My Adventures 3: Triton Fountain

On Friday the 29th August 2025 we woke up in our Hotel in Bugibba and after breakfast we made our way to the Bus Station to catch a bus to Valletta. After about an hour we were entering Valletta.

As we entered we saw an old vintage bus that used to serve Malta but is now a private tour bus.

Once off the bus we come across the Triton Fountain just across from the bus station.

Located just outside the City Gate of Valletta, Triton’s Fountain is one of the first landmarks that tourists visiting the capital will stop to take a picture of. The statue consists of three bronze mythological Tritons (gods of the sea) each of which look towards the entrance of the city.

Two of the three statues are sitting while one Triton is kneeling whilst all balancing on a seaweed base. Their posture denotes strength and virility and the water jets were designed to give a sense of movement to the piece.

The original call to design this fountain was through a competition hosted by the Government of Malta, whereby the winning design entrant would receive £100. The winning design was entitled ‘Triton’ and was submitted by Maltese sculptor Vincent Apap. Work on the fountain commenced in 1955 and was first turned on on the 16th May 1959. The piece was restored and inaugurated in 2018 by Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.

The monument was given a Grade 1 property title by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority in 2012.

We walk on pass the fountain and through the walls to the city via The City Gate.

The fortifications of Valletta are a series of defensive walls and other fortifications which surround Valletta, the capital city of Malta. The first fortification to be built was Fort Saint Elmo in 1552, but the fortifications of the city proper began to be built in 1566 when it was founded by Grand Master Jean de Valette. Modifications were made throughout the following centuries, with the last major addition being Fort Lascaris which was completed in 1856. Most of the fortifications remain largely intact today. There about 5km of wall surrounding Valetta, the direct reason for the wall was of course the Great Siege of 1565 from the Ottoman invasion.

We walk on down Republic Street, the main stretch through the city.

Valletta is the capital and largest city of the Mediterranean island nation of Malta, founded in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John. Known for its fortified city, Baroque architecture, and historical significance, Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe's smallest capitals. Key attractions include St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and the Grandmaster's Palace, all showcasing the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

The Courts of Justice building is a courthouse located in Republic Street, Valletta, Malta. It was built in the neoclassical style between 1965 and 1971 on the site of Auberge d'Auvergne, which had been destroyed by aerial bombardment during World War II.

We stop for coffee and a snack at a bakery on St Lucia Street and outside on the tables near St Johns Co Cathedral.

We reach St George's Square.

Described as the heart of the Capital, St George’s Square is Valletta’s largest and most prominent square. Dating back to the 17th century, it has witnessed some of the most notable occasions in the Island’s history including royal visits, victory celebrations and even the presentation of the George Cross in 1942.

Situated in front of the magnificent Grandmaster’s Palace, the square is also known as Palace Square. In addition to the Palace, it is flanked by the Casa Dei Conti (the Order of St John’s treasury), the Main Guard Building, and the Hostel de Verdelin, a palace which now houses a police station.

Though its appearance may have altered with the times, it has remained the very epicentre of city life and today serves as a ‘people’s square’. A hub of vibrant activity, it is the regular host of exhibitions and festivals, and the setting of the monthly Changing of the Guard ceremony.

We chose not to pay the fee to enter the Grandmasters Palace, as we wasn't too interested in seeing inside.

Grand Master’s Palace is the first building to be constructed by the Knights of St John in the new capital city and enlarged over the years, the Palace is a state within an edifice. During the British period, it served as the Governor’s Palace and was the seat of Malta’s first constitutional parliament in 1921. Presently, the Palace is the seat of the Office of the President of Malta.

Now granting access to over eighty-five percent of the building’s footprint, the overhauled Grand Master’s Palace showcases the rediscovered Uccelliera, the Piano Nobile corridors, and the meticulously restored State Rooms, including the Grand Master’s Study/Sitting Room, the Throne Room, Pages’ Room, and the Ambassadors’ Room.

Among the distinguished collections in the State Rooms, visitors may enjoy the most comprehensive visual narrative of the Great Siege of 1565 painted by Matteo Perez d’Aleccio, and the late 18th century Baroque illusionistic ceiling paintings, which reflect the pageantry and grandeur of the Grand Masters who indulged in imitating the great aristocratic courts of Europe.

Part of the Palace’s restoration entailed the reinstatement of the historic Armoury in its original hall (the former Parliament Chamber). Showcasing the opulence of the Order of St John – fierce defender of the Catholic faith against the attacks of the Ottoman Empire – the Armoury collection is considered as one of the best in the world, and boasts the armour suits of Grand Masters Alof de Wignacourt and Jean de Valette, Ottoman armour and weapons, as well as a selection of artillery pieces.

