Republic Square (Piazza Regina)

Square in Valletta

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Matthew Axiak

Republic Square, also known locally as Piazza Regina or Queen's Square, is one of Valletta's most elegant and lively public spaces, steeped in centuries of history. Originally called Piazza Tesori or Treasury Square, it served as the site of the Order of St. John's Treasury, where the Knights safeguarded their wealth and administrative records. During the British period, a statue of Queen Victoria was placed at its center, and the square became known as Queen's Square — a name still affectionately used by many locals today. The statue remains a defining feature, anchoring the square's blend of Maltese and British heritage.

On the northwest side stands the former Common Treasure House, once the financial and administrative heart of the Order. This grand building stored vital documents and accounts and later adapted to serve as government offices, a post office, a hotel, and even a cinema. Although it suffered bomb damage during World War II, it was later restored and now houses the Casino Maltese, a private members' club. The ground floor is lined with bustling cafés and shops, including the beloved Café Cordina, one of Malta's oldest and most iconic coffeehouses — a must-stop for anyone visiting Valletta.

Opposite the Treasury building, on the southeast side, stands the National Library of Malta (Bibliotheca). Designed by Stefano Ittar, a Polish-Italian architect, and completed in 1796, it was built to hold the expanding collection of the Order of St. John's manuscripts and books. The library's neoclassical façade and arcaded ground floor add to the square's refined aesthetic, complementing the nearby Grand Master's Palace, which occupies the northeast side of the square. The southwest side features a small shopping arcade, adding a touch of contemporary charm to this historic setting.

Today, Republic Square remains one of Valletta's most vibrant gathering spots — a place where history, culture, and leisure come together. Locals and tourists fill the outdoor terraces of cafés and restaurants that spill into the open space, framed by 16th- and 17th-century architecture. Whether you're stopping for coffee beneath the statue of Queen Victoria, exploring the grand library, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Piazza Regina perfectly captures the timeless elegance and sociable spirit of Malta's capital.

The Republic Square (Piazza Regina) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valletta!

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