It is located next to the National Stadium and its capacity is 3,000 seats. It was opened in the summer of 1999 and is one of the stadiums in Malta that host European competitions. The stadium offers all facilities for football players, members of football teams, fans and journalists. Near the stadium there is also a car racing track, a gym, a basketball court, practice football fields, an animal park and a great picnic area.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO CENTENARY STADIUM
*** BUS: 56, 182, 202.
VALLETTA: THE ELEGANT MEDIEVAL CAPITAL
It is called the city of the Knights because it was founded by the Johannite Knights. The impressive fortified walls, the medieval aura and tradition that the atmosphere exudes, the elegance of the buildings and the majestic History compose a setting that you will fall in love with on your first visit. Valletta is an open air museum of architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tour Europe’s sunniest capital, learn about its every corner, walk the picturesque alleys and enjoy the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean.
Currency: Euro
Calling Code: +356
Nearest airports from city center: Malta International Airport (9km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** UPPER BARRAKKA GARDENS (292 Triq Sant’ Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta)
It is a landmark for the city. They were created in the 17th century for knights to rest and for centuries were the spot where the visitor and the local had the best view of the island.
*** LOWER BARRAKKA GARDENS (VGW8+XVG, Quarry Wharf, Valletta)
It is twinned with the Upper Barakka Gardens and offers a wonderful view of the Grand Harbour. Also see the neoclassical temple which is the monument to Sir Alexander Balla.
*** ST. JOHN’S CO-CATHEDRAL (Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta)
It dates from 1577 and bears the seal of the Order of Saint John. It is an imposing Roman Catholic church and is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist.
*** VALLETTA WATERFRONT
The baroque design problems date from the 18th century and for centuries it was the most important commercial and financial center of the city. Many shops, bars and restaurants you will find during your walk. Enjoy your food or your coffee with a view of the blue waters.
*** NATIONAL WAR MUSEUM – FOR ST. ELMO (Fort St Elmo Il-Belt Valletta, Valletta VLT 1741)
It was the site of some of the fiercest fighting when the Maltese defended themselves against Ottoman besiegers for a month. In the National War Museum you can find exhibits related to the History of Malta. The fortress dates back to 1533.
*** NATIONAL MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS ( Auberge D’Italie, Triq Il-Merkanti, Il-Belt Valletta)
The building dates back to 1760 and since 1974 has housed most of Malta’s cultural heritage. See sculptures, paintings and several exhibits dating back to the 15th century.
*** CASA ROCCA PICCOLA (74 Triq Ir-Repubblika, Il-Belt Valletta)
It has a history of five centuries and you will be impressed by its architecture. Visit the palace that was the home of the noble de Piros family.
*** BIEB IL-BELT, CITY GATE (19 St Mark Street, Valletta)
It is located at the entrance of the city and is a trademark of Valletta. It was built in the early 2010s.
*** THE LASCARIS WAR ROOMS (Lascaris Ditch Valletta, VLT 2000)
It has great national and historical significance for the country. It was the site of the War Headquarters during World War II. See the tunnels and chambers that remain unchanged from that time.
*** GRANDMASTER PALACE COURTYARD (Palazz tal-President, Il-Belt Valletta)
The palace dates back to the 16th century and the impressive courtyard predisposes you to a unique experience inside. The majestic corridors with ceiling paintings of the 18th century, the rich decoration of the rooms, the frescoes depicting the Great Siege of 1565 and the Armory Palace with the weapons of the knights will fascinate you.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Sweethaven Village or as it is known as Popeye’s Village attracts thousands of tourists and is a must visit. This fishing village was created for the needs of the 1980 movie Popeye, starring the late Robin Williams. It is about 45 minutes away from Valletta.
*** It is worth a walk to the National Archaeological Museum.
*** We would recommend Two Harbors Cruise and take the approximately 1.5 hour sea ride between Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour.
*** Cruise the Blue Lagoon of Malta and Gozo is a must do and the experience will be unforgettable.
*** Mosta Rotunda is a Roman Catholic parish church dating from 1865.
*** We would recommend you to take a walk in the Grand Harbour.
*** Saluting Battery dates back to the 16th century and houses the historic cannons.
FOOD AND DRINK
Malta is an island and it is a given that you will find great fish recipes in Valletta. In the city you will find all cuisines (American, Asian, European, Latin American), but it is worth trying the local delicacies. Try Torta tal-lampuki which is the most famous fish recipe. Locals rave about timpana (looks like a spaghetti pie), soppa tal-armla and Maltese rabbit recipes (Fenkata). The Kapunata is very tasty and definitely try the Pastizzi. Many also prefer Brungiel Mimli, Bragioli and Kapunata. Try the sweet Kannoli and Prinjolata for dessert.
WHERE TO STAY
There are several hotels that you will like, either in the city center or just outside the center.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** Republic Street is one of the busiest streets in the city with many shops for your shopping.
*** We would recommend seeing a performance at the iconic Manoel Theatre.
*** Strait Street is the ideal place to enjoy your night with night clubs, bars etc.
*** The Savoy, Energy Complex and Capitala are three shopping malls for your shopping.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot or by bike.
CITIES NEAR VALLETTA
Major cities close to Valletta are Sliema (2km), San Giljan (8km), Birkirkara (8km), H’Attard (20km), Mellieħa (23km).
PHOTO CREDITS: Official Website Malta FA
