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Wignacourt Museum: A Glimpse into Malta's Soul

Discover Maltese history, art, and culture at the Wignacourt Museum, housed in a stunning Baroque building with Roman catacombs and WWII shelters.

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Housed in an 18th-century Baroque building in Rabat, Malta, the Wignacourt Museum offers a multifaceted journey through Maltese history, art, and culture. Named after Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, it showcases a diverse collection ranging from fine art and religious artifacts to Roman-era catacombs and WWII shelters.

A brief summary to The Wignacourt Museum

Local tips

  • Explore the underground levels to discover the Roman catacombs and WWII shelters for a unique historical perspective.
  • Visit St. Paul's Grotto, accessible through the museum, to see where St. Paul is believed to have stayed after his shipwreck.
  • Check for ongoing art exhibitions or events in the museum's courtyard to experience contemporary Maltese art.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's diverse collection and underground complex.
  • Consider purchasing the audio guide for a more immersive and informative experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Wignacourt Museum is located at 2 College Street in Rabat, a short walk from many points in Rabat and Mdina. From Mdina Gate, walk straight ahead, then turn right onto Pjazza San Pawl. Continue onto Triq San Pawl, then turn left onto Triq il-Kullegg. The museum will be on your left. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve Rabat. From Valletta, take bus routes 50, 51, 52, 53, or 56. From Buġibba/Qawra, take route X3. From Sliema and St Julian's, take route 202. Alight at the 'Rabat 1', 'Rabat 2', 'Rabat 3', or 'Rabat 4' bus stops. From the bus stop, walk towards the Parish Church of St Paul and follow the signs to the museum. A single bus fare costs €2-€3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Malta. A taxi from Valletta to Rabat typically costs around €20-€30 and takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber also operate in Malta. Ask the driver to drop you off near St Paul's Church in Rabat, from where the museum is a short walk.

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Discover more about The Wignacourt Museum

The Wignacourt Museum, located in Rabat, Malta, is more than just a museum; it's a journey through time. Originally built in 1749 as the residence for the Chaplains of the Knights of St. John, the Baroque building itself is a historical artifact. Named after Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, who ruled Malta from 1601-1622, the museum's collection spans various epochs of Maltese history. The museum's exhibits are spread across three levels, each offering a unique perspective. The main floor boasts an impressive art gallery featuring works by Mattia Preti, Antoine de Favray, and Francesco Zahra, among other European masters. Visitors can also admire antique silverware, sculptures, relics, coins, maps, and rare books, including a book written by King Henry VIII. A beautiful Baroque chapel, once used for private worship by the chaplains, is also a highlight. The underground level reveals a labyrinth of Punic, Roman, and early Christian hypogea, interconnected with a complex network of World War II-era air raid shelters. This subterranean world offers a glimpse into Malta's ancient past and its resilience during wartime. The museum is also linked to St. Paul's Grotto, believed to be where St. Paul the Apostle stayed after being shipwrecked in Malta in 60 A.D., adding a significant religious dimension to the site. The Wignacourt Museum isn't just a repository of artifacts; it's a living space that encourages contemporary art. The ground floor features a spacious courtyard and a café, providing a venue for local artists to showcase their work and host various artistic events. The museum's diverse collection and its connection to significant historical and religious sites make it a must-see destination for anyone seeking to understand Malta's rich heritage.

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