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Mdina Gate: A Baroque Masterpiece
Step through time at Mdina Gate, the majestic Baroque entrance to Malta's Silent City, steeped in history and architectural grandeur.
The Mdina Gate, also known as the Vilhena Gate, is the main entrance to Mdina, Malta's 'Silent City'. Built in 1724 in the Baroque style, it's an architectural marvel that provides a glimpse into the city's rich history.
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A brief summary to Mdina Gate
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
VCM3+V9W, Mdina, MT
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Getting There
Walking
From the main bus station in Rabat, walk straight ahead through the park. The Mdina Gate will become visible after a few minutes. The walk is mostly flat and takes approximately 5 minutes.
Public Transport
Several bus routes connect Valletta to Rabat, including routes 50, 51, 52, 53, and 56. Route 53 is a direct option, taking approximately 30 minutes to reach Rabat. From the Rabat bus stop, it's a short walk to Mdina Gate. A single bus fare costs around €2-€3.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available from various points in Malta, including Valletta and Sliema. A taxi ride from Valletta to Mdina typically costs between €30-€40 and takes approximately 15 minutes. From Sliema, a taxi ride to Mdina should cost around €12.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and experience the tranquil atmosphere of Mdina.
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Wear comfortable shoes to explore the narrow, cobbled streets of Mdina.
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Check out the views from the city walls for panoramic vistas of the surrounding Maltese countryside.
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Visit during the Medieval Mdina Festival in April for reenactments, music, and traditional crafts.
Discover more about Mdina Gate
The Mdina Gate, also referred to as the Vilhena Gate, serves as the main entrance to the fortified city of Mdina. Mdina, with its origins dating back to Phoenician times around 700 BC, was once known as Maleth and later Melite under Roman rule. The city's strategic position high in the center of Malta led to its role as the island's capital during the Middle Ages.The current gate was constructed in 1724, designed by French architect Charles François de Mondion during the reign of Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena. The Baroque design includes double pilasters, the coats of arms of both Vilhena and Mdina, a trophy of arms, and a Latin inscription. The gate is adorned with statues of St. Paul, St. Publius, and St. Agatha, who are considered the patron saints of Malta.Notably, the Mdina Gate is located a few meters to the left of the original gate, which was walled up during the reconstruction. The gate has also gained recognition for its appearance in the HBO series 'Game of Thrones,' where it was used as a filming location for King's Landing. Today, the Mdina Gate is a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a step back in time as they enter the 'Silent City'.
A brief summary to Mdina Gate
Use Mdina Gate as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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