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Malta - European Getaway

     There is one destination in Europe, sadly enough, that tends not to draw as many vacationers as it might. Malta, a quintessentially Mediterranean destination, contains such a variety of attractions that everywhere you turn there are delightful things to see and do. The two islands of Malta and Gozo contain a greater concentration of impressive architectural and archaeological sites in relation to their size than perhaps anywhere else in the world. These sites remind the visitor of the islands' strategic position in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, which resulted in their repeated occupation by foreign powers over the many centuries. What follows is an irreducible summary of the tourism highlights.

     Valetta, scarcely unchanged architecturally from its appearance in the seventeenth century, was the centre of the Knights of St. John. They made Malta their base for nearly 250 years, from 1530 to 1798. Their sixteenth century church, St.John's Co-Cathedral, is a major site, noteworthy for its splendid Baroque interior, varied frescoes, marble tombstones and chapels filled with treasures.

     The Auberge de Castille, Leon et Portugal, formerly the home of the Knights of the Spanish and Portuguese Langue, currently serves as the office of the Maltese Prime Minister.  Upper Barraca Gardens, once the private garden of the Italian Knights, is a vantage point for superb views of the Grand Harbour and the Cottonera, Auberge de Provence, the site of the National Museum of Archaeology, was constructed in 1574 as a mansion housing the French Knights of Provence.

     The Grandmaster's Palace, a late, sixteenth century building, originates from the earliest years of the Order's stay in Malta. Home of the Maltese Parliament, it should be visited for its impressive Armoury. The Manoel Theatre, (1731), one of the oldest in Europe, is an architectural gem, so be sure to take it in on a guided tour. Auberge d'Italie, the former palace of the Knights of the Italian Langue, dates from 1574.

      A tour of The Hospital of the Order, built in 1532, is a truly unforgettable experience. Here the Knights, as part of their vows, cared for their patients, admitted as patients regardless of their social and economic position within Maltese society. In this building you can view the audio-visual  presentation called  "The Malta Experience". Not far from here is Fort St. Elmo and its military museum, offering a permanent exhibition of displays related to World War Two.

     Added local attractions include the Jesuit Church, called "Chiesa di Gesu", the Opera House, Plazzo Ferreria, Admiralty House and Museum of Fine Arts and numerous other churches. In Valetta a recommended place to stay is the Park Hotel. The hotel's restaurant features first rate buffet breakfasts and its lobby is spacious and comfortable. The hotel is also handy to many nearby restaurants.

     Outside of the capital is delightful Mdina, Malta's capital before the Knights arrived. Hours can be spent strolling along the streets and admiring the historic sites, among the most prominent of them, Palzo Faizon, called Norman House; the Cathedral; and the Archbishop's Palace, dating from 1722. In addition, you won't want to miss Casa Iguanez, Carmelite Church, Bastion Square, the Nunnery of St. Benedict, Palazzo Vihena and St. Paul's Square. Nearby Rabat features the Museum of Roman Antiquities, St. Paul's Church and St. Agatha Catacombs.

     Gozo, reached by scheduled ferry service, is a great place to unwind. The charming island, much more rural and relaxing, is mostly a home to  farmers and fishermen. The principal sights are the cathedral, the archaeological museum in Victoria, the capital; Ggantija Temple Complex near Xaghra village; and the resort town of Marsalforn. Recommended is the Grand Hotel, a lovely property that makes a sojourn in Gozo even more enjoyable. The hotel, overlooking the sea, has a spacious lobby, a fine restaurant and a large swimming pool.  Air Malta is the air carrier that operates to the island from most major cities and capitals in Europe.

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