Valletta - the capital of Malta
The Mediterranean Sea has a tiny state made up of several islands. «Asylum» - this is what the name of the country means in translation from the ancient Phoenician language. The capital of Malta, the city of Valletta, has a population of 5.5 thousand people. The city was founded in the fifteenth century by a knight who guarded the settlement from the attack of the Turks..
The city's attractions
The rich history of the city has left behind amazing structures. Many tourists come here not for the Mediterranean climate, but for the sights.
St. John's Cathedral is the cathedral of the Diocese of Malta. It was built in 5 years in the second half of the sixteenth century. Due to the constant sieges of Malta, the cathedral was built in such a way that it resembles a fortification - formidable and impregnable on the outside, but luxurious and beautiful on the inside. The interior of the temple is decorated with a painting «The beheading of John the Baptist» - masterpiece by Caravaggio. This is the only work of art on which the author left his signature..
Casa Rossa Piccola is one of the most beautiful palaces in Valletta. It is noteworthy that a local noble family still lives in the building. For a long time, the palace could be rented.
History of the city's development
According to historical records, Malta has been under the rule of many states for many centuries. In the seventh century BC, it was ruled by the Greeks, and later by the Phoenicians. Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans - all of them at different times considered themselves full-fledged masters of the islands.
The history of the city begins with the fact that Jean de La Vallette, commanding a small group of Maltese knights, defeated the Turkish army. After a bloody battle, the knight decided to build a well-fortified city. This is how the first stone of the city walls of Valletta was laid. Local Christians and the entire Catholic world provided generous donations, which made it possible to quickly erect the main buildings.
The city was built in the best traditions of European urban planning. All streets and houses were arranged in such a way that the breeze from the sea penetrated almost every gateway, thus purifying the air. Starting in 1570, churches and palaces began to be built in the city. Trade, arts and crafts developed.
In the early nineteenth century, Valletta came under the rule of England, where it remained until 1974, when the Republic of Malta gained independence. During the Second World War, the state was bombarded by German aviation. The capital was almost completely destroyed, but over the years the buildings were restored, and Valletta blossomed again.
