Background

Palazzo Ferreria: A Glimpse into Valletta's Past

Discover Palazzo Ferreria in Valletta: a historic palace blending Venetian Gothic style with Maltese architectural traditions, now a Grade 2 national monument.

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Palazzo Ferreria, also known as Palazzo Buttiġieġ-Francia, is a late 19th-century palace in Valletta, Malta, showcasing a blend of Venetian Gothic architecture with traditional Maltese timber balconies. Once a private residence, it now houses shops and government offices, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural evolution.

A brief summary to Palazzo Ferreria

  • VGW5+PX7, Valletta, MT

Local tips

  • Admire the unique timber balconies, a distinctive feature of Maltese architecture, which were first introduced to the island on this building.
  • Look for the coat of arms of the Buttigieg and Camilleri families on the facade, a reminder of the palace's origins.
  • Visit the shops located on the ground floor to experience the palace's blend of historical significance and modern use.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Palazzo Ferreria is centrally located on Republic Street in Valletta. From City Gate, walk straight down Republic Street; the palace will be on your right, opposite the ruins of the Royal Opera House. From the Upper Barrakka Gardens, head towards the main street (Republic Street) and follow it until you see the signs for Palazzo Ferreria. It is located just a few minutes' walk from the gardens.

  • Public Transport

    Valletta is the main terminus for Malta's public transport. From anywhere on the island, take a bus to Valletta Terminus. Upon arrival, walk towards Republic Street, passing the Triton Fountain. Continue straight, and Palazzo Ferreria will be on your right. Bus fares range from €2.00 in winter to €2.50 in summer for a single journey. A night single journey costs €3.00. Consider purchasing a Tallinja card for discounted fares.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. Request a taxi to Palazzo Ferreria, Republic Street, Valletta. Taxi fares in Malta are metered, with a base fare of €3.50 and additional charges per kilometer. A short trip within Valletta should cost around €12.50. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Palazzo Ferreria

Palazzo Ferreria, officially Palazzo Buttiġieġ-Francia, stands proudly near the entrance of Valletta, Malta, serving as a captivating landmark with a rich history. Constructed in the late 19th century (completed in 1876 or 1897) , the palace occupies the site of a former foundry of the Order of St. John, where the knights' armaments were once manufactured. The palace was commissioned by Giuseppe Buttigieg and his wife, Giovanna Camilleri, and later served as a dowry for their daughter Teresa, who married Colonel John Louis Francia. For a time, the palace was known as Palazzo Francia. The facade features the coat of arms of both the Buttiegieg and Camilleri families. Designed by architect Giuseppe Bonavia, who also designed the Lija Belvedere Tower and La Borsa , Palazzo Ferreria is an example of Venetian Gothic architecture, incorporating traditional Maltese timber balconies, a design element that later became widespread across the island. Bonavia introduced the colorful timber balconies. Palazzo Ferreria is the second-largest palace in Valletta after the Grandmaster's Palace. The Francia family resided here until 1947. During World War II, Valletta suffered significant damage, and the Labour government, led by Dom Mintoff, rented part of the palace for the Public Works Department to aid in the city's reconstruction. In 1979, the Francia family sold the palace to the government. Today, the lower levels of the palace house several shops, while the upper floors are used as government offices. The palace was restored in 2017.

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