Mtarfa, Mtarfa

Where is Mtarfa?

Mtarfa stands on a hill in the west of Malta, immediately next to Mdina and Rabat. It belongs to the Western District and overlooks the surrounding countryside, including the area toward Mosta and the central plain.

History of Mtarfa

Mtarfa developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a British garrison settlement, with barracks and a large military hospital serving the armed forces in Malta. The site is historically linked to medical research into Mediterranean (Malta) fever, brucellosis. After the British withdrawal the barracks and hospital buildings were converted to civilian use, including schooling and housing, and Mtarfa was established as its own locality in 2000.

What to see in Mtarfa

Mtarfa clock tower — the town's landmark, a relic of the military barracks. Former barracks & military hospital buildings — reused for civilian purposes. Views toward Mdina — from the hilltop setting beside the old capital.

Transport in Mtarfa

Mtarfa is served by Malta Public Transport bus routes, generally via Rabat and Mdina, connecting onward to Valletta and central Malta. There is no rail or ferry service. Local movement is mainly by bus or car.

Living in Mtarfa

Mtarfa is a quiet hilltop town next to the old capital, with a mix of former military and modern residential buildings. Assessments of cost of living and housing should be based on current local data rather than general impressions.

Official name

L-Imtarfa / Mtarfa

Island

Malta

District

Western District

Landmark

Mtarfa clock tower; former barracks & hospital

Transport

Bus routes via Rabat / Mdina