Grandmaster's Palace

Centre of power for 450 years

The Grandmaster's Palace occupies an entire block in the heart of Valletta, on St. George's Square. From 1571, successive Grand Masters of the Order of St. John resided here, followed by British governors, and since 1974 Malta's president has had offices here. It is one of the few palaces in Europe that has continuously served as the seat of a head of state for over four centuries.

The Armoury

Inside the palace runs the Corridor of the Great Siege, adorned with frescoes depicting episodes from the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. The Palace Armoury is one of Europe's largest collections of arms and armour: approximately 5,000 exhibits, including full ceremonial suits of knight armour, swords, halberds, muskets, and shields. Part of the armoury is open to tourists; the rest of the palace is sometimes closed for state functions.

The Throne Room and the tapestries

The Throne Room, also called the Hall of the Supreme Council, is where Grand Masters received ambassadors. The walls display the Les Teintures des Indes tapestries, woven at the Gobelins manufactory in Paris in the 18th century, depicting exotic tropical scenes. They are among the most valuable textiles of their kind in the world.

Practical tip: The Armoury costs EUR 10. State rooms may close without notice (presidential functions). Check Heritage Malta's website before visiting. Worth combining with St. John's Co-Cathedral (5 minutes' walk).