EXPLORING HISTORIC BIRGU, MALTA

Situated on Malta's Grand Harbor, the city of Birgu (also known as Vittoriosa) is  full of historic charm.   Many visitors forgo visiting Birgu or it's sister city Senglea.  

I have stayed in both cities and prefer them to places like Valletta which are crowded with tourists from cruise ships throughout the day.  Birgu offers stunning views of the harbor and beautiful buildings steeped in history.

If you are interested in lodging in Birgu and Senglea, you can check out information here:

SENGLEA LODGING

BIRGU LODGING

You will find suggestions below of things to see and do in Birgu.

VISIT FORT ST ANGELO  

The beautiful apartment we rented in Birgu was located next to Fort St Angelo and across the harbor from Valletta.  The  fort was originally a medieval castle that was rebuilt by the Order of St John as a bastioned fort called Fort Saint Angelo between the 1530s and the 1560s, and it is best known for its role as the Order's headquarters during the Great Siege of Malta of 1565.  

Fort St Angeleo is also one of many location where filming for Game of Thrones took place.  Its underground tunnels were used as the Red Keep Dungeon, where Arya chases a cat on assignment from Syrio Forel and overhears a key conversation.

SEE THE OLD GATES

Explore the perimeter of the city.  Since Birgu is a fortified city, it is surrounded by huge defensive walls.  Of the four original gates, three are still standing.  

WALK ALONG THE WATERFRONT

We spent most of our time in Birgu on the waterfront.  The views of the harbor are stunning. 

The inlet between Birgu and Senglea is filled with luxury yachts along side traditional boats.  This is also where you catch the water taxi to Valletta.

The city you see across the harbor is Senglea.

On the other side of the city is another waterway that looks across to Kalkara.

VISIT SOME OF THE CHURCHES

There are over 350 churches in Malta so it's no surprise there Birgu has it's share of beautiful churches.  Like many European churches, the architecture is stunning.  As with many churches, some are open to the public and some are not.  Keep in mind that many European churches require modest attire.

The  church of St Lawrence (pictured above) is an important historical building, having been the Conventual church of the Knights of St John for over 40 years back in the 16th century. It was badly damaged during World War II and was later re-built during 195o's. 

ENJOY THE LOCAL QUISINE 

Birgu has some amazing restaurants.  Al fresco dining is a great option, with outdoor cafés and restaurants serving delicious dishes all day long.

VISIT THE MARITIME MUSEUM

Housed within the Old Naval bakery, the Malta Maritime Museum charts Malta's maritime history and lore within a Mediterranean context. It also illustrates the global nature of seafaring and its impact on Malta's society. The museum houses numerous artefacts highlighting the different epochs of Malta's history,

You can take a virtual tour of the museum here: https://heritagemalta.org/malta-maritime-museum/

TAKE A WATER TAXI

There is a ferry that runs from Valletta to Birgu  that is scheduled to run every 30 minutes.  I don't think it ever stuck to the schedule on my two visits to Malta.  I have used it a few times that I have been unable to get a water taxi.

 In my opinion, taking a water taxi is part of the experience of being in Malta.   It is usually only a short wait for the taxi and gives you the opportunity to view the cities from the water.

EXPLORE CHARMING STREETS OF BIRGU

One thing you will notice about roaming the narrow streets of Birgu  is the colorful wooden balconies that jut out from the buildings over the streets below.  These bright colors of these balconies stand out against the sandstone buildings.  

If you are an avid photographer, the uncrowded streets of Birgu allow you to capture the beauty of the balconies without tourist in the foreground of every photos.  

ENJOY THE NIGHTLIFE

Sunset in Birgu is magical.  The warm colors of the sun dance across the sandstone buildings and reflecting a warm glow on the water.

Once the sun sets and everyone arrives home in the evenings, the bright lights come on and are reflected into the harbor. 

 

At night, Birgu becomes quiet and you can hear the lapping of the waves but a short walk will bring you into a bustling area where you may be lucky enough to hear a live band playing or pick up a late night snack at one of the quaint shops along the waterway. 

For more information on Malta:  https://www.visitmalta.com/en/