At the end of Republic Street we see a City tour bus train for 5 euros each, so we jump on for the tour.

Its an little electric cart with music playing that reminded me of Mario Cart!!

We pass along St Elmos Bay and have views across the water to Sliema.

Sliema's Historic cathedrals, watchtowers, and forts spatter the area, while along the waterfront locals shop, dine, bar hop, or stroll along the promenade for views of the shimmering Mediterranean.

It heads up St Mark Street holding up the traffic beeping behind us.

View up V.A Vassalli

Named after Mikiel Anton Vassalli (5 March 1764 – 12 January 1829) was a Maltese writer, a philosopher, and a linguist who published important Maltese language books.

A prominent street known for its steep, stone steps that ascend the hilly terrain of the city. This street features traditional balconies and colourful shutters, creating a picturesque and historically charming urban landscape in the capital city.

Just yards up on our left is St Patricks with a view to Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Valletta.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a Carmelite Roman Catholic minor basilica dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, located in Valletta, Malta. It is one of the major churches of Valletta, and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes the entire city. The present church was constructed between 1958 and 1981 on the site of a late 16th century church which was destroyed during World War II.

Pope Leo XIII granted a Pontifical decree of canonical coronation towards its venerated Marian image of Our Lady of Carmel on 19 June 1880 through the Vatican Chapter. The coronation took place on 15 July 1881.

The present church was built to designs of the architect Ġużè Damato. Construction commenced on 30 April 1958, when the foundation stone was blessed by the Prior General. The building was completed on 15 June 1981, subsequently being blessed by Prior Provincial Manwel Gatt. The church's dome is slightly higher than the bell tower of the nearby Anglican St Paul's Pro-Cathedral, and it was reportedly deliberately designed in order to compete with it.

The church's interior was sculpted by Joseph Damato over a period of 19 years.

We head up Archbishop Street and pass St Pauls Cathedral.

St Paul’s Pro Cathedral is the main Church Of England church in Malta. It looks from the outside like someone has lifted it from London and plonked it in Valletta as it’s actually based on the design for St Martin In the Fields – a significant church in the British capital. It has a 60 metre tall tower, which can be seen all over Valletta and it’s an attractive building inside and out. The church is pretty much next door to Our Lady Of Mount Carmel Basilica, so you can see both places of worship at the same time. Without doubt, the Carmelite church is the most impressive, but there’s also beauty in St Paul’s simplicity.

The cathedral dates back 1839 when Queen Adelaide laid the foundation stone. The original building design was found to be unworkable though and construction had to start again in 1841. Although there are huge columns at the ‘front’, the main entrance is actually at the side of the building just to the right of the steps down to the Sliema ferry.

Independence Square, known as 'Pjazza Indipendenza', is a historically rich and culturally vibrant landmark in Valletta, Malta's capital city. The square stands as a testament to the island's journey towards independence and is a gathering place for both locals and tourists. Enclosed by stunning 16th-century architecture, the square features the iconic Parliament building and the majestic Royal Opera House ruins, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors. As you stroll through the square, you will be captivated by the beautiful fountains and meticulously tended gardens that add to its serene atmosphere.

Back on Archbishop Street we pass a water fountain below.

We pass Fort St Elmo, A star-shaped fort was constructed in 1552, by military engineer Pietro Prato, under the supervision of Knight Fra Leone Strozzi. By 1565 the fort had acquired a cavalier, a covertway, a terraille, and a ravelin which was hastily built in a few months.

Fort St Elmo received the brunt of the Ottomans’ forces, who besieged Malta in 1565. Against all odds, the small fort resisted for a month, surrendering on 23 June. The 17th and 18th centuries witnessed several additions, including barracks, church and a lighthouse. The whole fort was included within Valletta’s fortifications in 1689.Under British rule Fort St Elmo was extensively upgraded for new artillery and even played an important role in the defence of Malta during the Second World War. On 11 June 1940, Fort St Elmo suffered the first aerial bombardment on the islands. Its active role in sieges and battles made it ideal for the hosting of a National War Museum.

We end up back at the start, was it worth the 5 euros, not really but hey you get what ya pay for I guess ha ha!

We walk back down to the water front and back pass St Elmo Fort.

Originally intended as a war machine, the fort was built in a strategic location at the tip of the Sceberras peninsula to face and hold back the wrath of the Ottoman armada. Offering unobstructed panoramic views of the harbours and the surrounding towns and villages, this key position was already recognised and exploited during the Medieval period. Reference to a permanent watch-post at Santo Eramo can in fact, be found in the Militia Roster of 1417. Following a harsh Ottoman razzia in 1551, and various reports indicating a looming Ottoman siege, Grand Master De Homedes issued an order for the immediate erection of a fort.

