Palace Square (St. George’s Square)

Square in Valletta

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mboesch

St. George's Square, also known as Palace Square, stands at the very core of Valletta's historic and cultural identity. Once the ceremonial forecourt of the Grand Master's Palace, this open, sunlit plaza has long served as the setting for Malta's most important public moments — from knightly parades and colonial pageantry to modern national celebrations. Today, it remains one of the top sights in Valletta, an elegant gathering place where the island's storied past meets the vibrant rhythm of daily life.

The square's charm lies in its seamless blend of grandeur and accessibility. Flanked by majestic buildings, lively cafés, and a graceful water fountain that dances by day and glows by night, it's a welcoming space where history feels alive yet relaxed. Whether you come to admire the architecture, watch the Changing of the Guard, or simply enjoy a coffee in the Maltese sunshine, St. George's Square offers a window into the soul of Valletta. It's also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Valletta, especially for those eager to experience the city's ceremonial heart.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Tips
How to Get There
Is St. George's Square Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

St. George's Square dates back to the early days of Valletta's construction in the 16th century, when it was established as the forecourt of the Grand Master's Palace — the administrative headquarters of the Order of St. John. Over time, it evolved into the symbolic center of Maltese governance and civic life. During the British period, the square became known as Palace Square and hosted military parades, royal ceremonies, and national celebrations.

One of the square's most iconic moments came in 1942, when the George Cross was presented here to honor the bravery of the Maltese people during World War II. This historic event solidified St. George's Square as a place of unity and national pride. Its surrounding buildings tell their own stories — the Casa dei Conti, once the treasury of the Knights; the Main Guard Building, dating back to 1603; and the Hostel de Verdelin, now serving as a police station. Each structure adds a chapter to the square's narrative, blending civic order, military discipline, and architectural beauty.

Today, the Grand Master's Palace still anchors the square, housing the Office of the President of Malta and the Palace State Rooms and Armoury, which remain open to the public. The square's transformation into a pedestrian-only space in recent years has returned it to its role as a welcoming, inclusive plaza for residents and visitors alike.

Things to See and Do

A visit to St. George's Square offers both relaxation and spectacle. The highlight for many is the monthly Changing of the Guard ceremony, held in front of the Grand Master's Palace. Accompanied by the Armed Forces of Malta band, the event combines precision, tradition, and color — a popular sight for both locals and tourists.

In the center of the square, a modern water feature adds a touch of playful charm. Its synchronized jets rise and fall in rhythmic patterns, and at night, they're illuminated to create a magical display. Around the edges, shaded cafés and restaurants invite you to linger over an espresso or evening drink while soaking in the square's elegant surroundings.

For architecture lovers, the harmonious proportions of the surrounding buildings — from Baroque façades to neoclassical colonnades — make this square one of the best places to visit in Valletta for photography and people-watching alike. When evening falls, the atmosphere shifts from formal to festive, as locals gather for dinner or cultural performances that occasionally take place in the open air.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Morning for photos or evening when the fountain is illuminated
Entrance fee in Euros: Free
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Official website: N/A
How long to spend: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Accessibility: Fully accessible with level paving
Facilities: Seating, cafés, and restrooms nearby
Photography tip: Capture the Grand Master's Palace façade at golden hour for stunning light
Guided tours: Included in many Valletta historical and walking tours
Nearby food options: Café Cordina, The Palace Restaurant, and Kingsway

How to Get There

St. George's Square is located in the heart of Valletta, halfway along Republic Street. From the City Gate or the Valletta Bus Terminal, it's a short 10-minute walk straight down Republic Street. Visitors arriving via the Barrakka Lift from the Grand Harbour can reach the square within 15 minutes by following the signs toward the Grand Master's Palace.

Is St. George's Square Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. St. George's Square is one of the must-see places in Valletta — a historic and lively space that captures the essence of the Maltese capital. Its combination of grand architecture, cultural significance, and welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for both sightseeing and relaxation. Whether you come for the history, the view, or simply to feel the city's pulse, the square never fails to impress.

Nearby Attractions

Grand Master's Palace – Home to the Palace Armoury and Malta's presidential offices.
National Library of Malta – 18th-century neoclassical building with priceless manuscripts.
Republic Square (Piazza Regina) – Elegant plaza with cafés and Queen Victoria's statue.
St. John's Co-Cathedral – Baroque masterpiece housing Caravaggio's “Beheading of Saint John.”
Upper Barrakka Gardens – Scenic viewpoint overlooking the Grand Harbour and Saluting Battery.

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

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