Mdina, often referred to as “The Silent City.” It is one of Malta’s most beautiful places with an exceptional history. This old city, perched on a hill in the centre of the island. Has seen centuries of history pass by its sturdy stone walls.
The main entrance to this remarkable place is the Mdina Main Gate. A grand structure that welcomes visitors into a world of history and quiet beauty. A symbol of the city’s enduring legacy.
A Brief History of Mdina
Before we dive into the details of the Mdina Main Gate. It is important to understand a little bit about Mdina itself.
Mdina is one of the oldest cities in Malta. Its history dates back to the Phoenician era. In fact, it was founded in around 700 BC. Back in the days, the city walls stretched into part of the town of Rabat. It was narrowed to its current size during the mediaeval period. Mdina’s buildings are a mix of Medieval and Baroque architecture. It was the island’s capital city until 1530. Home to many noble families.
Over the centuries, Mdina has been ruled by different civilizations. Including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans and the Knights Hospitaller. Each of these groups left their mark on the city. Making it a melting pot of cultures and histories. The sense of history that fills the air all combine to make Mdina a special place.
The Mdina Main Gate: A Portal to Malta’s Silent City
The Mdina Main Gate serves as a grand entrance to the mediaeval city. The first thing most visitors see when they arrive. It is an imposing structure, made of local limestone. Designed with beautiful intricate carvings and details.
The Mdina Main Gate, also known as Vilhena Gate, was built in 1724. During the rule of the Order of the Knights of St. John. Named after the Portuguese Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena. Who ordered its construction. It remains one of the most iconic structures in Malta.
The present gate was built a few metres to the left of the old gate. Known as Prima Porta Principale or Porta di Santa Maria. The original gate was walled up. It now forms part of the solid stone wall.
Mdina Gate leads into the city’s main street. Which is lined with historic buildings, churches and palaces. The most popular palace is Palazzo Vilhena. Open to the public, it is home to the National Museum of Natural History.
Architecture and Design of the Mdina Gate
The Mdina Main Gate is a fine example of Baroque architecture. Designed by French architect Charles François de Mondion. Baroque architecture is known for its grand and elaborate designs. The Mdina Main Gate is no exception!
Constructed out of light-coloured limestone which gives it a warm and golden hue. This limestone is a common building material in Malta. Used in many of the island’s historic buildings. One of the most striking features of the Mdina Main Gate is its carvings and sculptures. These carvings are not only beautiful decorations. They are also a way of telling the story of Mdina and its importance in Maltese history.
The gate is graced with double pilasters. It stands tall and wide with a large central arch. That is big enough for people and carriages to pass through. Above the arch, there is a small balcony. Which adds to the grandeur of the gate.
One of the first things you will notice is the coat of arms. Displayed in a prominent position above the arch. Being, those of Grand Master de Vilhena and the city of Mdina. In the centre is a Latin inscription. The rear of the gate is embellished with reliefs of the patron saints of Malta. Being St. Paul, St. Agatha and St. Publius.
An arched stone bridge leads the way to the gate. The entrance of which is guarded by two lions. Resting their paws on the Mdina and de Vilhena coat of arms.
The Defensive Purpose of the Gate
Beyond any doubt, the Mdina Gate is a beautiful piece of architecture. But it was also built with a practical purpose in mind. Like many mediaeval cities, Mdina was a fortified city. Meaning it was built to be defended against attacks. The gate was a key part of these defences.
Surrounded by thick stone walls designed to keep out invaders. The walls are high and strong. They have stood the test of time. Remaining intact for hundreds of years. The gate itself could be closed and locked. Making it difficult for anyone to enter the city without permission.
The Passage Through Time
Today, the Mdina Main Gate is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malta. Visitors from all over the world come to see it. As well to explore the historic city of Mdina. The gate is easy to access. You can take your time to admire its details. To imagine what it was like for the people who passed through it hundreds of years ago. It is a great starting point for a tour of the city.
As you walk through the Main Gate, you are walking in the footsteps of countless people. Who have passed through this gate over the centuries. These include knights, nobles, soldiers and ordinary citizens. Each of these people played a part in the history of Mdina. Their stories are woven into the fabric of the city.
As you enter the city, you will find yourself in St. Publius Square. Walk down the main street, look at its beautiful buildings. The likes of churches, grand palaces and charming old houses. Many of which date back hundreds of years. The street leads to the heart of the city. Where you will find St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of the most important churches in Malta.
Walking through the Mdina Main Gate is like stepping back in time. It feels like the place has been frozen in time. The city has changed very little over the centuries. It retains its old-world charm. The streets are narrow and winding. Lined with tall stone buildings that cast long shadows in the sun. The streets are also very quiet. Hence, why it is known as “The Silent City.” There is a sense of peace and tranquillity that is hard to find in other places. This quietness adds to the feeling of stepping into a different era when you enter Mdina.
The Gate in Popular Culture
The Mdina Main Gate has not only captured the hearts of locals and tourists. But it has also made appearances in popular culture. One of the most famous appearances was in the hit television series “Game of Thrones.” In the show, the gate featured as the entrance to the fictional city of King’s Landing. The capital of the Seven Kingdoms. This has made the gate even more famous and has drawn even more visitors to Mdina.
The use of the Mdina Main Gate in “Game of Thrones” is a testament to its timeless beauty. Its ability to transport people to a different world. Whether you are a fan of the show or not. Walking through the gate is an experience that feels magical. As if you are entering a different time and place.
Mdina’s other Two Gates
Entrance to the fortified city of Mdina is through three gates. One of these gates has already been described in detail above. Below, you’ll find information about the other two gates.
The Greek’s Gate
Greek’s Gate dates back to mediaeval times. While not as grand as the Main Gate, it holds its own unique charm. Built as a secondary entrance, it is located at St Nicholas street. Surrounded by thick stone walls like the rest of Mdina. These walls were built for protection. During the times when the city needed to defend itself from invaders.
It is much simpler in design compared to the Main Gate. The back of the Greek’s Gate maintains its original mediaeval beauty. Though less famous than the Main Gate, it still plays an important part in Mdina’s history.
Named after the Greek community that once lived nearby. In the past, this gate provided easier access to the residents of the area. Including farmers and workers who lived outside the main city walls. For a very long time, this was the only gate slaves could use to enter Mdina.
This gate has a more peaceful and less crowded feel. Making it a good spot for those who want to avoid the busier Main Gate area. Visitors who pass through this gate are treated with a scenic countryside view. Once inside, they can wander through the quiet streets of Mdina and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
The Għarreqin Gate
The “Għarreqin Gate” is the newest gate built. At times considered to be an outer gate to the Greek’s Gate. Information about this gate is very scarce. No one knows the purpose for its excavation. The gate portrays a Saint holding a dagger in one hand and a cross in the other.
The Mdina Main Gate is more than an entrance to a city. It is a gateway to the past. This beautiful and historic gate has stood for centuries. Welcoming visitors to one of Malta’s most treasured places. Its grand design and intricate carvings make it a must-see for anyone visiting Malta.
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