The island is rich in history, having served as a maritime "crossroads" for centuries, and has been an object of desire for all major civilisations and powers, who have striven to occupy it from ancient times right up to the twentieth century, when the courage of its inhabitants won for the island the George Cross, the highest civil decoration of the United Kingdom.

In Malta one is spoiled for choice when it comes to visiting museums and heritage sites. These range from art, military, maritime, crafts and folklore museums as well as churches, palaces, gardens and archaeological sites. Visiting museums and such sites is one of the best ways to better understand the islands’ history and way of life throughout the years.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral is historically and artistically one of the most important monuments of the islands. The "Beheading of St John the Baptist" by Caravaggio can be seen in the Oratory, as well as a set of 28 Flemish tapestries woven in Brussels.

The Grand Master’s Palace is half way down Republic Street. It has two lovely courtyards, and the armoury of the Knights, where arms and armour of various periods are displayed. In the Tapestry Chamber are the priceless Gobelin tapestries.

The National War museum It Is located in Fort St. Elmo, Valletta. The fort itself played a significant part in the Great Siege of 1565 as well as against an Italian E-boat attack in 1941. The museum has exhibits relating mostly to World War II, including weapons, uniforms and war vehicles.  

St Paul Shipwrecked Church Is a “hidden gem” and not to be missed. Entrance is through St Lucia Street or St Paul Street.

Bastions are the most prominent of Maltese architecture. The main ingredient used is a soft limestone. Mile upon mile of fortified curtains and bastions rise solidly from the ground and seem an integral part of the scene.

For a memorable view of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities go to the upper Barracca, or the lower Barracca Gardens with its well-known monument to Sir Alexander Ball. Hastings Gardens are set on the bastions overlooking Floriana. The Argotti Botanical Gardens are also worth a visit, as are the historical Sa Maison Gardens. Near Verdala Palace, outside Rabat, are the Buskett Gardens.

The Maritime museum was once a bakery belonging to the Royal Navy, and highlights the most important moments of Malta’s maritime history. Exhibits include two ceremonial barges several models of sailing ships and galleys of the Order, as well as a number of authentic guns and cannons.

Fort St Angelo at Vittoriosa, built around the 21st century AD, was enlarged and strengthened by the Knights who made it their headquarters. The Grand Master refashioned the residence to serve as his Magisterial Palace.
 
Mdina is the ancient capital of Malta and is a typical medieval town situated in the centre of the island. The “silent city” as it is known, commands a magnificent view of the island.