Mdina, L-Imdina

Where is Mdina?

Mdina stands on a hilltop in the centre of the main island of Malta, within the Western District, giving wide views across the surrounding countryside. It is immediately adjoined by the town of Rabat, which lies outside its walls, and is close to Mtarfa, Attard and Mosta.

History of Mdina

The site of Mdina has been settled since antiquity; it was inhabited by the Phoenicians and later formed part of the Roman city known as Melita. Its present name derives from the Arabic "medina" (walled city), dating from the period of Arab rule. Mdina served as Malta's capital through the medieval period until the Order of St John established its new capital at Valletta in the 16th century. After the 1693 earthquake that struck the region, several buildings were rebuilt in the Baroque style, including St Paul's Cathedral, designed by the Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà.

What to see in Mdina

St Paul's Cathedral — the Baroque cathedral rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake to designs by Lorenzo Gafà. Mdina Gate and the bastion walls — the fortified main gate and ramparts, with panoramic views over central Malta. Vilhena Palace — an 18th-century palace that houses the National Museum of Natural History. Palazzo Falson — a medieval townhouse museum in the old city. The historic streets — narrow lanes and noble palaces forming one of Europe's better-preserved walled towns.

Transport in Mdina

The walled city of Mdina is essentially car-free, with general vehicle access restricted to residents and limited services. Visitors reach it by bus to the Rabat/Mdina area, served by Malta Public Transport, and enter on foot through Mdina Gate. Parking is available outside the walls in Rabat.

Living in Mdina

Mdina is a small, strictly conserved historic city with a very limited resident population and protected building stock. It offers an exceptionally quiet, traffic-free environment within historic walls; practical considerations such as vehicle access and services differ from ordinary towns. Cost and housing assessments should be based on current market data.

Official name

L-Imdina / Mdina

Island

Malta

District

Western District

Status

Former capital of Malta

Known for

Fortified old city, Baroque architecture

Transport

Car-free core, buses via Rabat