Birgu: The Jewel of Malta's Historic Seascape

• HelloBongu
  [bon-goo]
• GoodbyeĊaw
  [ch-aw]
• YesIva
  [ee-va]
• NoLe
  [leh]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yekk yoh-jbok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzi
  [skoo-zee]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [keef eent]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [tai-yeb. oo eent]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [tit-kel-lem bl-ing-lees]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [ma neef-heemsh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [nix-tee-ek ee-nara l-may-noo, yekk yoh-jbok]
• I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [ma nee-e-kolsh la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [nix-tee-ek in-hal-las, yekk yoh-jbok]

• Help!Għajni!
  [ay-nee]
• Go away!Mur!
  [moor]
• Call the Police!Ċempel il-Pulizija!
  [chem-pel il-poo-lee-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ċempel tabib!
  [chem-pel ta-beeb]
• I'm lostInkejt
  [ink-edge]
• I'm illJien morda
  [yeen mor-da]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq nixtri...
  [nix-tee-ek nish-tree]
• I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [k-ed na-ra beess]
• How much is it?Kemm huwa?
  [k-emm hoo-wa]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq sħiħ
  [dan hoo-wa wees-shi]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' toħroġ il-prezz?
  [tees-ta to-roj il-prezz]

• What time is it?Xi ħin huwa?
  [shee heen hoo-wa]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [hoo-wa l-ew-wel see-eha]
• Half past (10)Noqs l-ebda (10)
  [noks l-ed-da (10)]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [fil-goh-doo]
• AfternoonWara nofsinhar
  [wa-ra nof-sin-har]
• EveningFilgħaxija
  [fil-ga-shee-ya]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [il-bier-ah]
• TodayIllum
  [il-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
  [ada]
• 1Wahda
  [wa-hda]
• 2Tnejn
  [tnine]
• 3Tlieta
  [tlee-ta]
• 4Erba'
  [er-ba]
• 5Ħamsa
  [h-am-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Seb'a
  [seb-a]
• 8Tmienja
  [t-meen-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [dis-gha]
• 10Għaxra
  [ga-sra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [fayn hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [shee-noo l-ind-ir-eez]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turijni (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tees-ta too-ree-nee (fooq il-map-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta huwa l-bus li jmiss?
  [me-ta hoo-wa l-boos lee y-miss]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yett (al)]

Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, traces its roots back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Phoenician and Roman periods. Its strategic location on the Grand Harbour made it a vital port and trading hub for various civilizations that sought control over the Mediterranean.

In 1530, the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, driven from Rhodes, settled in Malta and chose Birgu as their initial stronghold. They fortified the city, constructing the impressive Fort St. Angelo and transforming Birgu into a powerful maritime defense center.

One of Birgu's most defining moments occurred during the Great Siege of 1565, when the Ottoman Empire launched a massive assault on the Maltese islands. The Knights, along with the Maltese, defended Birgu valiantly. The city held strong under relentless attacks, eventually leading to a decisive victory that marked a turning point in European history.

Following the Great Siege, Birgu was given the honorary title 'Città Vittoriosa' in recognition of its bravery and victory. The city's fortifications were further strengthened, and it became one of the three fortified cities, known collectively as the Three Cities, alongside Senglea and Cospicua.

In 1800, Malta voluntarily became part of the British Empire. Birgu's strategic importance continued as it became a key naval base for the Royal Navy. The city saw significant development during this period, with the construction of new military facilities and infrastructure.

During World War II, Birgu was heavily bombed due to its naval significance. Despite the destruction, the resilient spirit of its inhabitants shone through as they rebuilt their city. Today, Birgu is a picturesque historic town, celebrating its rich past while embracing modernity.

Birgu hosts several cultural events and festivals that reflect its vibrant history and traditions. The annual Birgufest, featuring candlelit streets, historical reenactments, and local cuisine, attracts visitors from around the world. The city's churches and museums, such as the Inquisitor's Palace, offer deep insights into its storied past.

Birgu, also known as Vittoriosa, is located in the southern part of Malta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), approximately 8 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to Birgu, which takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to Valletta and then transfer to another bus or ferry to Birgu.

Birgu is a compact city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. Public buses connect Birgu to other parts of Malta, including Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian's. For a scenic route, consider taking the ferry from Valletta to Birgu. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Renting a car is an option, but parking can be challenging in the narrow streets of Birgu.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and transactions in local markets. ATMs are available throughout Birgu, and currency exchange services can be found in Valletta.

Birgu is generally a safe destination for tourists. As with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Birgu. However, always stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Birgu and nearby areas. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available in Birgu for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonġu' (good morning in Maltese). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as pastizzi and ftira. Don’t refuse an offer of food or drink, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Birgu like a local, visit the weekly market held every Tuesday in the Main Square, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Maltese goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's rich history. Explore the narrow streets and alleyways to discover hidden gems and historical sites. Don’t miss the Birgu Festival held in October, which features historical reenactments, music, and local cuisine.