“The legs go where the heart goes”
Maltese proverb
Mdina, Malta, is for curious travelers. It is a city that will capture your imagination and leave you in awe. It is known as the “Silent City” because it became uninhabited after the 1565 Great Siege of Malta. The government stripped it of its capital status and gave it to present-day Vittoriosa. People began leaving Mdina, and it became almost a ghost town. Therefore, the “Silent City” nickname refers to the lack of inhabitants. Mdina has a small population (about 500 people) living within the city walls. As you stroll through the city in the evening, an eerie silence remains.
The town of Mdina has a rich, turbulent, and unique history. It fell into the hands of several different empires, from the Romans to the Arabs. Many rulers governed this town, making it prosperous in their time. That’s why you can see the blend of many cultures in its attractions today. Even the name Mdina is a metamorphic form of Arabic.
Mdina is located near Rabat, which offers excellent cultural and historical value. Rabat’s history dates back more than 4,000 years and attracts thousands of tourists each year. When tourists visit Mdina, they often spend time in Rabat because it has more cafes and many attractions.
Where is Mdina, and how do you Get There?
Most people arrive in Malta by plane at the international airport or by ferry from Italy, but Valetta is also a stop on many Mediterranean cruises. Once in the country, traveling to Mdina is quick as the island is tiny.
Mdina is located near the center of the island nation of Malta. As you approach, Mdina’s immense ancient ramparts rise from the surrounding countryside. No matter how prepared you are for the view, it still takes your breath away, and you may call out, “Pullover; I need to take pics.” As with us, many people will join you along the roadside. It is no less impressive at night than during the day. As you approach, the town has a fairy-tale charm, which will only grow stronger as you enter.
We rented a car and parked in a pay lot next to Mdina’s main gate. Those car lots are likely busy at peak season. There are no cars within Mdina’s city walls, except for residents.
Taxis are available in Malta, but they can be expensive. Most visitors will arrive in this city from Valletta, a walled town with a rich history. If you are coming by bus, you must catch bus 51 from Valletta. It will take you straight to Mdina in 30 minutes and is an absolute bargain at $2.
Rabat
The town of Rabat adjoins the ancient capital city of Mdina. It has a more chill vibe that permeates both districts. Rabat has ancient parts, but it is also a modern, vibrant city. On Saturday, there’s a popular farmers’ market in the main square of Rabat.
After visiting Mdina, it was clear the city had a vibrant nightlife, with many well-dressed young professionals walking around looking for a fun night out. Rabat is known for its culinary offerings, and there are more accommodation options here than in Mdina.
Map of Mdina, Malta
Considering a trip to Malta? Check out our Malta Country Guide.
Mdina and Malta’s Turbulent History
Malta has a long history of occupations due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean Sea. Even Napoleon and Hitler occupied the island. Mdina’s elevated location in the center of the island made it highly desirable for the rulers. From Mdina, you can see the entire island and the sea, and receive warnings of approaching enemies.
The ancient fortified town of Mdina dates back to the Bronze Age, ~2000 BC. The impressive fortifications were built by Malta’s many occupiers, including the Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spaniards, and Knights of St John. Through St Paul’s shipwreck, Mdina, at the time named Melite, is mentioned in the Bible!
Mdina was Malta’s former capital when the Phoenicians occupied it. The Romans subsequently conquered Malta in 218 BC. The Eastern Romans/Byzantines acquired the island in the 6th century AD. The city’s footprint was much larger at the time, with its walls encircling a large portion of neighboring Rabat. The Byzantines reduced its size to make it more defensible. Around 870 AD, Arab forces overran the Byzantines and renamed the city Mdina.
In 1090 AD, the Normans took control, reintroducing Christianity to Malta. As a result, many noble families settled in Mdina. But the occupations were not over. The Germans followed the Normans, and the Angevins from France followed. The Maltese noble families grew in stature after a Royal Charter in 1482 from King Alfonso V confirmed the Maltese people’s right to a degree of independence. As a result, the local government and a university were established in Mdina.
