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Casa Bernard: A Glimpse into Maltese Nobility

Step back in time at Casa Bernard, a beautifully restored 16th-century palazzo in Rabat, Malta, showcasing the island's rich cultural heritage.

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Casa Bernard, a 16th-century palazzo in Rabat, Malta, offers a captivating journey into the island's aristocratic past. This beautifully restored private home showcases a rich blend of architectural styles and historical artifacts, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the lives of Maltese nobility.

A brief summary to Casa Bernard

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a more relaxed experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the stories behind the art, architecture, and historical artifacts.
  • Don't miss the charming courtyard and walled garden, offering a peaceful escape.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Casa Bernard is located at 46 Triq San Pawl in Rabat, a short walk from the town center and key landmarks such as St. Paul's Church and the Roman Villa. From St. Paul's Church, walk east along Triq San Pawl; Casa Bernard will be on your right. The walk is generally easy and takes about 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus routes 50, 51, 52, 53, or 56 to Rabat. Alight at the 'Buzugrilla' bus stop, which is a short walk from Casa Bernard. Walk along Triq San Pawl, and you'll find Casa Bernard on your right. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2-€3.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Malta. A taxi ride from Valletta to Casa Bernard in Rabat typically costs between €20-€30 and takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic. From the airport, expect to pay around €25-€35.

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Discover more about Casa Bernard

Nestled in the heart of Rabat, Casa Bernard is a testament to Malta's rich cultural heritage. Originally a medieval watch tower built upon Roman foundations, it evolved into a double-fronted palazzo in the mid-16th century, with Baroque additions enhancing its charm. In 1723, Dr. Salvatore Bernard, physician to the Grand Master of Malta, resided here, giving the house its name. The Bernard family, a lineage of doctors, lived in the Casa until the second quarter of the 20th century. In 1993, Mr. and Mrs. Magri acquired the palazzo and began its loving restoration. Today, Casa Bernard is not a museum but a family home, showcasing authentic works meticulously preserved over generations. Guided tours, often led by the owners themselves, take you through the barrel-vaulted hallway, chapel, dining room, drawing rooms, library, and main bedroom, each filled with significant furniture, paintings, and objets d'art. The tour concludes with a visit to the courtyard and garden. Casa Bernard provides an enriching experience of the Maltese aristocratic way of life through the ages. The house won an award from Europa Nostra in 2006 for its restoration. Visitors are given explanations of the important pieces of furniture, paintings, silver, weaponry and curiosities in the collection.

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