Porte des grecs
The Enigmatic Porte des Grecs: Gateway to Mdina's Rich History
Greek's Gate: A Medieval Portal to Mdina's Past
Discover Mdina's Greek's Gate: a historic portal blending medieval origins with Baroque artistry, offering a unique glimpse into the Silent City.
The Greek's Gate, or *Bieb il-Griegi*, is one of Mdina's three entry points, offering a glimpse into the city's medieval origins. Originally constructed in the medieval period, it was later enhanced with a Baroque facade in 1724. This gate once served as the exclusive entrance for slaves and is named after the Greek community that resided nearby.
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A brief summary to Greek's Gate
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Mdina, MT
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Getting There
Walking
From Mdina Gate, walk south along the city walls. Pass the Mdina Ditch Gardens entrance on your left. Continue following the road as it curves around the southwest corner of the city. The Greek's Gate will be visible on your left, marked by its Baroque portal. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the gate.
Public Transport
From the Rabat bus terminus, walk approximately 5-10 minutes south. Follow the road along the Mdina fortifications. The Greek's Gate is located on the southwest side of the city, past the Mdina Ditch Gardens entrance. A single bus fare is approximately €2.50 during the summer.
Taxi
From anywhere in Malta, a taxi can take you to the outskirts of Mdina. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Greek's Gate on the southwest side of the city. From Valletta, a taxi ride to Mdina typically costs between €30-€40. From Sliema, a taxi should cost around €12.
Parking
There is limited parking outside Mdina's city walls. One parking area is located near the Greek's Gate. Parking is often free, but a tip to the parking attendant is customary. Be aware that spaces fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
Local tips
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Note the blend of architectural styles; the gate's exterior showcases Baroque influences from the 18th century, while the interior retains its original medieval design.
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Explore the small square, Piazza dei Greci, just inside the gate, which connects to different parts of Mdina and features modest and noble houses.
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Look for the mural and oil paintings on the upper part of the Greek's Gate, including depictions of the Virgin and Child with St. Anne and the Blessed Trinity.
Discover more about Greek's Gate
The Greek's Gate, also known as *Bieb il-Griegi* in Maltese, is a captivating historical landmark in Mdina, Malta. Unlike the main Mdina Gate, the Greek's Gate offers a more subtle entry into the Silent City, steeped in history and architectural evolution.Originally built during the medieval period, the gate was significantly modified in 1724 when Charles François de Mondion, a military engineer and architect, added a Baroque-style portal. Despite this addition, the rear part of the gate retains its original medieval form, providing a rare glimpse into Mdina's ancient walls. The gate was once flanked by a D-shaped wall tower, enhancing its defensive capabilities. It is believed the tower still exists, buried behind Mondion's ramparts.Historically, the Greek's Gate served as the designated entrance for slaves into Mdina. It also owes its name to the Greek community that once lived in this area of the city. Above the gate, on the interior side, a painting of St. Nicholas breaking bread can be seen, reflecting the Maltese tradition of hospitality. Today, the Greek's Gate is recognized as a Grade 1 national monument, holding a prominent position in the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands. Entering through the gate leads to Piazza dei Greci, a small quadrangle connecting to various arteries within the city.
A brief summary to Greek's Gate
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