Knights of the Military Order of Saint John
When the Knights of the Military Order of Saint John arrived on the island around 1530, Malta’s self-governing power was lost. As a result, resentment grew among the nobles. The Knights, though, found Mdina’s fortifications weak, and the Knights wanted to be closer to the harbor, so they made their base in Birgu. This left the nobles isolated in Mdina, but the city lost its capital status. In the following years, the Knights were in constant conflict with the Ottoman Empire over control of the Mediterranean. It culminated in 1565 with the Great Siege. The Ottomans attempted to capture Mdina but retreated after the city fired its cannon.
Only after the highly destructive 1693 earthquake did the Knights of St John return to Mdina. In 1722, Grand Master Vilhena ordered the restoration of Mdina. French architect de Mondion was tasked with introducing many French Baroque elements to the city. Most of the fortifications and the city gates were completely redone.
The French invaded Malta in 1798, which sparked a two-year uprising and blockade. The Maltese people then established a National Assembly, which met in Mdina. In 1800, the French surrendered, and Malta became a British protectorate.
Mdina – Interesting Facts
Did you know that Mdina was also introduced as the King’s Landing in Game of Thrones? This reason alone attracts many tourists to this town.
Mdina has also been featured in other major films and TV series. The town’s structure and sights appear in Cutthroat Island, Treasure Hunt, The Sign of Four, and Agora.
Although it is a small town, it welcomes more than 700,000 tourists annually.
Most tourists know this place as the “Silent City,” but they may not know it is also called the “Noble City” (Città Notabile). In the 12th century, aristocratic families from different regions and cultures lived in Mdina and built beautiful royal buildings according to their status. This is why Mdina is also a prime example of a walled city.
It is located at the summit of Malta’s highest hill. The ancient rulers of this town recognized its strategic location and made it a noble city, granting it high status. If you visit this place, you will also understand the area’s importance. However, this top-of-the-hill position also has a downside for Mdina. A little autumn wind will make you feel chilly.
Tourists cannot drive in the city, but residents within the walls may use their vehicles.
Mdina has many old buildings, but the most famous church in the center of town is not among them. This is because the 1693 earthquake destroyed the original church. The church you see today was redesigned by Lorenzo Gafa (a professional sculptor and architect who built many other churches).
This small town also has its soccer team called “Mdina Knights.”
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Top 16 Things to Do in Mdina
First, you need to understand that Mdina is a tiny town. As you pass through its main gate, you discover its silence, ancient buildings, and enchanting alleyways. You won’t find many tourist shops here; there are just a handful of little stores, an ice cream shop, and some restaurants. There is a laid-back, calming vibe and a refreshing respect for place.
You can walk most of this walled city in 30 minutes, but both times, we found ourselves drawn in by its magic. As a result, we spent much longer, especially in the evening. It is easy to get absorbed in photographing Mdina. The various gates and the exterior are well worth exploring as well.
1. Visit the impressive St. Paul’s Cathedral. Dedicated to the Patron Saint of Malta, St Paul’s Cathedral is Baroque in style and was built during the 17th century after the original was destroyed in the devastating 1693 earthquake, after taking in the Cathedral museum next door.
2. Check out the intricate maze street plan. It is the most obvious influence of the Arab occupation, reflecting traditional Islamic urban design. We were fascinated by the streets, especially in the evening.
3. See the magnificent Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum. The museum is housed in a medieval townhouse that was once a family residence of the Maltese nobility. It is named after the Falson family. It has seventeen rooms of historic domestic belongings and several antique collections.
4. Want to see Mdina’s prison life? Visit Mdina’s Dungeons. They have an extensive collection of instruments of torture. Wander through the authentic passageways and chambers that run under the Vilhena Palace, with sound effects of the dark side of medieval Mdina.
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5. Slowly wander the streets and admire the architecture that the noble families built. Do not let those tiny doors deceive you; they lead to properties with vast interiors. You may catch a glimpse when the resident leaves for errands.
