Phylicia StitzelPerched high above the Maltese countryside, Mdina feels like a place where time stands still. Nicknamed “the Silent City”, Mdina is Malta’s former capital and one of its oldest settlements, with roots stretching back more than 4,000 years. Its hilltop position made it a perfect natural stronghold, and as you begin this self-guided walking tour, you’ll quickly understand why so many civilizations—from the Phoenicians to the Romans—wanted to call this spot home.
During Roman rule, Mdina (then known as Melite) was a prosperous city of noble villas and grand streets, long before knights and crusaders entered the story. Later, under Arabian influence, the city’s name and layout were reshaped into the maze-like lanes you’ll wander today. Narrow streets designed to confuse invaders and keep the city cool in the summer heat. It’s history you don’t just read about; it’s literally under your feet, carved into limestone blocks and hidden behind heavy wooden doors.
In medieval times, Mdina became the seat of Maltese nobility, earning its reputation as a city of palaces, coats of arms, and whispered legends. When the Knights of the Order of St. John arrived in the 16th century, they further fortified the city, adding dramatic bastions and gates that still frame your walk today. Despite wars, earthquakes, and changing rulers, Mdina remained resilient, making it one of the best-preserved walled cities in Europe.
Today, Mdina is wonderfully family-friendly, especially for curious kids and parents who like their history served with a side of adventure. Cars are restricted, streets are quiet, and every corner feels like a real-life storybook—perfect for little imaginations to run wild (without actually running too far). This walking tour is designed to move at a leisurely pace, mixing major historical moments with small discoveries, so your family can explore together as the city reveals its stories one cobblestone at a time.
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Best Route for a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Mdina
Table of Contents
St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral anchors Mdina both spiritually and visually, standing on the site believed to be the Roman governor’s palace where St. Paul met Publius after his shipwreck in AD 60. The current Baroque structure dates to the late 17th century, rebuilt after an earthquake leveled much of medieval Mdina. Its warm limestone façade sets the tone for the city’s stately elegance.
Inside, the cathedral reveals ornate marble floors marking noble tombs, gilded chapels, and dramatic frescoes that quietly impress without overwhelming young visitors. The space is grand but calm, making it a good introduction to Maltese religious history for families.
Take a moment to step into Cathedral Square outside—this open area gives kids space to breathe while parents admire the symmetry and scale of Mdina’s most important building.
Why visit: It’s the heart of Mdina’s story and an easy way to introduce kids to Malta’s deep Christian history.
Hours: Typically daily, morning–late afternoon (varies by season and services)
Address: Triq San Pawl
Gourgion House
Gourgion House is one of the most elegant aristocratic residences, showcasing how noble families once lived within the city walls. Its refined façade displaying neo-Gothic architecture, unlike the buildings around it, which were built in the Baroque style, this house stands out as a rarity in the country. You can see hints of wealth and influence held by Mdina’s elite long after it stopped being Malta’s capital.
While the interior is not generally open to the public, the building still plays an important role in understanding Mdina as a living city rather than an open-air museum. Walking past homes like this helps kids grasp that people actually lived—and still live—inside these walls.
Pause here to talk about what daily life might have looked like centuries ago: servants, horses, candlelight dinners, and a city that went to sleep early.
Why visit: A glimpse into noble life and Mdina’s residential past.
Hours: Exterior viewing only
Address: Triq Inguanez
Saint Sofia Palace
Saint Sofia Palace is one of Mdina’s oldest surviving palaces, dating back to the medieval period. Its architecture reflects layers of history, blending Norman and later influences that mirror Malta’s complex past. The Palace ground floow was constructed in 1233, a date which is proudly inscribed on one of the window moldings. The upper floor however was added in more recent history of 1938. Throughout it’s long history it has played a vital role to the city, including housing a Roman Catholic nun school.
Though privately owned, the building’s exterior alone tells a story—arched windows, heavy doors, and subtle decorative details hint at its age. It’s an excellent stop to encourage kids to look closely and spot differences between medieval and Baroque styles.
Why visit: A tangible reminder of Mdina’s medieval roots.
Hours: Exterior viewing only
Address: Triq Villegaignon
Carmelite Church and Priory
The Carmelite Church and Priory add a softer, more contemplative layer to Mdina’s history. Built in the 17th century, the church served the Carmelite order and reflects the quieter religious life within the city walls.
The church was built between 1660 and 1675 in the notable Baroque style, which is fun for us history nerds. Another interesting fact is that this church was the first to be built in Malta with an elliptical planned architecture. As you enter the church, your eyes will be drawn to the main altar, where a stunning painting of The Annunciation by Stefano Erardi (1677) captivates your attention.
Inside the Priory’s cloisters, visitors will find themselves bathed in natural light, courtesy of the courtyard that connects the Priory to the Church, which still serves as a peaceful place for the friars to meditate throughout the day.
Why visit: Calm, approachable, and ideal for a quieter family stop.
Hours: Typically mornings; may close midday
Address: Triq Villegaignon
Falson Palace
Falson Palace is an engaging stop for families. This medieval townhouse-turned-museum offers insight into domestic life through art, furniture, and personal collections amassed by Captain Olof Gollcher. Constructed in 1495, it is the second-oldest building in Mdina, after the ground floor of the Sofia Palace. Over the centuries, the palace has undergone numerous alterations and expansions. During the rule of the Order of St. John, it was believed to have hosted many important historical figures, including Philippe Villiers de L’Isle-Adam, the first Grand Master of Malta.
