Mdina: The Silent City
Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city and extraordinary in its mix of medieval and baroque architecture.
The history of Mdina traces back more than 4000 years. According to tradition it was here that in 60 A.D. that the Apostle St. Paul is said to have lived after being shipwrecked on the Islands. Furthermore it is said that St. Paul resided inside the grotto know as Fuori le Mura (outside the city walls) now known as St. Paul’s Grotto in Rabat. Lamp lit by night and referred to as “the silent city”, Mdina is fascinating to visit for its timeless atmosphere as well as its cultural and religious treasures. – Mdina: Visitmalta.com

Mdina: Green Doors ©Helen Bushe
Mdina has had different names and titles depending on its rulers and its role but its medieval name describe it best – ‘Citta’ Notabile’: the noble city.
It was home then, as now, to Malta’s noble families; some are descendants of the Norman, Sicilian and Spanish overlords who made Mdina their home from the 12th century onwards. Impressive palaces line its narrow, shady streets. – Mdina:visit malta.com
Mdina: Brown Doors ©HelenBushe

Mdina: Street with Tree ©HelenBushe

Mdina: Church Door ©HelenBushe

Mdina: Balcony and Light ©HelenBushe
To see inside a Palazzo where Maltese nobility still meet click here.
To read more on Wikipedia of the 4,000 years of history of Mdina click here.
It’s a history of Ancient Greeks, Phoenicians, Byzantine occupation, Knights of the Order of St John, Maltese Nobility, sieges, battles…….not to mention cavalry and invading Ottomans…..the list goes on…..and on. It’s all happened here.
Today Mdina is a must-visit for anyone going to the Mediterranean island of Malta (tip: get there early in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds.). As well as wandering around these quiet streets, other attractions include visiting a Cathedral, a Carmelite Priory, the famous Fontanella Tearoom with views across the whole of Malta, and some wonderful restaurants for lunch.
Culture and Food are a great combination on holiday; throw in one of the best ice-creams I’ve ever had anywhere and our trip to Mdina was perfection!
14 Comments
paulfraser11 · 8 June 2017 at 12:49
A lovely set of images and write up, Helen
HMB · 8 June 2017 at 19:14
Thanks Paul
Amy · 7 June 2017 at 22:09
Beautiful photos of this amazing ancient wall city!!
HMB · 8 June 2017 at 08:47
Thanks Amy. It’s like no other place I’ve ever been.
Laurie Graves · 7 June 2017 at 19:54
What a golden place!
HMB · 7 June 2017 at 20:00
Thanks Laurie. It is one of the most amazing places I’ve ever been .
Cee Neuner · 7 June 2017 at 19:36
Helen, these are gorgeous photos for which way. Just think of the history that has walked through those streets.
HMB · 7 June 2017 at 19:59
Yes, knights in armour and all. You FEEL the history when walking around. Thanks for your comments
suzannerogersonfantasyauthor · 7 June 2017 at 18:15
Beautiful pictures, very inspiring for an author too!
HMB · 7 June 2017 at 18:16
A setting for your next book? Thanks for comment.
suzannerogersonfantasyauthor · 7 June 2017 at 18:32
Yes, I can definitely see these streets in one of my future books. I’ve saved your email for inspiration actually. Thank you!
HMB · 7 June 2017 at 18:38
I’ve a few more posts to do on Mdina. I’ll tag you when I do them.
suzannerogersonfantasyauthor · 7 June 2017 at 18:57
Brilliant, thank you 😀
Skulls and Candles in the Carmelite Priory - PHOTOPHILE · 11 July 2017 at 20:17
[…] Which Way around the Silent City of Mdina […]