6. Are you a Game of Thrones fan? Mdina will be memorable for you. As you approach the Mdina gate, you’ll see sculptures of weapons, lions guarding the gate, and Grandmaster de Vilhena’s crest, which is seen in the show as King’s Landing.
7. Find an event at Palazzo de Piro. This 17th-century imposing structure is nestled within the bastions of Mdina and the nearby majestic Baroque St Paul’s Cathedral. This magnificent Palace offers one of the most spectacular panoramas of the Maltese coastline. There’s always something happening at the Palazzo, from live jazz nights to art exhibitions. Click here for the event schedule.
8. Spend a romantic evening at the De Mondion Restaurant in the 17th-century Xara Palace, one of only two hotels in Mdina. We did not visit the restaurant, but the reviews are glowing, and the views are stunning.
9. Travel back in time with the Knights of Malta Experience to discover the epic history of Malta. Great options for kids, as it brings to life the characters who played roles in Malta’s turbulent history.
10. Stroll through the lush, green Buskett Gardens. The Knights of Malta planted them initially as a hunting ground, but they are now an excellent place to picnic and relax. Grab some food in Rabat, relax, and enjoy the gorgeous setting.
11. Stop by the National Museum of Natural History, located in an 18th-century Vilhena palace that was also once a hospital for cholera sufferers and British troops during the 19th century and tuberculosis patients in the early 20th century.
An evening visit is a must!
12. Walk down the dimly lit streets after dark to see the private residences where only a handful of residents live. Silence permeates the air, and you understand quickly why it still keeps its name, the Silent City.
13. Attend special events, such as Grand Prix or Medieval Performances.
14. Stop for tea and cake at the Fontanella Tea Garden. This place is known for its homemade cakes, which come in generous portions. There is seating both downstairs and upstairs, and the upstairs offers the most spectacular views.
15. Visit St Paul’s Catacombs outside Mdina’s city walls. A series of corridors, cavities, and rooms still bear the original stone carvings. The underground chambers were believed to have been used as a resting place until the 8th century.
16. Explore the city’s fortifications from outside the city. Leave through any of the city gates and study the defensive structures built centuries ago. Outside the city walls are excellent pathways, benches, and open lawn areas, allowing you to get up close to the walls.
Mdina’s Most Attractive Feature
We can say the most attractive feature of Mdina is “Silence.” Our first visit was in the evening. It was so peaceful and mystical, as if the walls had so many stories to tell. You could find yourself stepping back in time and imagining its bustling days.
You will find this small fortified town eerily quiet. Please visit it, especially after sunset. No one will bother you or push you into disillusionment. Sit quietly and enjoy the silence. Your only companion will be the dim light of the street lamps.
In almost every small town in the world, because of continuous construction and development, you won’t experience an atmosphere of silence or stillness. However, in Mdina, there are no disturbing noises of modernization. Malta is undergoing extensive reconstruction. This has placed significant strain on many residents and raised fears about the country’s over-modernization. In Mdina, you will not experience that chaos. Even tourists appreciate the city’s atmosphere and prefer to keep it quiet. Instead of using bicycles or cars, they go for a calm walk.
This feature makes it a photographer’s paradise. Photographing this city at night was very enjoyable, and having whole streets to yourself. Mdina struck us so hard at night that we returned during the day. We are glad we did it that way; though we enjoyed our day visit, it wasn’t nearly as impressive as our evening visit.
Malta captured our hearts, and we dedicated a blog post to this great country. Check out Exploring Mighty Malta: A Visitor Guide
When To Visit
Malta’s weather is a primary reason people visit the Maltese islands year-round, with warm summers, mild winters, and over 3,000 hours of sunshine. The best time to visit Mdina, Malta, is late summer or in the shoulder months of May and October. Malta’s summer temps are reasonable and rarely get over the low 80s. In our view, the ideal months are September and October, when average temperatures are in the 70s and spring temperatures are in the 60s. Winter highs are in the 50s, so the climate is mild year-round.