We walk around Lower Bakarra and along Quarry Wharf.

We walk up pass Valletta Grand Harbour.

Across the water we can see the Three Cities, Vittoriosa,Senglea and Cospicua.

We reach the Valletta to Cospicua ferry and we pay our fee and board.

We disembark the ferry in Cospicua and walk up the road to Malta at War Museum with all the flags flying outside.

Malta at War Museum

This museum combines an attractive exhibition about the Second World War in Malta along with the viewing of an original wartime documentary.

We walk back the opposite direction and pass the Collegiate Church of the Immaculate Conception is a stunning parish church located in Cospicua, Malta. It offers breathtaking views of the renovated Dock 1 and is a must-visit during Lent and the days leading up to the feast of the Immaculate Conception in December. The church is well-maintained, devout, and popular among visitors. It's particularly beautiful when illuminated at night.

The original parish church stood on the location of the present church. It was built before the Great Siege of Malta of 1565. It became a parish in 1586. Because of the growing number of parishioners it was decided to enlarge the church. But by 1684 the church became too small thus the construction of the present church commenced.

The designs of the church are attributed to Vincenzo Casanova while those of the bell towers are attributed to Lorenzo Gafà. The church was finished around 1730. In 1822 the church was elevated to the status of a collegiate church.

The dome includes paintings of David, Ezekiel, Moses and Isaiah by Giuseppe Calì from 1884.

We wander up the road in the heat trying to find something of interest to see, I look at the maps, not much around.

We walk up to St Helen's Gate.

St. Helen's Gate , also known as Porta dei Mortari, is the main gate of the Santa Margherita Lines, located in Cospicua, Malta. It was built in the Baroque style in 1736 to designs of Charles François de Mondion, during the magistracy of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena.

Construction of the Santa Margherita Lines began in 1638, but works stopped in 1645 and were only resumed in 1715.St. Helen's Gate was built in 1736 to designs of the French architect Charles François de Mondion. The gate is located at the centre of St. Helen's Curtain, a stepped curtain wall between St. John Almoner and St. Helen's Bastions, and it served as the main entrance into the city of Cospicua.

We walk up Triq Wigi Rosato and pass some nice looking streets and homes.

We cross the dock and find DATE (Art cafe) for a drink and I desperately needed the toilet, still ill!

We rush back to the ferry to try and get back to Valletta in time to see the gun Salute. Only to find there's a wait for the ferry back! We eventually make it back to Valletta we take the Barraka lift up to the Saluting Battery.

Up top we see the soldiers cleaning the canons, I enquire with a man at the lift. Yep we had just missed the salute. Oh well !

The Saluting Battery is an artillery battery in Valletta, Malta. It was constructed in the 16th century by the Order of Saint John, on or near the site of an Ottoman battery from the Great Siege of Malta. The battery forms the lower tier of St. Peter & Paul Bastion of the Valletta Land Front, located below the Upper Barrakka Gardens and overlooking Fort St. Angelo and the rest of the Grand Harbour.

The Saluting Battery was mainly used for firing ceremonial gun salutes and signals marking the opening and closure of the city gates, but it also saw military use during the blockade of 1798–1800 and World War II. The battery remained an active military installation until its guns were removed by the British in 1954. It was restored and opened to the public in the early 21st century, and it is now equipped with eight working replicas of SBBL 32-pounders which fire gun signals daily, Mon - Sat, at 1200 and 1600.

We leave the Battery and walk out into the Upper Barrakka Gardens towards the city passing stalls selling local craft stuff and pass the Upper Barrakka Fountain.

We walk out of the gardens and pass the Auberge de Castille.

Taking pride of place at Valletta’s highest point, the Auberge de Castille sits at the top of the bastions overlooking Floriana and the Grand Harbour. It’s a splending building, majestic and dignified, and like many of the older buildings in the city, it bears the fingerprints of the knightly order that once called Malta its home.

The original building was built to house the knights from the language of Castile, Leon and Portugal in around 1574. Then, in the 1740s, Grand Master, Manuel Pinto da Fonseca decided the Order needed something a little more flamboyant, and had the building dismantled and rebuilt in the Spanish Baroque style.

Because Pinto paid for the majority of the redesign, his coat of arms features quite prominently throughout the building. However, there are nods to its original purpose, with the coats of arms of the Language of Spain and Portugal carved into the building’s facade.

Since 1972, the Auberge de Castille has served as the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta, and administrative headquarters of the Maltese government.

We walk pass the Jean De Vallette Monument.

Jean de Valette is, of course, the very same grandmaster that ordered the building of the capital and lent his name to that very same capital. So it’s only fitting that he should be honoured not only with his own square, but also with a monument.

