is surrounded by fortified walls and sits on top of one of the highest hills of Malta. Built-in Medieval times, much of its original architecture has been preserved and its narrow alleys tell tales of centuries of history and the various rulers that governed Malta.
The city was founded as Maleth around the 8th century BC by Phoenician settlers. It was later renamed Melite by the Romans. The Ancient Melite was larger than present-day Mdina, and it was reduced to its present size during the Byzantine or Arab occupation of Malta.
During the latter period, the city adopted its present name, which derives from the Arabic word medina.
Interesting facts about Mdina
Malta and Mdina underwent hard times. Malta’s nobility, which gathered inside the walls of Mdina for protection from piratical attacks, had to cater to the needs and administration of Malta. As a result of the courage shown by the inhabitants of Mdina , when they revolted against the injustices of Monroy, the island’s ruler, the King of Spain gave the title of Notabile to the city of L-Imdina.
throughout the Middle Ages, until the arrival of the Order of St. John, when Birgu became the administrative centre of the island. Mdina experienced a period of decline over the following centuries, although it saw a revival in the early 18th century.
Mdina is still confined within its walls and has a population of just under 300, but it is contiguous with the town of Rabat.
St Paul’s Cathedral – A masterpiece of 17th-century architecture, the Baroque church features grand Corinthian columns and a magnificent dome decorated in beautiful illustrations by celebrated artists such as Mattia Preti.
According to tradition, where the Cathedral is built today, a palace was originally built and occupied by the Roman Governor Publius, the one appointed by Saint Paul to be Malta’s first bishop.
St Agatha’s Crypt, Catacombs & Museum – One of the best sites in Mdina for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
Palazzo Falson – A museum of fine art and antiquities housed in a 13th-century palace, Palazzo Falson is a must-see. The medieval building, the second oldest in Mdina, contains an impressive collection of art and silver.
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