Auberge de Castille: Valletta's Baroque Masterpiece

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Valletta's iconic Baroque landmark, the Auberge de Castille, houses Malta's Prime Minister's office with stunning Grand Harbour views.

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Il-Berġa ta' Kastilja

The Auberge de Castille, located in Valletta, Malta, is an iconic Baroque building that currently houses the Office of the Prime Minister. Originally built for the Knights of Castile, León, and Portugal, it stands as a testament to the island's rich history and architectural grandeur.

A brief summary to Il-Berġa ta' Kastilja

VGW6+8FJ, Merchants St, Valletta, MT
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Local tips

Visit during the day to appreciate the intricate details of the Baroque architecture and the commanding views from Pjazza Kastilja.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Upper Barrakka Gardens for panoramic views of the Grand Harbour.
Take a stroll around Pjazza Kastilja to see other prominent buildings such as the Malta Stock Exchange and the Valletta Post Office.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Il-Berġa ta' Kastilja

The Majestic Il-Berġa ta' Kastilja: Valletta's Historic Gem

Auberge de Castille (Castile)

Auberge de Castille: A Glimpse into Malta's Rich History

Paul Boffa Monument

Paul Boffa Monument: A Tribute to Malta's Legacy

Getting There

Walking

The Auberge de Castille is located in Valletta's city center and is easily accessible on foot from most points within the city. From the City Gate, head straight along Republic Street, then turn right onto Merchants Street. Continue uphill towards Pjazza Kastilja. The Auberge will be on your left, overlooking the square.
Public Transport

Valletta is well-served by Malta's public bus system. Numerous bus routes terminate at the Valletta Bus Terminal, just outside the City Gate. From the terminal, walk along Republic Street, turn right onto Merchants Street, and continue uphill to Pjazza Kastilja. A single journey bus ticket costs €2.50 during the summer (mid-June to mid-October) and is valid for two hours, allowing transfers. Consider purchasing a Tallinja Card for discounted fares if you plan to use public transport frequently.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Malta, including at the Malta International Airport and in Valletta. A taxi from the airport to Valletta costs approximately €17. A short taxi ride within Valletta should cost around €8-€23, depending on the distance and time of day. Taxi fares in Valletta have a base fee of €8, and then €3 per kilometer. Note that prices may vary depending on the taxi service used.

Discover more about Il-Berġa ta' Kastilja

The Auberge de Castille, formally known as the Auberge de Castille, León and Portugal, is one of Valletta's most significant landmarks. Standing at the highest point of the city, in Pjazza Kastilja, it offers commanding views of the Grand Harbour. Constructed between 1571 and 1574, the Auberge was designed by the Maltese architect Ġlormu Cassar to accommodate the Knights of Castile, León, and Portugal. These knights represented one of the most powerful 'languages' or divisions within the Order of St. John. The Auberge underwent a complete reconstruction between 1741 and 1745 during the reign of Grand Master Manuel Pinto da Fonseca. The project was led by another Maltese architect, Andrea Belli, who transformed the building into the Baroque style seen today. The facade is adorned with the coats of arms of Castile, León, and Portugal, as well as Manuel Pinto's personal coat of arms and a bust of the Grand Master. Throughout its history, the Auberge de Castille has played a central role in Malta's administration. During the French occupation, it served as a headquarters for officials. Later, under British rule, it was used as the headquarters of the British Army in Malta from 1859 to 1970. In 1972, the Auberge became the office of the Prime Minister of Malta, a role it continues to fulfill today. The Cabinet of Ministers also meets here, making it the center of the country's public administration.