We walk back down into the city trying to find some food, loads of restaurants but not feeling great just wanted a baguette or something light, Loads of restaurants, Bakeries were hard to find!

The Royal Opera House, also known as the Royal Theatre (Maltese: It-Teatru Rjal, Italian: Teatro Reale), was an opera house and performing arts venue in Valletta, Malta. It was designed by the English architect Edward Middleton Barry and was erected in 1866. In 1873 its interior was extensively damaged by fire but was eventually restored by 1877. The theatre received a direct hit from aerial bombing in 1942 during World War II. Prior to its destruction, it was one of the most beautiful and iconic buildings in Valletta. After several abandoned plans to rebuild the theatre, the ruins were redesigned by the Italian architect Renzo Piano and in 2013 it once again started functioning as a performance venue, called Pjazza Teatru Rjal.

We walk down Tris San Gwann and down the pretty steps with views to the sea beyond.

Valletta's 16th-century buildings were constructed by the Knights Hospitaller. The city was named after the Frenchman Jean Parisot de Valette, who succeeded in defending the island against an Ottoman invasion during the Great Siege of Malta. The city is Baroque in character, with elements of Mannerist, Neo-Classical and Modern architecture, though the Second World War left major scars on the city, particularly the destruction of the Royal Opera House. The city was officially recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980. The city has 320 monuments, all within an area of 0.55 square kilometres (0.21 sq mi), making it one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world. Sometimes called an "open-air museum", Valletta was chosen as the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Valletta was also listed as the sunniest city in Europe in 2016.

We walked up and down the steps on St Lucia's Street still looking for food.

33 Steps, St Lucia's Street

We walk back to the bakery we were at earlier in the day and got something to eat there.

We walk back down St Lucia's Street, it really is pretty here.

St. Lucia's Street in Valletta is a picturesque street steeped in history and character. This narrow, cobbled street exemplifies the architectural beauty of Malta, lined with traditional buildings, quaint shops, and local eateries. It serves as a pathway to several historical sites and landmarks, making it an essential part of the city's cultural landscape. The street reflects the rich heritage of Valletta, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's past while being vibrant with the life of modern-day Malta.

We walk down to the wall at the bottom of the steps with views to the Three Cities and the harbour.

We sit here for sometime soaking in the views wasting time for the sun to set so we can see Valletta alight at night.

We decide to walk on and back up to the battery to get the views from up there. It was a bit of a climb up.

Take note of Mel's cap this was probably the last time we saw it, think she left it on a bench at the battery, Shame she love that cap!

After waiting up there for a while the sun finally begins to set.

The city is noted for its fortifications, consisting of bastions, curtains and cavaliers, along with the beauty of its Baroque palaces, gardens and churches.

The building of a city on the Sciberras Peninsula had been proposed by the Order of Saint John as early as 1524. Back then, the only building on the peninsula was a small watchtower dedicated to Erasmus of Formia (Saint Elmo), which had been built in 1488.

There were fireworks over the Three Cities, no idea why?

How beautiful is it, lit up at night? I'd seen this view on Google and it was worth the wait to see it!

In 1552, the Aragonese watchtower was demolished and the larger Fort Saint Elmo was built in its place.

In the Great Siege of 1565, Fort Saint Elmo fell to the Ottomans, but the Order eventually won the siege with the help of Sicilian reinforcements. The victorious Grand Master, Jean de Valette, immediately set out to build a new fortified city on the Sciberras Peninsula to fortify the Order's position in Malta and bind the Knights to the island. The city took his name and was called La Valletta.

The Grand Master asked the European kings and princes for help, receiving a lot of assistance due to the increased fame of the Order after their victory in the Great Siege. Pope Pius V sent his military architect, Francesco Laparelli, to design the new city, while Philip II of Spain sent substantial monetary aid. The foundation stone of the city was laid by Grand Master de Valette on 28 March 1566. He placed the first stone in what later became Our Lady of Victories Church.

De Valette died from a stroke on 21 August 1568 at age 74 and never saw the completion of his city. Originally interred in the church of Our Lady of the Victories, his remains now rest in St. John's Co-Cathedral among the tombs of other Grand Masters of the Knights of Malta.

Francesco Laparelli was the city's principal designer and his plan departed from medieval Maltese architecture, which exhibited irregular winding streets and alleys. He designed the new city on a rectangular grid plan, and without any collacchio (an area restricted for important buildings). The streets were designed to be wide and straight, beginning centrally from the City Gate and ending at Fort Saint Elmo (which was rebuilt) overlooking the Mediterranean; certain bastions were built 47 metres (154 ft) high. His assistant was the Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar, who later oversaw the construction of the city himself after Laparelli's death in 1570.