About this experience
Birgu is a wonderful ancient city that played an important role in Malta's history. We will sail to it by ferry, enjoying the sea breeze and wonderful panoramas. You will walk through the historic center of Collachio and see all its iconic places. And I will tell you about the Great Siege of 1565 and the courage of the local knights under the leadership of Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette.
What to expect
Ferry trip: Grand Harbour and Fort St. Angelo
Our journey will start on the Valletta waterfront. By ferry, we will cross the Grand Harbour and pass by Fort St. Angelo, in the dungeon of which the artist Caravaggio once found himself. I will tell you how he ended up there and how he managed to escape. Then we will stop at the quay in the Gallows Bay, around which are located three cities: Birgu, Bormla and Isla.
Birgu: knights' residences, Inquisitor's Palace and more
We will reach the main entrance of Birgu, examine the powerful defensive fortifications and the protective gate system of Couvre Port. Then we will delve into the old part of the town Collachio, where in the 16th century only the Hospitaller knights had the right to live. I will show you the preserved 'auberges' - residences of the knights of England, France, Provence, and Castile. In addition, you will see: the Inquisitor's Palace, the main square, and the Church of St. Lawrence. Optionally, you can also visit a small museum in the oratory of St. Joseph, where the sword and hat of the island's defender Jean Parisot de Valette are kept.
Organizational details
- Ferry tickets are paid separately: adults - 2.8 euros, children - 0.9 euros
- The Church of St. Lawrence is open for visits until 11:00 and after 17:00, the museum in the oratory of St. Joseph only until 12:00
- After the tour, if you wish, you can stay in Birgu and then independently return to Valletta by ferry
