Mdina Gate
Mdina Gate things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Mdina Gate, also known as the Main Gate or the Vilhena Gate, is the main gate into the fortified city of Mdina, Malta. It was built in the Baroque style in 1724 to designs of Charles François de Mondion, during the magistracy of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena.
attractions: St Paul’s Catacombs, St Paul's Cathedral, Roman Villa, Basilica Kolleġġjata u Proto-Parroċċa ta' San Pawl, Palazzo Falson, The Mdina Dungeons Museum, The Knights Of Malta, The Wignacourt Museum, The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, Mdina Cathedral Museum, restaurants: Fontanella Tea Garden, Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden, Coogi's Pizzeria & Bistrot @ Palazzo Costanzo, Root 81, Grotto Tavern, The Fork and Cork Restaurant, The Medina Restaurant, STEP 15, The de Mondion Restaurant, The Golden Fork
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Description
Mdina Gate, also known as the Main Gate or the Vilhena Gate, is the main gate into the fortified city of Mdina, Malta. It was built in the Baroque style in 1724 to designs of Charles François de Mondion, during the magistracy of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena.
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Review for Malta Name: Malta Location: Mediterranean Sea Rating: ★★★★★ Review: Malta, an enchanting archipelago located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich heritage, Malta offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. One of the most striking features of Malta is its historical significance. The island is home to some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world, including the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, which date back to around 3600 BC. The capital city, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living museum filled with Baroque architecture, majestic cathedrals, and impressive fortifications built by the Knights of St. John. Walking through its narrow streets, visitors can explore historical landmarks such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster’s Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, all of which offer glimpses into Malta’s storied past. Malta’s natural beauty is equally captivating. The island’s rugged coastline is dotted with picturesque bays, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs. The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island is famous for its turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The island of Gozo, known for its tranquil countryside and charming villages, is ideal for hiking, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying a slower pace of life. The Azure Window, although now collapsed, remains a symbol of Malta’s stunning coastal scenery. Malta’s vibrant culture is another highlight. The island hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from religious traditions to contemporary arts. The Maltese people are warm and welcoming, and their unique blend of Mediterranean and British influences is reflected in the island’s cuisine, language, and lifestyle. Traditional Maltese dishes such as pastizzi (savory pastries), rabbit stew, and fresh seafood are must-tries for any visitor. Despite its small size, Malta offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, relax on beautiful beaches, enjoy water sports, or delve into the island’s rich history and culture. The island’s compactness also means that getting around is easy, whether by public transport, rental car, or even on foot in many areas. Pros: • Rich historical and cultural heritage • Stunning natural landscapes and clear waters • Vibrant festivals and welcoming locals • Delicious traditional cuisine • Easy to navigate and explore Cons: • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons • Limited public transportation options in some areas Overall: Malta is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its ancient landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant local life make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Valletta, diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, or savoring the island’s culinary delights, Malta promises an unforgettable experience.
Erdinc ElhanErdinc Elhan
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Mdina Gate, also called the Main Gate or Vilhena Gate, is the principal entrance to the fortified city of Mdina, Malta. Constructed in the Baroque style in 1724, it was designed by Charles François de Mondion during the tenure of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena. The city, originally named Maleth, was established by the Phoenicians around 700 BC. It later became part of the Roman Empire and was known as Melite. The ancient Punic-Roman city encompassed all of present-day Mdina and extended into part of Rabat. In the early medieval period, the city's size was reduced, possibly by the Byzantines or Arabs. By the 15th century, the city, now called Mdina, was protected by a system of double walls on its landward side, with the main entrance near the southeast corner, close to a tower known as the Turri Mastra. The Mdina Gate features a Baroque portal and a gatehouse superstructure. The portal is adorned with double pilasters, the coats of arms of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena and the city of Mdina, a trophy of arms, and a Latin inscription.
