Birgu Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Birgu

Birgu, also known as "Victorious City", is an ancient fortified town on the southern shore of the Grand Harbour in the South Eastern Region of Malta. It occupies a prominent piece of land, with Fort Saint Angelo crowning its apex and the town of Cospicua resting at its base.

The name "Birgu" traces its roots to the Arabic word "Borgo," meaning a small town. Over the years, Birgu's history has been entwined with maritime, trade, and military activities. Its cobblestone streets reverberate with echoes of the tales of knights, emperors, and explorers – Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Angevines, and Aragonese.

Before Valletta took the reins as the capital and primary city of Malta, Birgu served as the focal point for those seeking to control the Maltese archipelago. It was the headquarters of the Order of Saint John and effectively functioned as Malta's capital from 1530 to 1571. The town played a pivotal role during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. After the siege, its importance waned when the knights moved their seat to Valletta.

Birgu endured French occupation, followed by British rule, from 1800 to 1979, when the Royal Navy established its base here. During World War II, the town suffered heavy bombing, resulting in the loss of historic landmarks. In recent years, an agreement with the Sovereign Military Order of Malta has seen their return to Fort Saint Angelo, preserving Birgu's heritage.

The historic Vittoriosa Waterfront is one of the town's top tourist attractions. It contains the former Palace of the General of the Galleys and the Order of Saint John's treasury.

Saint Lawrence's Church, another notable site, was once the Conventual Church of the Order and is dedicated to Saint Lawrence of Rome, whose feast day is very popular among locals. Other notable churches in town include the Our Lady of Annunciation Church, run by the Dominican Order.

Birgu also contains five Inns (Auberges) of the Knights, including the Inn of France (Auberge de France) and the Inn of England (Auberge d'Angleterre), in which the latter is the former home of the English Knights of Saint John on the island.

Birgu is a special locality to visit, whether by day or night. You may take pleasure in simply walking around its immaculate, narrow streets, lovingly decorated with potted plants. However, if you're a history enthusiast, Birgu, where every corner breathes history, can offer you a lot. Come and discover the beauty and heritage of this charming Maltese town, and let its timeless tales leave an indelible mark on your heart!