Malta has become a trendy tourist destination, especially among Europeans. During the summer months, you’ll find crowded beaches and resort areas. Even the Blue Lagoon, the famous swimming area of Comino accessible only by boat, can get quite congested in peak season. Mdina will likely get busy as well. We visited in the fall, and during our evening visit to Mdina, we had the place primarily to ourselves. During our day visit, the crowds were low as well.
Dining in Mdina
Regarding accommodations in Mdina, there are a few dining options in the small fortified town. But the options there are pretty good. Our hotel recommended Bacchus, and the concierge made our reservations. Bacchus offers fine culinary delights in a beautiful medieval building in the heart of Mdina. The restaurant is located in a building dating back to 1658, and its architecture ranges from Roman to Medieval, making Bacchus a unique setting. The fare featured French and Mediterranean cuisine. We had a delicious and relaxed meal.
Suggestions
De Monidan restaurant is located in the 17th-century Xara Palace, which also serves as a hotel. It is rated among the top restaurants in Malta. The restaurant offers a stunning 180-degree view of Malta. Its baroque architecture and attentive service create an enchanting atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for a romantic dinner. De Mondion offers fine Modern Mediterranean cuisine, combining seasonal products to create tantalizing dishes. We did not get to dine here, but the reviews are exceptional.
Are you looking for a cafe for delicious desserts and coffee or tea? Give Fontanella Tea Garden a visit. It is one of the most popular cafes on the island because of its delicious fare. It is perched on Mdina’s Bastions walls and spread around a central courtyard. As a result, Fontanella offers fantastic and unique panoramic views of the east side of Malta, stretching to the sea. Fontanella is known for its views and homemade desserts, especially its cakes. The menu includes baguettes, wraps, salads, and pizzas. Fontanella is a perfect place to have a slice of cake after a day of exploring Mdina.
Keep in mind that nearby Rabat has extensive dining options. You can easily walk from Mdina to Rabat, as it sits right outside the fortified walls.
Where to stay
Mdina is a tiny, highly protected gem. As a result, there are only two highly rated accommodations: Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux and St Agatha Bastion. The latter looks quite pricey. Just outside the ancient city’s walls is Rabat, which has many choices.
Keep in mind that Malta is a small island; the total length is 27 miles, and the width is only nine miles. Mdina is at one of the island’s highest points in the center. That puts you pretty central to everything. That said, you are not near the ocean but do have distant ocean views. During our time in Malta, we were on the water at the Malta Hilton in the St Julian area, which we loved. But when we return, it would be very tempting to stay inside the fortified walls of Mdina. The walled city has a magical atmosphere at night -and you’ll be one of the few people walking the silent streets.
When planning a trip, it’s always wise to compare accommodation prices across different platforms. Expedia, based in the U.S., and Booking.com, based in Europe, don’t always feature the same properties, so checking both can give you the best range of options. We prefer Booking.com for its user-friendly interface and wide selection, but we always recommend double-checking the hotel or vacation rental’s official website. Sometimes, you’ll find exclusive deals or perks when booking directly.
Click the link below to explore hotels and vacation homes in the area you are planning to visit. Who knows? It might be just the spark you need to start planning your next grand adventure.
Why Mdina is a Must-Visit Destination in Malta
Mdina, Malta, stands as one of Europe’s most captivating fortified cities. Despite its modest size, this historic town—known as the Silent City—remains a must-visit destination. Its deep historical significance to Malta, combined with its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, makes it an unforgettable experience. While it may be smaller than its ancient origins, Mdina’s charm is undiminished. Although it is not yet a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is on the tentative list, and its recognition is only a matter of time. Whether you are drawn to its narrow streets, rich history, or tranquil atmosphere, Mdina is a place not to be missed when visiting Malta.
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To learn more about Mdina and the neighboring city of Rabat, check out Malta’s official tourism website.
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Mdina Photo Gallery
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