Three Cities Waterfront

Cradle of the Maltese knights

The Three Cities — Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea (L-Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla) — lie on the south side of the Grand Harbour, facing Valletta. It was here in 1530 that the Knights of Malta first settled on the island, before building Valletta. Birgu ("Vittoriosa", meaning "victorious") earned its name after surviving the Great Siege of 1565.

The Cottonera Lines

All three cities are enclosed by the massive Cottonera Lines fortification system, built in the 1670s-1680s. It is one of Europe's largest defensive systems, designed to protect the dockyards and harbours. The walls extend over 4 kilometres in length.

A living contrast

Unlike touristy Valletta, the Three Cities retain an authentic, everyday character. Narrow streets, balconies, parish churches, fishermen mending nets. The water taxi from Valletta costs EUR 2 and gives a beautiful view of both sides of the harbour. In Birgu, visit the Maritime Museum and Fort St. Angelo; in Senglea, the Gardjola Gardens with the iconic turret featuring a carved watchful eye.

Practical tip: The water taxi from Valletta (dock below the Barrakka Lift) is the best way to get there. Allow 3-4 hours for a relaxed visit. Birgu has several excellent restaurants with Valletta views, cheaper than across the harbour.