Palace Square (St. George’s Square)

Square in Valletta

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mboesch

St. George's Square, also known as Palace Square, is the beating heart of Valletta — a stately open space that has witnessed centuries of Malta's history unfold. Established in the 17th century, the square was originally laid out as the forecourt of the Grand Master's Palace, the seat of the Order of St. John and later of British colonial power. Over the years, it has served as the stage for countless national milestones, from royal visits and state ceremonies to the jubilant presentation of the George Cross in 1942, an honor awarded to the Maltese people for their bravery during World War II. Surrounded by striking architecture, including the Casa dei Conti (the treasury of the Knights), the Main Guard Building, and the Hostel de Verdelin — now a police station — the square captures Valletta's elegant civic and military heritage.

Throughout the centuries, the look and purpose of St. George's Square have evolved, yet it has always remained the social and ceremonial center of the city. Once a parade ground for the Knights and later for British troops, the square has been thoughtfully restored into a pedestrian-friendly plaza that celebrates both history and community. It now stands as Valletta's “people's square,” where locals gather for events, cultural festivals, and open-air performances. The lively Changing of the Guard ceremony, held monthly in front of the Grand Master's Palace, adds a touch of pageantry reminiscent of the island's colonial past.

Modern touches blend seamlessly with tradition here. A dancing water fountain, installed at the center of the square, adds charm and motion to the historic setting. The synchronized jets, illuminated after dark, create a captivating spectacle that delights visitors of all ages. Cafés and restaurants line the square's edges, making it a favorite spot to pause for coffee or an evening drink while enjoying the rhythm of city life. Whether it's day or night, there's always an energy about the square that reflects Valletta's vibrant character.

Centrally positioned midway along Republic Street, bordered by Old Theatre Street and Archbishop Street, St. George's Square serves as both a literal and symbolic crossroads of Maltese culture. It's the perfect place to begin or end a walking tour of the city, offering direct access to major attractions like the Grand Master's Palace and the National Library of Malta. Though it may not be a “hidden gem,” it's a must-see for its atmosphere alone — a place where the echoes of Malta's storied past meet the lively pulse of its modern capital.

The Palace Square (St. George’s Square) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valletta!

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