Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, is an area rich in culture and history. There’s no shortage of things to do or see. Here are the top 5 must-see sites.

1. Mdina – The old capital of Malta. A fortified city perched atop a high point with the town of Rabat at its’ feet. This once vibrant center of power in the area is now almost deserted, giving it the nickname “The Silent City”. Indeed there are only approximately 400 people left. But this only adds to the charm. Cars are not allowed in the city except by its’ citizens, so walking is the best mode of transportation. Don’t worry, it’s only about a 10 minute walk from one end to the other. The history and architecture are some of the best in the country making this now quaint fortress a must-see.

2. Valletta – The current capital of Malta and UNESCO world heritage site. While this may be the current capital, it won’t feel modern to most of us. The original 16th century architecture has been preserved wherever possible. Founded by the grandmaster of the Order of St. John, the city is best explored on foot. Valletta also offers some of the best shopping in the country, bringing many a welcome respite from the rigors touring and sightseeing.

Photo by Wendell on Flickr

3. St. Johns Co Cathedral – This 16th century Valletta cathedral may be uninspiring from the outside, but it is simply breathtaking on the inside. Built by one of the first grandmasters of the Knights Hospitaller, it is adorned with paintings by the master artist Caravaggio and the ceiling is a fresco by Mattia Preti. The marble floors are actually the tombs of the Knights’. It has been called one of the most beautiful floors in the world.

4. Fort St. Angelo – An ancient fort in the city of Vittoriosa, it has been standing since Roman times and possibly before. Jutting out on a peninsula, the fort provides a stunning contrast to the deep blue water that surrounds it. Though much of the fort is not open to the public, visitors can still walk around the premises if the gate is open. Sometimes you can have one of the caretakers open the gate even if it’s closed when you arrived. Unlike many of the attractions in the area, the fort was never restored which seems to only add to the attraction.

5. The Megalithic Temples of Malta – Another UNESCO world heritage site, these are widely believed to be the oldest free-standing structures in the world! You’ll find these temples on both the island of Malta and the island of Gozo. Built in the Bronze age, these temples represent a giant step in the maturation of civilization as we know it. No trip to Malta would be complete with touring at least one of these temples.

Photo by Chris Brown on Flickr

These 5 attractions are among the most well-known in Malta, but are by no means all there is to see. After all, the country is in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. There are plenty more historic places and buildings to see if you have the time and energy. If you ever get enough history then there are always places to soak up the sun and relax no matter where you are.

Leslie writes on his site at the Camino Adventures about Spain and pilgrimages.

Boat Photo by Andrea~S on FLickr