Combine the history of the island of Malta and its famous Three Cities with a spectacular wine tasting on this Valletta adventure!
Meet your guide outside your Valletta Malta cruise port to begin the historical experience. Collectively, the cities you will visit are known as The Three Cities - Cospicua, Vittoriosa (aka Birgu), and Senglea. Cospicua, located east of the capital city of Valletta within the Grand Harbour, has been documented as having inhabitants since Neolithic times.
You will drive past this double-fortified city on your way to Vittoriosa. Vittoriosa also has a long history, dating back to medieval times! Its location has made it the ideal spot for safe anchorage, which has resulted in its extensive military, maritime, and mercantile history. Napoleon captured Malta in 1798 and chose to position his garrison in Vittoriosa. However, the island became a British protectorate shortly thereafter, and the Mediterranean Fleet of the Royal Navy established its base in Vittoriosa. In the historic waterfront, the former Palace of the General of the Galleys and the Order of St. John's treasury remain! Fort St. Angelo, built in the 16th century, is still standing and is being restored.
Moving on to Senglea, you will enjoy walking the charming narrow streets with their many historic churches and other structures. Senglea was named for the grandmaster Claude de la Sengle who was its builder. It is the smallest city on Malta, with an area of only slightly over half of a square mile. Despite its diminutive size, Senglea is quite famous for the statue of Jesus Christ the Redeemer which is in the basilica dedicated to the birth of the Virgin Mary. You will have approximately 30-40 minutes in each of the cities.
After your amazing sightseeing, it is time to enjoy a lovely wine-tasting experience and a guided visit to the historic Marsovin Cellars in Marsa! Using imported barrels made of French or American oak, four generations of winemakers have been practicing and perfecting their craft in the rooms used by the Knights of St. John 400 years ago. The area was once used for boat building and bartering. Learn the process of growing the local grapes, fermenting them, and ultimately turning them into the high-quality wines produced here. You will sample a variety of these fine wines accompanied by local bread and cheese. Your time at the winery is approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Enjoy!
At the conclusion of your shore excursion, your guide will return you to your Valletta cruise port. Cheers to a fact-filled, fun-filled day!
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