When the Knights of St John arrived in Malta, they made their base at Birgu, on a promontory in the Grand Harbour. With neighbouring Senglea and Cospicua, it became the Three Cities — a cluster of fortified towns that faced the Great Siege of 1565 before Valletta was built. Today they are among Malta’s most characterful places to live.
The three towns
| Town | Also known as | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Birgu | Vittoriosa | Fort St Angelo, the marina and a maze of historic lanes |
| Senglea | Isla | A narrow peninsula with the Gardjola lookout and waterfront homes |
| Cospicua | Bormla | The largest of the three, with grand churches and docks |
Homes
Buyers come for houses of character — stone façades, arches, courtyards and roof terraces with views across the harbour — and for waterfront apartments near the marina in Birgu. Many homes have been restored; many others offer the chance to restore one.
Why buyers choose the Three Cities
- Views across the Grand Harbour to Valletta.
- Character — among the best-preserved historic streets in Malta.
- Marina — berths and waterfront dining in Birgu.
- Value — historic homes here can offer more space than similar properties in Valletta or Sliema.
- Ferry to Valletta across the Grand Harbour.
What to check
Historic homes need careful checks — permits, roofs, beams, damp and heritage restrictions. Incentives for Urban Conservation Areas may apply. Read buying a house of character.
Everyday life
The Three Cities have their own shops, parish life and a strong community. St Edward’s College, an independent school offering IGCSE and the IB Diploma, is in the Cottonera area. Neighbouring Kalkara adds quiet creeks and waterfront homes.
