Fun Facts You Might Not Know About: Birgu!

Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, is one of the oldest and most interesting cities in Malta. It sits right next to the Grand Harbour and was once the most important town on the island. Before Valletta even existed, Birgu was the home of the Knights of St John when they arrived in Malta in 1530. They turned it into a powerful fortress and built grand buildings like the Inquisitor’s Palace and Fort St Angelo. That big fort at the tip of the city is where the knights planned battles, stored weapons and even lived during the Great Siege of 1565. That battle was a huge deal, and Birgu played a key role in winning it. After the knights survived the siege, the town was given the name “Vittoriosa,” which means “victorious.”

But Birgu is not just about war and history. It has quiet little streets, colourful balconies, and one of the most magical events in Malta: BirguFest. Every October, the whole city lights up with thousands of candles. No street lights, just soft glowing lanterns and candles in windows, on walls and even floating in the harbour. It feels like walking through a dream.

Birgu is also home to Malta’s Maritime Museum, where you can learn about ships, sailors and sea monsters from centuries ago. You will even see old cannons and real knight armour. For something a bit creepy and cool, you can also visit the Inquisitor’s Palace, where people were questioned and punished hundreds of years ago. Now it is a museum, so no need to be scared… mostly.

The city’s layout is like a maze, with winding alleyways and hidden corners that are perfect for exploring. Some of the buildings still have marks from cannonballs and battles, so every wall has a story to tell. And if you like boats, the Birgu Marina is packed with fancy yachts and colourful fishing boats. It is the perfect place for a walk and maybe a cheeky ice cream.

Birgu may be small, but it is full of big stories, strong walls and beautiful views. So next time you visit, remember: this little town once saved the whole island!

#MaltaDaily