Mdina otherwise known as the silent city is located in Rabat, the central part of the island. This walled city was the capital of Malta before the arrival of the knights in 1530.
Here are some facts about Mdina.
The city has more nicknames. Mdina is also known as Citta Nobile which means the noble city and Citta Vecchia, the old city.
Home of the nobles: Mdina was and still is the home of nobles. Some are descendants of the Spanish, Norman, Sicilian overlords who settled on the 12th century.
It receives 750,000 people per year: It is one of the most sought-after cities after Valletta. The city welcomes 750K a year all waiting to enjoy the splendour and beauty of the old city.
It’s has a small residential area. The silent city has between 200 to 300 residents living in it and cars are not allowed inside except for the residents who live there.
It’s old. The city might look modern because it’s so well kept but this city is ancient. Its been said it had been built in the bronze era when the Phoenicians were in Malta during the 8th century. But one really knows just how old!
It was nearly destroyed. This splendid, city had suffered damages after an earthquake in Sicily in 1693. Luckily, no civilians were injured at the time.
The Cathedral was destroyed. The beautiful cathedral standing in the middle of the city is not the original church. In the same earthquake we mentioned above, the original cathedral was severely damaged. It was dismantled and rebuilt to the one we see today. It was redesigned by Lorenzo Gafa and it’s known to be his masterpiece. Inside the church are the original items of the old cathedral.
It has its own football team. Mdina has its own football team. They call themselves the Mdina knights.
You have seen it before. And lastly in fun facts about Mdina believe it or not, you’ve probably seen this city and its magnificence, especially the entrance, in the famous tv show Game of Thrones. The façade in King’s Landing is actually yes, our beloved city. Unfortunately, it was only featured in the first season of the show.
For more stories about our history and Malta’s secret past, be sure to check out our group and private tours.