Discover the Restored Grandeur of Valletta’s Grand Master’s Palace

Discover the Restored Grandeur of Valletta’s Grand Master’s Palace

In the heart of St George’s Square, Valletta, a timeless symbol of Malta’s rich and layered history stands renewed and resplendent: the Grand Master’s Palace. Following an extensive restoration project, this architectural and cultural masterpiece once again opens its doors—this time with over 85% of its footprint accessible to the public for the first time in centuries.

A Legacy of Power and Prestige

Originally constructed by the Knights of St John shortly after their legendary victory in the Great Siege of 1565, the Grand Master’s Palace was the first major building in the new capital city. Over the centuries, it evolved with the times—serving as the Governor’s Palace during British rule and later becoming home to Malta’s first constitutional parliament in 1921.

Today, it is still a functioning seat of authority, housing the Office of the President of Malta, yet now it also welcomes history lovers, art enthusiasts, and curious travelers from around the world.

Inside the Palace: A Walk Through Time

Step beyond the grand façade and enter a world of knightly valor and baroque splendor. The restored State Rooms are a highlight, featuring:

• The Throne Room, once used for ceremonial occasions.

• The elegant Ambassadors’ Room, lined with rich artworks.

• The intimate Grand Master’s Study/Sitting Room.

• The Pages’ Room, echoing the daily rhythm of palace life.

Another rediscovered gem is the Uccelliera, a rare architectural feature believed to be a type of aviary or garden structure. Add to that the restored Piano Nobile corridors, and visitors are treated to an immersive journey through the palace’s 450-year history.

Art and Illusion

The Palace is more than stone walls and stately halls—it is a canvas of Maltese identity. Among its prized treasures is a powerful series of paintings by Matteo Perez d’Aleccio, vividly narrating the Great Siege of 1565—a defining moment in Malta’s past.

Don't forget to look up: the late 18th-century Baroque illusionistic ceiling paintings dazzle with their intricate detail and grandeur, reflecting the noble aspirations of the Grand Masters who sought to emulate the great courts of Europe.

The Historic Armoury Returns

Perhaps most thrilling for history buffs is the reinstated Armoury, now back in its original hall—formerly the Parliament Chamber. This collection is one of the finest in the world, showcasing:

• Armour suits worn by Grand Masters like Jean de Valette and Alof de Wignacourt.

• Ottoman weapons and armour, chronicling the island’s military past.

• An imposing display of artillery, echoing Malta’s role as a bastion of Christianity against Ottoman expansion.

Malta’s Most Visited Heritage Site

It’s no surprise that the Grand Master’s Palace holds the crown as Heritage Malta’s most visited site, drawing around 300,000 visitors each year. Whether you’re a local rediscovering your roots or a visitor seeking the soul of Malta, the Palace offers a rare chance to witness living history.

A Restoration Worth Celebrating

This ambitious restoration—part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)—is more than a facelift. It’s a profound act of preservation, ensuring that the stories, art, and architecture of this iconic building endure for generations to come.