In the capital of Malta , the city of Valletta, there is a huge building the size of an entire city block: it is inconspicuous on the outside, but inside strikes with its sophistication and wealth. This is the palace of the Grand Master. The history of the building begins in the 16th century, when it was built for the Italian part of the Order of the Johannites, and eventually the ruler of the state settled here. To visit the palace, check the opening hours on the site of the attraction or with local guides - it is periodically closed for government work.
History of Attraction
Shortly after the construction of the palace in 1570, members of the Italian part of the order were relocated to another building, and the palace was occupied by the Grand Master of the Johannites. Since then, each master used the palace as a residence, constantly improving and expanding the object.
The first version of the palace was built of wooden materials, which was impractical and quite fire hazardous, and at the beginning of the 17th century the structure was redone using stone materials. The construction took several decades, the best Italian architects were engaged in it. The Italian master also supervised and engaged in the painting of the premises, and all finishing work was completed in 1724.
Until 1800, the palace was destroyed and restored, changing its appearance and layout, until the British conquered the island in 1800 in the war with Napoleon: then the governor began to use the palace, and in 1921, premises were opened for the state parliament. Since 1976, the building has also been used as a presidential residence, which is why the facility is periodically closed for important government events.
Palace Features
The object is built of white stone and looks like a real fortress. Inside the palace there are two courtyards: Neptune and Alfred - Neptune's courtyard is popular among tourists, attracting a large statue of the god of the seas and a beautiful fountain.
Outside, the building is almost not decorated except for the main entrance: there are columns and two galleries. The side entrance to the palace will delight you with beautiful statues at the gate, and above the palace there is a small tower with bells and a clock.
Going inside the room, you will see all the luxury of Italian palaces:
- Sculptures and bas-reliefs
- Painted ceilings
- Rich mosaic flooring.
Each element was made by the best masters of that time, maximum attention was paid to all details - it is difficult to tear an enthusiastic look from the majority. Being in the palace, visit the armory with a collection of 6 thousand items used at different times and by different peoples: from daggers, sabers and pistols to guns. A hall with armor is also open in the palace: you will see what the knights of the Johannites served in, including the armor made for the Grand Master. The rooms of the palace have preserved rich decoration, including ancient tapestries and portraits of the rulers of Malta from different times.
Interesting Facts
- Among the portraits housed in the palace, there is an image of Catherine II - she handed it to the knights of Malta as a sign of respect.
- The dimensions of the palace are 97 meters long, 83 meters wide.
- The son of Catherine II, Paul I, was the Grand Master of the Johannites.