Ari ZingilliogluAri Zingillioglu
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Nestled in the hills of central #Malta lies the silent city of #Mdina, a #medieval fortified town with origins dating back over 4,000 years. #historic #oldtown Surrounded by imposing walls and a deep moat, this atmospheric city transports you back in time with its winding alleys, baroque architecture, and grand palaces. As Malta's former capital city, Mdina gives an enchanting glimpse into the island's rich history. Whether exploring by day or night, one walks away charmed by Mdina's #tranquil beauty and old-world charm. Can totally see why they filmed #GameOfThrones here. The city was partly rebuilt with Baroque style buildings after a big earthquake in the 17th century, giving it a mixture of #medieval and #Baroque style buildings. Apparently here are some of the most expensive #realestate in Malta. Only about 150 people live here. #mediteranean #malta🇲🇹 #saintpaul #saintjohn #traval #traveldiary #holiday #history #backpacking #europe #sunny #holiday #explore #europe #winterescape #architecture
KloudMancKloudManc
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This was our first stop in Malta. To actually see where some episodes of game of thrones was filmed was out of this world. It's actually making us watch game of thrones all over again. During this visit we stopped and talked to locals and our driver mentioned to us that people that actually live here are not able to sell or you cannot buy real estate within this city. The reason is these people are ancestors of the noble people and are not allowed to sell. This was just fantastic to hear. Please do it yourself a favor. Stop by and take all this and it is truly magnificent in its beauty. Take a full day. If they have some restaurants. Eat drink, take it all in. Take lots of pictures. These pictures will not do justice on the sheer beauty of this place
Jason WhelanJason Whelan
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We spent a half day at this place while visiting Malta. It is a historic area with small but picturesque lanes and buildings. We met a fan of the series "Game of Thrones." He mentioned that a number of scenes in the series were shot here. He was comparing scenes in the series with what he was seeing in front of him. He showed us a couple of scenes and corresponding locations. We took pictures of those spots. I must say that the place by itself is breathtaking. We couldn't stop taking pictures. There are a couple of restaurants in a courtyard. They have excellent food and location. We had lunch at one of the restaurants. The horse-drawn carriages manage to find their way into the area. They add to the charm of the place.
Yusuf OfficewalaYusuf Officewala
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Undeniably beautiful. Used as a location in GoT where there was a lot of sex and violence apparently. Didn't see much of that in the quaint streets but there were a lot of people, horses and carts. If you're enamered with the film noir 'The Maltese Falcon' you'll find an eponymous jewellery shop here. Excitedly did I enter looking for a least a facsimile of said Falcon, but alas I was to be disappointed. I took in the general atmosphere for a few hours whilst contemplating the collapse of the Azure arch, something which the locals accused the GoT producers of causing. Couldn't quite get the connection but apparently that's why the second series was filmed in Dubrovnik- a place with a very similar feel.
Martin FarrowMartin Farrow
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Nearby Attractions Of Mdina Gate
St Paul’s Catacombs
St Paul's Cathedral
Roman Villa
Basilica Kolleġġjata u Proto-Parroċċa ta' San Pawl
Palazzo Falson
The Mdina Dungeons Museum
The Knights Of Malta
The Wignacourt Museum
The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux
Mdina Cathedral Museum

St Paul’s Catacombs
4.3
(4.1K)Click for details

St Paul's Cathedral
4.6
(1.2K)Click for details

Roman Villa
4.2
(770)Click for details

Basilica Kolleġġjata u Proto-Parroċċa ta' San Pawl
4.6
(457)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Mdina Gate
Fontanella Tea Garden
Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden
Coogi's Pizzeria & Bistrot @ Palazzo Costanzo
Root 81
Grotto Tavern
The Fork and Cork Restaurant
The Medina Restaurant
STEP 15
The de Mondion Restaurant
The Golden Fork

Fontanella Tea Garden
4.3
(3.7K)$$
Click for details

Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden
4.5
(2K)$$
Click for details

Coogi's Pizzeria & Bistrot @ Palazzo Costanzo
4.6
(653)Click for details

Root 81
4.7
(323)Click for details
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