Since 2007, the Palace has been open to the public as the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum, which the Maltese Heritage Foundation manages.
The museum layout feels more like a home than a formal gallery, which helps kids connect to the objects on display. The 17 rooms flow naturally, making it easy to imagine life here centuries ago. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, offering sweeping views over Mdina and beyond—perfect for a reset before continuing the walk.
Why visit: One of the most family-friendly museums in Mdina.
Hours: Usually daily, late morning–afternoon
Address: Triq Villegaignon
Bastion Square
Bastion Square delivers one of Mdina’s best panoramic views, overlooking much of central Malta. Historically, this was a defensive vantage point—today it’s a peaceful place to pause.
Kids love spotting landmarks and imagining how soldiers once guarded the island from this very spot. It’s also an excellent location for photos and snacks, which in our case was ice cream.
Why visit: Big views, fresh air, and space to roam.
Hours: Open daily
Address: Bastion Square
Knights of Malta Museum
This museum focuses on the era of the Knights of St. John, bringing armor, weapons, and stories of defense to life. It’s one of the most kid-friendly historical sites in Mdina.
Exhibits are visually engaging and help explain how Mdina fit into Malta’s wider military strategy. For kids, knights and fortresses make history feel exciting rather than abstract. Plan extra time here if your children love castles and battles.
Why visit: Knights + armor = instant kid interest.
Hours: Typically daily, morning–afternoon
Address: Triq Mesquita
Greek Gate
The Greek Gate is a fascinating historical landmark that holds within its walls. Originally built during the medieval period, this iconic gate has witnessed centuries of service as the city’s secondary entrance, offering a quieter alternative to the main gate. Its narrow passage hints at the city’s defensive planning.
Walking through here feels secretive and adventurous—perfect for kids who like hidden paths. One peculiar aspect that sets the Greeks Gate apart is its association with the passage of slaves into the city. Historically, this was the only entrance that slaves were permitted to enter Mdina.
Why visit: A quieter, story-rich exit from the city.
Hours: Open daily
Address: Greek Gate
Fortifications of Mdina
Mdina’s fortification walls wrap the city in thick limestone walls shaped by centuries of conflict. Built by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC as Maleth, then rebuilt by the Romans, known as Melite, the Byzantine Empire’s control in the 8th Century AD passed into the hands of the Arabs in the 11th century, and then to the Knights during the medieval times until the 15th century…they tell a layered story of survival.
Walking alongside the walls helps kids visualize sieges, guards, and lookout posts. It’s one of the most tactile historical experiences in Mdina.
Why visit: Walkable history with dramatic scenery.
Hours: Open daily
Address: Surrounding Mdina
Mesquita Square
Mesquita Square is one of Mdina’s most charming small squares, surrounded by historic buildings and cafés. It’s a natural pause point on the tour.
Historically, the square reflects Mdina’s layered cultural influences, including Arab urban planning. Today, it’s a relaxed spot to regroup. Perfect for a gelato break or quick rest.
Why visit: A calm, scenic family pause point.
Hours: Open daily
Address: Mesquita Square
Saint Agatha’s Chapel
Saint Agatha’s Chapel is one of Mdina’s oldest religious sites, tied to early Christian history and local devotion. Its modest size makes it less overwhelming for children.
The chapel’s story connects to Saint Agatha’s time in Malta, adding a personal dimension to the island’s religious narrative.
Why visit: Small, historic, and easy for kids to absorb.
Hours: Limited; exterior viewing common
Address: Triq Santa Agata
National Museum of Natural History
Housed in Palazzo Vilhena, this museum shifts the focus from human history to Malta’s natural world. Exhibits cover geology, wildlife, and ecosystems.
It’s a great indoor break for families, especially on hot days. Kids enjoy seeing fossils and learning how Malta formed.
The palace setting adds architectural interest too.
Why visit: Educational, cool, and kid-friendly.
Hours: Usually daily, morning–afternoon
Address: Triq Villegaignon
Mdina Dungeons Museum
The Mdina Dungeons Museum explores the darker side of history through recreated scenes of punishment and justice. While not ideal for very young children, older kids often find it fascinating.
Exhibits are atmospheric rather than graphic, but parental discretion is advised. It adds balance to the tour by showing that medieval life wasn’t all palaces and processions. Best visited near the end of the walk.
Why visit: Engaging for older kids who like “spooky history.”
Hours: Typically daily
Address: St. Publius Square
Mdina Gate & Howard Gardens
Mdina Gate is the grand entrance that instantly sets the tone for the city. Crossing under its arch feels cinematic and signals the transition from modern Malta to medieval calm.
Just outside, Howard Gardens provide shaded paths, fountains, and open space—ideal for kids to unwind after the tour. Historically, the gardens softened Mdina’s defenses with beauty. Together, they make the perfect beginning or ending to your walk.
Why visit: Iconic entrance + kid-friendly green space.
Hours: Gate open daily; gardens typically daylight hours
Address: Mdina Gate
