Mdina, Malta

Mdina was the old capital of Malta and dates back to the 8th century BC when it was founded by Phoenician settlers. If you wish to read more about the history of the city, click here.

Today, Mdina (meaning ‘the place of religion’ in Arabic upon which Maltese is some 50% based) has approximately 300 residents who live normal everyday lives in their historical city. St Paul’s Cathedral (or the Metropolitan Cathedral) is situated in the city centre and has become a popular place for non-Mdina Maltese residents to have their weddings. Fans of GOT will maybe recognise some of the city sights.

There are some 16 coffee shops or restaurants within the fortified city, according to the owner of the restaurant (called Bacchus) where MB had lunch. The traditional Maltese lunch of ‘spaghetti with rabbit’ consumed by MB was rather tasty. For the information of followers, rabbit stew is the national dish, but there are some variations on the theme.

Herewith, a flavour of Mdina: