Information
Landmark: Bastion SquareCity: Mdina
Country: Malta
Continent: Europe
Bastion Square, Mdina, Malta, Europe
Overview
Bastion Square, in the heart of Valletta, Malta, offers sweeping views from its perch within the old city walls and carries the weight of centuries in every weathered stone.Perched along Valletta’s fortified bastions, the square lets visitors trace the island’s military and architectural past while soaking in sweeping views of the harbors and the city’s spire-studded skyline.Bastion Square is part of the fortifications the Knights of St. John built while ruling Malta, from the 1500s to the 1700s, when stone walls rose high against the sea wind.After the Great Siege of Malta, Grand Master Jean de la Valette founded Valletta in 1566, surrounding it with stone bastions that bristled against attack and gave the city a sharp strategic edge.Valletta’s star-shaped bastions gave the Knights a firm grip on the island and a strong defense against attack.Bastion Square sits right on those walls, where the stone still holds the day’s heat and the view stretches over the glittering harbor.The square matters not just for guarding the city but also for shaping Valletta’s layout.Bastion Square sits near the Upper Barracca Gardens, a high terrace where you can look out over the glittering sweep of the Grand Harbour.From Bastion Square, you can take in sweeping views of the harbor, the Three Cities-Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua-and the rugged southeastern coast of Malta.Look down to see the Saluting Battery, where cannons once thundered in honor of visiting dignitaries, and beyond it, the vast blue stretch of the Grand Harbour.It’s also one of the best spots to admire Valletta’s towering stone walls and intricate fortifications, with the viewing platform at its heart.From the square, you can soak in the harbor’s sparkle and the charm of the hills that rise just beyond.If you want one of the best spots in Valletta for sweeping photos of the harbor, head to the Siege Bell War Memorial near Bastion Square, where the bronze bell rings in memory of those lost in the Second World War.Every day at noon, the bell tolls in memory of those lost in the Great Siege and later battles.Just a short stroll from Bastion Square, the Upper Barracca Gardens offer shady paths, bursts of greenery, and sweeping views over the harbor.These gardens hold a memorial to Sir Winston Churchill, and at noon you can hear the deep boom of a cannon salute.Right next to the square stands the Saluting Battery, a historic line of artillery once used to mark ceremonies and signal ships coming into port.Today it’s an open-air museum that draws crowds, with Bastion Square set among Valletta’s old fortifications.Visitors can walk along the weathered limestone walls, once positioned to guard the city against attack.The bastions are dotted with watchtowers and gates, giving you a vivid peek into the city’s military past-the rough stone still cool to the touch.Bastion Square sits right along a walking path, so it’s easy to reach as you wander through the city.Perched on a hill, Valletta’s square sits high above the streets, reached by worn stone steps and winding paths from all directions.Public buses run regularly, stopping near landmarks like the Upper Barracca Gardens and the bustle of Republic Street.It’s easy to reach the square from anywhere in the city, and once you’re there, Bastion Square invites you to linger-sip a warm coffee, breathe in the scent of fresh pastries, or simply watch the world drift by.From its perch overlooking the harbor and three surrounding cities, it’s a perfect place to snap photos or just take in the golden light of Malta’s capital.After exploring Bastion Square, you can wander to the National Museum of Archaeology, step inside St. John’s Co-Cathedral, or browse the quiet halls of the National Library of Malta.Bastion Square sits in the heart of Valletta, just steps from its grand old forts and other historic landmarks, and it remains a vital piece of the city’s heritage and military past.Built into the city’s old defenses, the square gives you sweeping views of Malta’s Grand Harbour, where sunlight glints off the water and the islands stretch out beyond.Bastion Square sits close to major landmarks, and its wide, quiet views-sunlight spilling over stone walls-make it a place you can’t miss when exploring Valletta’s rich history.Whether you’re drawn to its history, its grand old buildings, or just want to sip coffee while watching the square’s bustle, Bastion Square has something for everyone.
