Three Cities

Embark on a scenic drive to Birgu, the first settlement of the Knights of Malta. Birgu was renamed Vittoriosa after the Great Siege victory of 1565.Then it’s all aboard the trolley train for a 40 minute guided tour. Enjoy an informative commentary about the history, culture and architecture of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua.

The Three Cities became one when the Knights enclosed them together to improve their 17th century defences.

After the train ride, it’s time for your guide to host you on a walk through the narrow streets of Vittoriosa to discover the city’s charms. Just off the square are the narrow stone paved streets which served as ‘Collachio’, an area which was exclusively reserved for the Knights. Here their first auberges were concentrated with the idea to keep themselves well-knit and to be easy to defend in the event of an enemy attack. A surprising number have survived, which the guide will gladly point out for you along the way.

Before you head back to the ship, you’ll have some free time to explore Vittoriosa at your own leisure. You can either visit the Maritime Museum, at your own expense or simply relax at one of the cafés at the thriving Vittoriosa waterfront.