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Castellenia Valletta: A Baroque Masterpiece

Explore the historic Castellenia in Valletta, a Baroque masterpiece that once served as a courthouse and prison.

The Castellenia is a former courthouse and prison in Valletta, Malta, built by the Order of St. John in the Baroque style. Today, it houses the Ministry of Health and stands as a prominent landmark on Merchants Street.

A brief summary to Castellenia Valletta

  • VGX7+9WP, Merchants St, Valletta, MT

Local tips

  • Admire the Castellenia's ornate Baroque facade and marble centerpiece on Merchants Street.
  • Note that the building primarily serves as the Ministry of Health and is not always open to the public, except on special occasions.
  • Explore Merchants Street, one of Valletta's most scenic streets, where the Castellenia is located.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Castellenia is located on Merchants Street in Valletta. From City Gate, walk straight along Republic Street, then turn right onto Merchants Street. The Castellenia will be on your left. Walking from City Gate takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Valletta's main bus terminal is located just outside City Gate. From the terminal, walk straight through City Gate and onto Republic Street, then turn right onto Merchants Street. The Castellenia will be on your left. A single bus ride costs €1.50 in winter and €2.00 in summer. Alternatively, a 7-day Explore Card offers unlimited travel for €21.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Valletta. A short taxi ride within Valletta will typically cost around €12.50. Taxi fares generally start at €3.50, with additional charges per kilometer. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

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Discover more about Castellenia Valletta

The Castellenia, also known as the Castellania Palace, is a significant historical building in Valletta, Malta, located on Merchants Street. Originally built as a courthouse and prison between 1757 and 1760 by the Order of St. John, it now houses the country's Ministry of Health. The building stands on the site of an earlier courthouse constructed in 1572. The Castellenia was designed in the Baroque style by architect Francesco Zerafa and completed by Giuseppe Bonici. Its ornate facade, featuring an elaborate marble centerpiece, makes it a prominent landmark. Inside, the building once contained court halls, a chapel, prison cells, a statue of Lady Justice at the main staircase, and an ornate fountain in the courtyard. Throughout its history, the Castellenia has served various purposes. Initially, it was the main courthouse under the Order of Saint John and later under British rule. By the mid-19th century, the courts were moved to Auberge d'Auvergne due to space constraints. The building was then used as an exhibition center, a tenant house, and even a school. In 1895, it was converted into the head office of the Public Health Department. The Castellenia is considered an iconic building in Maltese architecture and a historical landmark in Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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