Collachio: Birgu's Historic Heart

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Explore Collachio in Birgu: a historic neighborhood showcasing Malta's rich heritage and the legacy of the Knights of St. John.

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Collachio

The Collachio in Birgu (Vittoriosa) is the oldest part of the city, dating back to the arrival of the Knights of St. John in 1530. This area housed the Knights' main buildings and residences, showcasing a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Wander through its narrow, winding streets to experience the rich history and culture of this ancient maritime city.

A brief summary to Collachio

19 Triq Hilda Tabone, Birgu, MT

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and fewer crowds.
Combine your visit with a tour of nearby historical sites like the Inquisitor's Palace and Fort St. Angelo for a deeper understanding of the area.
Take time to explore the surrounding streets for hidden gems, local shops, and quaint cafes.

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Getting There

Walking

If you're already in Birgu, Collachio is easily accessible on foot. From the center of Birgu, head towards Triq Hilda Tabone. Walk straight for about 10 minutes; you will see Collachio at 19 Triq Hilda Tabone on your left. This route is pedestrian-friendly and allows you to enjoy the historical architecture of Birgu along the way.
Public Transport

From Valletta, you can take a ferry or bus to Birgu. * **Ferry:** Take the ferry from Lascaris Wharf in Valletta to Cospicua Dockyard Creek. From the dock, it's a short walk to Collachio. The ferry costs €2 and takes about 15 minutes. * **Bus:** Take bus number 2, 3, or 4 from the Valletta Bus Terminus. Get off at the bus stop in Birgu and walk towards Triq Hilda Tabone. The bus journey takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. A single journey bus ticket costs €2.50 during the summer.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available from various points in Malta, including Valletta. A taxi ride from Valletta to Birgu typically takes around 13 minutes and costs approximately €16-€20. From the taxi drop-off point in Birgu, walk towards Triq Hilda Tabone to reach Collachio.

Discover more about Collachio

Collachio, located in Birgu (also known as Vittoriosa), is a historically significant area that dates back to the arrival of the Knights of St. John in Malta in 1530. The Knights chose Birgu as their base and focused their building efforts in this particular zone, which became known as the Collachio. This area was intended to be their private zone, mirroring their time in Rhodes, but it was impossible to restrict access completely.The Collachio is characterized by its narrow, winding streets and a mix of architectural styles, including medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque influences. As you explore the area, you'll find a variety of historic buildings, such as the Auberge d'Angleterre and the Auberge de France, which were built by the Knights and are still standing today. These auberges served as headquarters for the different Langues, or divisions, within the Order.Originally, the Grand Master's Palace, the Conventual Church, the Sacra Infermeria (hospital), and other important buildings were located within the Collachio. However, after the Order moved its Convent to Valletta in 1581, many of these buildings were repurposed. For example, the Sacra Infermeria became the Monastery of St. Scholastica, and the Castellenia became the seat of the Roman Inquisition.Today, the Collachio is a vibrant part of Birgu, attracting tourists with its historical charm and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Inquisitor's Palace, the Malta Maritime Museum, and Fort St. Angelo, all of which are located within or near the Collachio. The area also offers stunning views of the harbor and the surrounding architectural marvels.