Hastings Garden

Gardens in Valletta

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Frank Vincentz

The Hastings Garden is one of Valletta's most peaceful elevated parks, offering panoramic views that sweep across Floriana, Sliema, and the shimmering waters of Marsamxett Harbour. Perched atop St. Michael's Bastion, this serene garden provides an oasis of calm above the city's fortified walls. It takes its name from Francis, Marquis of Hastings, a former Governor of Malta during the early 19th century, whose monument — a tall obelisk — stands prominently within the grounds. The monument not only honors his memory but also reflects the long-standing British influence on Malta's landscape and urban planning.

Despite its modest size, Hastings Garden has a distinctive charm. Built quickly (local lore credits the speed to the efficiency of Maltese builders), the park is beautifully maintained, featuring a mix of shaded trees, colorful flowerbeds, and paved walkways that invite quiet exploration. Unlike the busier Upper Barrakka Gardens, Hastings remains pleasantly uncrowded, making it ideal for a reflective walk or a peaceful pause with a view. Benches placed along the bastion's edge allow visitors to soak in the panorama, from Valletta's bastions to the sea beyond.

The garden's elevated position offers some of the best photo opportunities in Valletta, especially at sunset when the light bathes the limestone walls in gold and the harbor glows beneath. The calm atmosphere and striking views make it a favorite spot among locals seeking a moment of tranquility amid the city's lively rhythm. Couples, artists, and photographers often gather here to enjoy the sweeping scenery and the soothing sound of the wind over the ramparts.

Beyond its beauty, Hastings Garden carries historical resonance as part of Valletta's intricate defensive system. St. Michael's Bastion, on which it stands, was once a crucial part of the city's fortifications built by the Knights of St. John. Today, the garden's peaceful ambiance contrasts beautifully with its military past — a place once built for defense now offering rest, reflection, and natural beauty above Malta's capital.

The Hastings Garden appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valletta!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!