Inquisitor's Palace: A Journey Through Maltese History

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Explore the Inquisitor's Palace in Birgu, Malta: a unique journey through history, religion, and Maltese culture in a remarkable architectural gem.

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Inquisitor's Palace

The Inquisitor's Palace in Birgu, Malta, is a unique museum offering a glimpse into the lives of the Inquisitors who once resided there. Originally built as a courthouse in the 1530s, it later became the seat of the Maltese Inquisition from 1574 to 1798. Today, it stands as one of the few surviving palaces of its kind open to the public, showcasing both its history and the National Museum of Ethnography.

A brief summary to Inquisitor's Palace

Triq il-Mina, l-Kbira, Birgu, BRG 1023, MT
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Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the palace and the National Museum of Ethnography.
Visit during the week to avoid larger crowds.
Check the Heritage Malta website for any special events or temporary exhibitions.
Combine your visit with a walk around Birgu's historic streets and waterfront.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Valletta, take bus number 2, 3, or 4 from the Valletta Bus Terminus. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Get off at the 'Riche' bus stop, which is a short 2-minute walk to the Inquisitor's Palace. A single bus ticket costs €3.
Ferry

From Valletta, take the ferry from Lascaris Wharf to Cospicua Dockyard Creek. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes and costs €2. From the Cospicua Dockyard Creek, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the Inquisitor's Palace. Follow the waterfront promenade and then turn into the historic center of Birgu.
Walking

From the Birgu Waterfront, head north towards Fort St. Angelo. Before reaching the fort, turn right into the alley that will lead you to the other side of Birgu. Keep walking straight until you reach Inquisitor's Palace.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. A taxi from Valletta to Birgu will cost approximately €16-€20 and take around 15 minutes. From Malta International Airport to Birgu, a taxi will also cost approximately €16-€20 and take around 9 minutes.
Parking

If driving, follow signs to Il-Kottonera and the Birgu marina. There are parking areas just outside Birgu, including along the marina and in neighboring Bormla. Parking is also available at the edge of Birgu next to St Angelo. Note that some streets, like Triq San Lawrenz, have time limits. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €0.80 per hour.

Discover more about Inquisitor's Palace

Step back in time at the Inquisitor's Palace, a remarkable historical site in Birgu (Vittoriosa), Malta. This palace served as the seat of the Maltese Inquisition for over 200 years, offering a chilling yet fascinating look into this period of Maltese history.Originally constructed around 1530 as the Castellania, a civil law court, the building was offered to the first Inquisitor, Pietro Dusina, in 1574. Dusina transformed the building into what was then called the Palazzo del Sant'Officio. Over the centuries, successive Inquisitors altered the palace, reflecting their tastes and the prevailing Roman Baroque style. The palace is now a museum under the stewardship of Heritage Malta.Explore the Inquisitor's Palace and discover its multifaceted history. Wander through the domestic kitchen area, the elegant piano nobile with its official halls and private quarters, and the austere spaces of the Holy Office, including the tribunal chamber, torture chamber, and prison complex. The palace also houses the National Museum of Ethnography, displaying religious artifacts and exploring the impact of religion on Maltese culture.The Inquisitor's Palace is more than just a museum; it's a journey through time, offering insights into Maltese society, religion, and the lives of those who shaped the island's history. It stands as a reminder of a complex past and a testament to the enduring spirit of Malta.