Palazzo Falson

Mdina, once the capital city of Malta, has had many names throughout its history, but its medieval name describes it best: "Città Notabile" - the noble city. Built on a plateau in the center of the island, its baroque cathedral and magnificent bastions dominate the skyline. A stroll through its narrow streets, which have not changed much in the last 1,000 years, is a must for any visitor to Malta. The area occupied by Mdina has been inhabited since at least the Bronze Age. The Phoenicians and Romans established their own settlements here, but the modern name and layout of the city reflect Arab rule before the Normans firmly established it as the country's capital. Although the construction of Valletta lessened its importance, a strong earthquake in 1693 led to reconstruction and a revival of the city. Since that time, Mdina has changed very little. Walk past the most notable sites in Mdina, including Vilhena Palace, St. Agatha’s Chapel, the Banca Giuratale, the Mdina Cathedral, and much more. During this tour we will visit Rabat. While in Rabat we enter Wignacourt museum and visit: WW2 Shelters, Catacombs and St. Paul's Grotto. Entrance ticket included.

Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is the second oldest building still standing in the walled city of Mdina, Malta’s former capital city. Formerly known as “Palazzo Cumbo-Navarra”, “Casa dei Castelletti” and “The Norman House”, it was re-opened to the public in May 2007 after a major restoration intervention undertaken by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti (Maltese Heritage Foundation). The origins of Palazzo Falson go back to the early 13th century. Palazzo Falson is a two-storey medieval palace fashioned on Sicilian examples of its period, purposely built as a family residence by the Maltese nobility. It consists of a series of rooms wrapped around an internal courtyard, and an overlying piano nobile (the noble floor or level) which contains the original living quarters. The set of rooms at the back of the courtyard form the oldest part of the building. In the early 16th century, the property was inherited by the Vice Admiral Michele Falson, who was the Head of the Town Council. After Malta was donated to the Knights of the Order of St. John by Emperor Charles V, Grand Master Philippe Villiers de L’Isle Adam, the first Grand Master in Malta, was hosted by Maltese nobles at Palazzo Falson after a ceremony in which he took possession of Mdina on 13 November 1530. Its most recent owner and resident, Captain Olof Frederick Gollcher O.B.E. (1889-1962) of Swedish descent, was a distinguished man who received a number of honours. He was a researcher, artist, philanthropist and a passionate collector of objets d’art and historical items, putting together an extraordinarily rich collection which is now on display in this Palazzo. This House Museum is one of the finest cultural attractions on the island. The Collection is a unique and extraordinary treasure-trove of over 3,500 objects, made up of forty-five specific collections spread over 17 rooms of this house museum, which include paintings, silver, furniture, jewellery, Oriental rugs and armoury, as well as a remarkable library containing over 4,500 books, and some highly valuable manuscripts. The paintings collection includes a number of significant 17th century works including ones attributed to Mattia Preti, Jusepe de Ribera, Jakob-Ferdinand Voet, Charles Beale and Juriaen van Streeck. From the cafeteria on the terrace on the upper floor you can enjoy the magnificent views of Mdina and beyond.

Enjoy a scenic half-day tour of Malta and get fantastic views from the island’s highest point. Visit the historic Palazzo Falson in Mdina, and wander around Buskett Gardens. Your first stop is Palazzo Falson, a Palazzo built in the early 13th century, on the site of “La Rocca”, a building which was part of the defensive structure of Mdina in the Arab period (870–1091 AD), and further back to the Roman period prior to 870 AD. Next, drive to Dingli Cliffs, the highest point in Malta. The isolated Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene on the towering rocks makes for a charming landmark. Built in the 17th century, the chapel offers some of the most stunning views in Malta, including to the tiny uninhabited islet of Filfla. Your final stop will be Buskett Gardens in the fertile valley of Wied il-Luq at Siggiewi. At their best in spring, the gardens also offer shade from the harsh mid-summer sun and a quiet place for a walk in winter. Explore the beautiful gardens, located in the grounds of Verdala Palace, official residence of the President of Malta. During the scenic tour, you will also have a coffee break at Palazzo Falson, where you will have coffee and taste the Maltese Frolla.

”The silent City” or ”the Noble City” as it is called, Mdina looks like a town from ”One Thousand and One Nights”. The massive walls, the shady streets, and the side alleys with the medieval vibe made this former capital of Malta the perfect setting for some of the scenes of Game of Thrones. At St. Agatha's Chapel and St Peter's Church and Monastery, founded in the 15th century you will find the holy remains of Blessed Maria Adeodata Pisani, a sanctified local nun sanctified by Pope John Paul II in 2001. In the vicinity, you can also admire Casa Inguanez, home to one of the oldest aristocratic families who lived here since the 14th century. Listen to the story of how a French commander was killed from the balcony of the House of Notary Bezzina during the uprising against the French. We cannot forget about Palazzo Falson, an impressive medieval mansion and one of the main landmarks of the city, as well as Mdina’s Cathedral, supposedly built where the Roman governor welcomed St. Paul to Malta. Come along and visit this unique city to see the best that Mdina has to offer.

Meet your local guide and learn about the history and rich culture of the Mediterranean island of Malta. Discover splendid examples of medieval architecture, palaces adorned with Baroque decorations, noble residences, and wonderful gardens. The tour starts with a walking tour in Mdina. Make the first stop at Palazzo Falson. This palace is the second oldest surviving building in Mdina, dating back to the 13th century. Stop for a tea or coffee and enjoy spectacular views from the Fontanella Cafe' panoramic terrace. Continue your journey to visit the gardens of San Anton, the most beautiful botanical garden on the island. Find the chapel built by the Knights of St. John and the nearby Presidential Palace. Finally, stop at Naxxar to visit Palazzo Parisio, described as the Maltese Versailles for the beauty of its walled gardens.