Valletta, Malta
Following the signs to the Lascaris War Rooms, we fully inteded to grab breakfast on the way. A few winding staircases brought us to them almost immediately. It was basically in our backyard. A dark, very large tunnel leads you to the entrance where you pick up an audio guide that directs you through the underground museum. We learned about Malta's part in WWII as they were in a strategic position being so close to the Axis power of Italy. The map room was the most interesting to me as well as the large strategy table for ship and air movements.
We had also bought tickets to the Upper Barracca Gardens just above. Climb those stairs again! This area is lovely. It has beautiful views, a central fountain and a patio to have a quick bite. At noon, we found space along the upper railing so we could watch them ceremoniously fire a cannon. The blast, sparks and smoke were awesome!
As we left the gardens, I noticed a horse drawn carriage just outside and asked if they give rides to Fort Elmo. It's a total tourist trap, but oh so much fun and in half an hour I saw every monument in Valletta.
After sharing the road with the regular traffic, we pulled aside and the driver let us out at the Fort. At first, I thought it was just a very expansive walk along the outer walls with history tid-bits in each alcove. So, I made sure to take in the sea and the little lighthouses. However, just past the statue of knights, there is another opening that leads to a chapel dating before the fort was built as well as several other exhibits. These rooms talk about the prehistoric and mideval history right up to present day. Malta, being in the middle of the Mediteranian Sea, has been strategic in defending their shores against the great seige of the Ottamons with the help of the Knights of St. John. They were controlled by Napoleon for six days before they decided to rebel. The British helped them expel the French and thus they were under British rule until 1964 when they gained their independance. They also played key roles in the first and second world wars. It is amazing what this little island has been through.
Leaving the museum, we walked back towards the city center because I wanted to see St. John's Co-Cathedral. On the way though, we decided to take a rest at a Maltese Chocolate Shop. Oh my goodness...if you ever come to Malta, stop here. The Chocolate District serves liquid chocolate shots. We tried the ebony and ivory pure chocolate goodness. Fierce also asked for a double chocolate cake and I sipped on hot Bora Bora tea. We even drizzled some of the liquid chocolate onto a bite of the cake...delightful!
A few streets away, the Cathedral is impressive times ten. Every inch of the walls, floors and ceilings are touched by gilded art. The marble floors are done in rectangular tiles inlaid with art to represent the knights of St. John's tombstones symbolizing their human valor and death, but also their eternal life in heaven. The walls are gilded and carved into beautiful tapestries of art to include the weapons the knights used. The Baroque style of the Cathedral is beautiful. I can see why some people might spend a significant amount of time here. However, I am traveling with a seven year old and he was very patiently waiting for me to exit.
On our way back, I think we were both looking forward to relaxing at the hotel. It was a great day and for a second day in a row, it was sunny!
