descriptions are displayed. Converted from a smaller house, the Palace was designed by Gerolimo Cassar in 1571. From the time of its completion until the end of the Order of St. Johns reign in Malta (1798) the palace was used by all the Grand Masters. In 1800 it became the official residence of British Governors. The Palace contains some fine examples of medieval Armour and weapons used by the Knights of St. John and their adversaries. |
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The Palace is now the Presidential Office and Malta's Parliament House. Within the Palace, whose grand rooms are used for state occasions, is a wealth of splendour.
