Inquisitor's Palace Travel Guide

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.