Queen Victoria Statue, Valletta

Located in Republic Square, Valletta, the Queen Victoria Statue is a prominent historical landmark that commemorates the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887. Created by Sicilian artist Giuseppe Valenti, the statue was inaugurated on August 5, 1891, replacing a statue of António Manoel de Vilhena. The statue portrays Queen Victoria seated, adorned with a shawl of Maltese lace, acknowledging her appreciation for and efforts to revive the local lace-making industry.The statue is crafted from white marble, with the pedestal and steps constructed from grey stone. Bronze casts of the British and Maltese coats of arms embellish the monument. Over the years, the statue has been a focal point for public commemorations and has undergone restoration to address weathering and damage. Today, the square, though officially named Misraħ ir-Repubblika (Republic Square), is still commonly known as Pjazza Reġina (Queen's Square). The statue remains a significant landmark, surrounded by cafes and shops, and is a starting point for exploring Valletta's rich history.While the statue has been a subject of debate, with some viewing it as a remnant of colonialism, it continues to be a landmark that attracts tourists and locals alike.