Living in Cospicua, Malta — Area Guide for Buyers

Key facts

Also called: Bormla, Città Cospicua
Fortifications: Santa Margherita and Cottonera Lines
Church: Collegiate church of the Immaculate Conception
Homes: Townhouses, apartments, houses of character

Cospicua — Bormla — is the largest of the Three Cities on the Grand Harbour, historically home to the dockyard workers. It is enclosed by the Santa Margherita and Cottonera Lines, among the most extensive fortifications built by the Knights.

Landmarks

The collegiate church of the Immaculate Conception, consecrated in 1732.
The regenerated Dock No. 1 waterfront, with promenades, cafés and the campus of the American University of Malta.
The bastions and gates of the Cottonera Lines.

Property in Cospicua

Townhouses and houses of character, many awaiting restoration.
Apartments, including some on the waterfront.

Who it suits

Buyers looking for value and character in a town with a strong local identity, and restorers prepared to take on an older property. See the Three Cities guide and buying a house of character.

Questions & answers

Is Cospicua being regenerated?

Yes. The former dockyard area at Dock No. 1 has been turned into a landscaped waterfront of promenades and cafés, and the American University of Malta has had a campus there since 2017.

Is Cospicua good value?

Generally, yes — historic homes in Cospicua cost less than in Birgu or Senglea, which attracts buyers willing to restore.

Can foreigners buy property in Cospicua?

Yes. EU citizens buying their main residence need no permit; non-EU buyers, and EU citizens buying a second home, normally need an AIP permit unless the property is in a Special Designated Area. See our AIP permit guide.

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