Mdina

Mdina (English: Notabile) is a fortified city located at the northern part of Malta.  It served as the capital from antiquity to the medieval period but its importance started to decline when the Order of St. John arrived. Mdina saw a revival in the 18th early century.  Several Baroque buildings were established. But it did not step up again. Today, the wall remains. It impresses tourists with its medieval character imposed by the various Baroque monumental buildings. Only hundreds of people live within the wall.  But Mdina is contiguous to the town of Rabat (Arabic word for suburb) which as a population of 11,000 (as of 2014).

Mdina is nicked name 'silent city'.  It is a labyrinth of yellow-stoned architecture dotted with elaborate door knockers and balconies. Its squares and lanes in medieval and Baroque styles form a timeless atmosphere.  Churches, palazzi, rich houses, speciality stores together win tourists' admiration.

 

Walking around in Mdina is very enjoyable, like going back to the old days long before we came to the world. You will pass by but unaware of buildings mentioned in the list of things to do in Mdina.  But one building, St. :Paul Cathedral, will not be missed out.  Legend says St. Paul stayed in Malta after the shipwreck on the island.  Next to the cathedral stands the awesome Cathedral Museum.

Strolling through the narrow and shady lanes is a pleasure. But step up a bit the city walk to have an open and panoramic view of the surroundings is fascinating. You can the the splendid views either at the city wall or ascending to the first floor of the Fontanella Tea Garden. We like the ice Irish coffee.  Very rich! The energy is sufficient for a day's walk.