Inquisitor's Palace: A Journey Through Maltese History

Step back in time at the Inquisitor's Palace, located in the heart of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Malta. This unique landmark is one of the few surviving palaces of its kind and the only one open to the public. For over two centuries, it served as the seat of the Maltese Inquisition, offering a glimpse into a complex period of Maltese history.Originally constructed as a courthouse known as the Castellania around 1530, the building was offered to the first Inquisitor, Mgr Pietro Dusina, in 1574. Over time, it was transformed into a Roman palazzo, reflecting the architectural tastes of its high-ranking residents. Successive inquisitors renovated the palace, resulting in a somewhat labyrinthine plan. The palace also features a small courtyard with a Gothic groin vault, a remnant of the original Castellania.Explore the palace's many rooms, including the courtroom, prison cells, and the Inquisitor's private chambers. The palace also houses the National Museum of Ethnography, displaying religious artifacts and offering insights into Maltese culture and traditions shaped by the Inquisition.The Inquisitor's Palace provides a comprehensive look at a significant chapter in Malta's past. It is a Grade 1 national monument, attesting to its cultural and historical importance.