Xara Palace, Mdina
The Xara Palace was built in the late 17th century during the reign of Grand Master Gregorio Carafa, a prominent figure in the history of the Knights of St. John. It was constructed as a private residence for the Moscati family, who were of noble descent. The family's wealth and influence were reflected in the palatial design and opulence of the building.
Over the following centuries, the ownership of the palace changed hands multiple times as it passed from one noble family to another. Each new owner brought their unique style and taste, resulting in various renovations and expansions. Despite these changes, the original architecture and historical significance of the building were preserved.
In the 19th century, during British rule over Malta, the palace underwent a transformation and was briefly used as a hotel known as the "Hotel de la Ville." However, it wasn't until the late 20th century that the building was extensively restored and converted into the luxurious boutique hotel we know today as the Xara Palace.
Throughout its existence as a hotel, the Xara Palace has welcomed numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and discerning travelers from around the world, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination in Malta. Its gourmet restaurant, De Mondion, has received critical acclaim and earned prestigious awards for its exceptional cuisine and enchanting ambiance.
By repurposing the Palazzo Moscati and transforming it into the Xara Palace, the hotel's owners and management have not only preserved a historically significant building but also contributed to the cultural heritage of Malta. The Xara Palace stands as a living testament to the island's past, providing a luxurious retreat where guests can immerse themselves in the rich history and timeless beauty of Mdina.
Over the following centuries, the ownership of the palace changed hands multiple times as it passed from one noble family to another. Each new owner brought their unique style and taste, resulting in various renovations and expansions. Despite these changes, the original architecture and historical significance of the building were preserved.
In the 19th century, during British rule over Malta, the palace underwent a transformation and was briefly used as a hotel known as the "Hotel de la Ville." However, it wasn't until the late 20th century that the building was extensively restored and converted into the luxurious boutique hotel we know today as the Xara Palace.
Throughout its existence as a hotel, the Xara Palace has welcomed numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and discerning travelers from around the world, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination in Malta. Its gourmet restaurant, De Mondion, has received critical acclaim and earned prestigious awards for its exceptional cuisine and enchanting ambiance.
By repurposing the Palazzo Moscati and transforming it into the Xara Palace, the hotel's owners and management have not only preserved a historically significant building but also contributed to the cultural heritage of Malta. The Xara Palace stands as a living testament to the island's past, providing a luxurious retreat where guests can immerse themselves in the rich history and timeless beauty of Mdina.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Mdina. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Xara Palace on Map
Sight Name: Xara Palace
Sight Location: Mdina, Malta (See walking tours in Mdina)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Sight Location: Mdina, Malta (See walking tours in Mdina)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Nearby Sights
Walking Tours in Mdina, Malta
Create Your Own Walk in Mdina
Creating your own self-guided walk in Mdina is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Mdina Introduction Walking Tour
A picturesque walled city in the heart of Malta, Mdina is a true gem of the Mediterranean, perched atop a hill overlooking much of the country.
Mdina’s history spans almost 3,000 years, making it one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Originally settled by the Phoenicians around the 8th century BC, it has been inhabited by various civilisations, including the Romans,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.8 Km or 0.5 Miles
Mdina’s history spans almost 3,000 years, making it one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Originally settled by the Phoenicians around the 8th century BC, it has been inhabited by various civilisations, including the Romans,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.8 Km or 0.5 Miles
Rabat Walking Tour
In ancient times, the city of Melite, the precursor of present-day Mdina and Rabat, was considerably larger than Mdina is today. During the period of Arab rule in Malta, the settlement was reduced in size and divided into two distinct areas: the fortified city of Mdina and the suburb that developed outside its walls.
Rabat’s name derives directly from the Arabic word for “suburb” or... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.6 Km or 0.4 Miles
Rabat’s name derives directly from the Arabic word for “suburb” or... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.6 Km or 0.4 Miles












