This town served as Malta’s capital from Roman times until the arrival of the Knights of St John in Malta in 1530. It derives its name from the Arab period (870-1224). Today its architecture reflects especially the Baroque period and may be admired by all those who really want to experience Malta’s past. The small town ( Mdina )has a tiny population of some 300. More than private residences, are the numerous churches and museums.

But, more specifically, Mdina’s size is said to have been reduced by Malta’s Arab rulers, who added higher fortifications and a moat for greater protection of the city. The city’s appearance at that time must have been more like other Moorish fortresses found in Northern Africa. In fact, the very name ‘Mdina’ is a derivation from the Arabic ‘Medina’. But with the arrival of the Order of Saint John at Malta, its features were destined to change as the city was renovated and restored. Some buildings naturally date from before the Order’s arrival. One such building is Palazzo Falzon, built around the year 1233, as is suggested by the date on its façade. This palazzo is more commonly known as the Norman House owing to its architectural style. This was the place where the official reception was held in honour of Malta’s latest ruler, the newly arrived Grand Master Fra Philippe Villiers de l’Isle Adam. This function followed the public ceremony in which the Grand Master took oath to protect the Maltese Islands and the rights of his new subjects. Thereafter, the city was adorned with baroque buildings, amongst which were various Churches and Palaces.

Present day Mdina is known as the ‘Silent City’ as it allows limited access to traffic. Its unobstructed bastions, elegant palaces and quaint, narrow streets narrate volumes of historic accounts -- some legend, but mostly fact.