You heard of Versailles, The Schonbrunn and Windsor Castle… but have your heard of their tiny Malta cousin? It might not be the size of a small town and is not surrounded by a never-ending scenery of green. Still, the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta, or as it is know today, the Presidential Palace is equally as impressive.
When the Knights decided to build Valletta, they knew that if they wanted to be taken seriously by their fellow European monarchs, they needed to make sure that their capital city and their seat of power radiated affluence and beauty. That’s why they spared no expense in building the most beautiful palaces. Especially the one smack in the middle of the city, which was the residence and office of the Grand Master.
The Grand Master’s Palace building
Interestingly, the palace was once three separate buildings which already stood the same place. The Knights then decided to connect the properties into the building we see today. The architectural signature is a milieu of styles from renaissance to mannerist to baroque. This is a very common practice for edifices of such importance.
The stately façade is like nothing else on the island. Its iconic massive green balconies, the two imposing gates, and its off pattern of large windows overlooking Valletta’s largest square are a familiar sight.
Inside the Grand Master’s Palace
Entering the palace, from one of the two doors, you will find yourself in one of two separate courtyards. To decide which is more impressive is impossible.
A baroque colonnade of arches surrounds the courtyard on the left. The courtyard on the left is home to a beautiful Mediterranean orchard. Try to visit at noon, and watch out for the memorable display by the bronze figures that make up the clock tower.
Climbing up the spiral marble staircase, you will enter the state rooms. Here the Grand Master would perform his duties. These great halls sport art by the finest artists the Knights’ deep pockets could get their hands on. Suffice to say, one notable name behind the frescos that depict the triumph of the Great Siege in some detail, is Matteo Perez d’Aleccio. He was student from Michelangelo’s studio! No limits for these wealthy Knights!
The corridors also put on a show of their own with their intricate trompe-l’œils. These provide clever optical illusions that were hugely popular at the time.
Multiple functions
Over the centuries, the palace has served various functions. The Knights used it as their administrative centre and the seat of the Grand Master’s authority. The Brits housed their Governors in it. And after Malta became a republic in 1974, it became the office of the President.
Up until a new Parliament building was inaugurated in 2015, the Grand Master’s palace also housed Parliament. The interior modernist set up of desks and benches will make any 70s or 80s kid nostalgic. Those black and white TV Budget Day broadcasts will never fade away!
On guard!
The palace today also houses the Knights armoury, featuring the finest collection of military gear the Order of St John prided itself of.
The Grand Master’s Palace is certainly worth a visit while in Valletta, as it effectively distils the essence of the Order of St John and all it stood for.
