Fun Facts You Might Not Know About: Mdina!

Mdina, also known as The Silent City, is one of the most magical and mysterious places in Malta. It sits high on a hill in the middle of the island and has been around for over 4,000 years! That is even older than Valletta. Long ago, Mdina was actually Malta’s capital city, and it was home to noble families, knights, and even Roman governors. The streets are so narrow that cars are mostly not allowed, which is why it is so peaceful and quiet. But don’t be fooled – there is lots going on behind those beautiful old walls!

One of the coolest things about Mdina is how well it is preserved. Walking through the streets feels like stepping into a movie. In fact, parts of Game of Thrones were filmed there! You might recognise the Main Gate as the entrance to King’s Landing. And while Mdina looks like something out of a fairytale, it has real stories to tell. Some say it is haunted by the ghost of a grey lady who wanders the walls at night. Spooky or exciting? You decide.

The name Mdina comes from the Arabic word medina, which means city. During the Arab rule in Malta, the city was surrounded with high walls to protect it from invaders. Today, those walls still stand strong, and the view from the top is amazing. You can see all the way to Mosta, Mtarfa, and even the sea on a clear day.

Mdina is also home to St Paul’s Cathedral, which was built in the 1600s after an earthquake damaged the old one. Inside, you will find fancy decorations, old tombstones, and a floor made of colourful marble. If you like museums, there is also the Mdina Dungeons and the Natural History Museum, both packed with cool stuff from Malta’s past.

Now let’s talk about food. Mdina has some brilliant cafés and restaurants, especially the famous Fontanella Tea Garden. It is known for its delicious cakes and stunning views. Their chocolate cake is almost as famous as the Dome in Mosta! People come from all over just to have a slice.

So next time you visit Mdina, do not just take a selfie and leave. Look around, imagine the knights and nobles walking those same streets, and listen closely. You never know what stories the Silent City might whisper to you!

#MaltaDaily