Mdina (Citta Vecchia)

Mdina (Citta Vecchia) is part of the Tentative list of Malta in order to qualify for inclusion in the World Heritage List.
Mdina is a fortified urban settlement on a hill in the centre of Malta's main island. Mdina was founded in the 8th century BCE by Phoenician settlers and was the capital of Malta until the medieval period. The townscape is characterised by Baroque architecture, most notable the St Paul's Cathedral built between 1697 and 1702.
Map of Mdina (Citta Vecchia)
Load mapThe coordinates shown for all tentative sites were produced as a community effort. They are not official and may change on inscription.
Community Reviews
David
I have been to Malta several times, but only on this visit did I get to Mdina. I was absolutely amazed by the beauty and atmosphere of the place: it leaves other mediaeval walled towns, such as Carcassone, standing. Gorgeous, stylish and beautifully preserved, its a mystery why this lovely little gem of a city does not have world heritage status.
Clyde
This is one of my favourite places in Malta and now that the renovation works are ready even more so. The former capital city of Malta offers various fine buildings (especially those deriving from the Normans), a beautiful co-cathedral, great fortifications and it offers a spectacular panoramic view of the island. The imposing view of Mdina when driving from Mosta is captivating. If you're lucky enough to be in Malta in mid-March make sure to head to Mdina in the evening for some fine fireworks.
Els Slots

Mdina is the former capital of Malta, and located in the interior. After a couple of days in this country I have learned not to have too high expectations. Mdina turns out to be the number one highlight however. Despite large scale renovations going on, Mdina's atmosphere is chique, quiet (no cars!), clean and most of all enchanting. This walled city has a very Arabic feel, with its sober walls and splendid detailing in the doors and statues. There are also some fine palaces.
Community Likes
- : Ian Cade David Berlanda Daniel C-Hazard Roman Raab Martina Rúčková João Aender Eric PK Inigo Cia Thibault Magnien Caspar Dechmann Clyde Nan Stanimir Svein Elias Vernon Prieto Christine Schmit Mateusz Riccardo Quaranta J. Stevens CAN SARICA Christravelblog Kevin247 Mohboh Purrfect VLabhard Londonium WalGra Aidan Coohill Christoph Digits JobStopar Rodinia Astraftis Tarquinio_Superbo Doubanjiang Daniel R-F Sebasfhb Andersgrau8 StaziG Ih0000 Leafar98
- : Ralf Regele Argo Aspasia
Site Info
- Full Name
- Mdina (Citta Vecchia)
- Country
- Malta
- Added
- 1998
- Type
- Cultural
- Categories
- Urban landscape - Post-medieval European
- Link
- By ID
Site History
1998 Added to Tentative List
Site Links
Visitors
171 Community Members have visited.