National Library

Valletta


This grand classical edifice was the last building erected by the Knights. It's worth popping in to admire the book-lined stacks, and there are occasional temporary exhibitions.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Valletta attractions

1. Grand Master's Palace

0.04 MILES

The stern exterior of the 16th-century Grand Master's Palace conceals a sumptuous interior. This was once the residence of the Grand Masters of the…

2. Armoury

0.04 MILES

Of the original 25,000 16th- to 18th-century Knights of St John suits of armour, around 5000 remain at the Armoury, which is housed in the Grand Master's…

3. Lion Fountain

0.05 MILES

Sculpted out of limestone in the 17th century by Maltese sculptor Mariano Gerada.

4. Church of St Paul's Shipwreck

0.06 MILES

In AD 60 St Paul was shipwrecked on Malta and brought Christianity to the population. This church has a 19th-century facade, but the interior dates from…

5. St John's Co-Cathedral

0.06 MILES

St John's Co-Cathedral, Malta's most impressive church, was designed by the architect Gerolamo Cassar. It was built between 1573 and 1578, taking over…

6. Valletta Living History

0.06 MILES

A glossy, entertaining 35-minute sweep through Malta's eventful history (available in eight languages).

7. Malta Contemporary Art

0.07 MILES

After a few years of exhibiting at various pop-up venues around Valletta, Malta Contemporary Art (MCA) now has its own dedicated space tucked away in a…

8. Malta Postal Museum

0.07 MILES

Sandwiched between a pub and restaurants on Triq l-Arċisqof is this compact but interesting museum. Highlights of the permanent exhibition include the…