Auberge de Castille - Cannons outside the entrance of the Auberge de Castille in Valletta, Malta
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Auberge de Castille

4.7
·230 reviews·Valletta, Malta

A majestic Baroque masterpiece housing Malta's Prime Minister's office, offering stunning Grand Harbour views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
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Auberge de Castille - Cannons outside the entrance of the Auberge de Castille in Valletta, Malta

Auberge de Castille

Best Time

Morning

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic Baroque masterpiece housing Malta's Prime Minister's office, offering stunning Grand Harbour views.

4.7
(230 reviews)

"One of the most majestic buildings in Malta, a perfect blend of history, power, and architectural elegance."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The Baroque facade and cannons are incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

While interior access is limited, wander the nearby streets for more historical charm and viewpoints. :walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Facade

Baroque Facade

Admire the stunning Spanish Baroque architecture, a masterpiece by Andrea Belli.

Grand Harbour Views

Grand Harbour Views

From the vicinity of the Auberge

Enjoy panoramic vistas of the historic Grand Harbour from Valletta's highest point.

Historic Cannons

Historic Cannons

Entrance

Two impressive cannons flank the grand entrance, adding to the building's imposing presence.

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Planning Your Visit

Prime Location, Prime Views

Situated at Valletta's highest point, Auberge de Castille offers breathtaking Grand Harbour views. Its central location near transport hubs makes it easily accessible for day-trippers and those exploring Malta's capital.

A Glimpse of Power and History

This Baroque masterpiece, built in the 1740s, now houses the Prime Minister's office. While the exterior is a must-see, internal access is limited, so plan your visit to appreciate its grandeur from the outside and surrounding areas.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Tips for Castille Game

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The Baroque facade and cannons are incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

While interior access is limited, wander the nearby streets for more historical charm and viewpoints. :walking:

reddit.com

Any tips and tricks for beginners with 14h of playtime with Castille? Because It is not foolproof for me.

reddit.com

Best strategy for Castille? Please advise

📍 Prime Location

Easily accessible from the bus terminal and taxi ranks, making it a convenient stop. :bus:

reddit.com

Castile tips

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The Baroque facade and cannons are incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

While interior access is limited, wander the nearby streets for more historical charm and viewpoints. :walking:

📍 Prime Location

Easily accessible from the bus terminal and taxi ranks, making it a convenient stop. :bus:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(230 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Auberge de Castille for its majestic Baroque architecture and its prime location offering spectacular Grand Harbour views. While interior access is limited due to its function as the Prime Minister's office, the exterior and its historical significance are highly appreciated. It's considered a must-see landmark in Valletta.

"Perched at the highest point of Valletta, this is one of the most majestic buildings in Malta. Originally built in the 1570s as the Auberge for the Knights of the Order of St. John from Castile, León, and Portugal, it’s now the Office of the Prime Minister. The baroque façade by Andrea Belli is a masterpiece, and the location offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour. A perfect blend of history, power, and architectural elegance.
Definitely recommend 👌🏼."

Walter Basile

"I’m glad that Malta has welcomed many people from Serbia who work hard, and I hope Malta will support Serbia in joining the European Union as soon as possible, so even more skilled Serbian workers can contribute to Malta’s economy."

Dobrica Indjic

"Also known as the Auberge de Castille, this building houses Malta's Prime Ministerial office. Today's facade stands in place of iterations by earlier occupiers like the Knights of St John, This Spanish Baroque design is embellished with two impressive cannons at the grand entrance. The building is situated near teh taxi ranks at the the Central Bank of Malta, the bus terminal beyond Triton Fountain, and the Saluting Battery which overlooks the harbour, so it is a hard location to miss."

Steve Galloway

What People Like

Majestic Baroque facade
Stunning harbour views
Historic cannons

What People Dislike

Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Auberge de Castille is located at the highest point of Valletta. It's easily reachable on foot from the main bus terminal and taxi ranks near Triton Fountain. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the city on foot. Reddit

Public parking in Valletta can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport or taxis to reach the Auberge, as it's centrally located and well-connected.

Yes, numerous bus routes terminate at the Valletta bus terminal, which is a short walk from the Auberge. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Auberge de Castille primarily houses the Prime Minister's office, so interior access is generally restricted. You can admire its magnificent exterior and the surrounding area without a ticket. Reddit

As it's an active government building, there are no public visiting hours for the interior. However, the exterior can be viewed at any time.

Public access to the interior of Auberge de Castille is typically not permitted as it serves as the Office of the Prime Minister. Visitors can appreciate its architecture from the outside.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attractions are the impressive Spanish Baroque facade, the historic cannons at the entrance, and the stunning panoramic views of the Grand Harbour from its elevated position. Reddit

While the exterior is accessible, the historic nature of the building and its function as a government office may limit interior accessibility. The surrounding streets are generally navigable.

Originally built in the 1570s and rebuilt in the 1740s, it housed knights of the Order of St. John. Since 1972, it has been the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta, symbolizing the nation's political heart. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The front facade with the cannons is a prime spot. For wider shots, step back towards the main Valletta streets or find vantage points overlooking the Grand Harbour nearby. TikTok

Photography of the exterior is generally permitted. However, be mindful of security and avoid photographing any sensitive areas or personnel if you happen to see them.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Auberge de Castille itself doesn't offer specific child-friendly attractions due to its function as the Prime Minister's office, its location and exterior features can still be engaging for families. The impressive cannons at the entrance are often a hit with younger visitors, sparking imagination about history and defense. Reddit The building's grand architecture can also be a visual spectacle.

Families can make a visit to the Auberge part of a larger exploration of Valletta. Combine it with a walk to the nearby Saluting Battery for a more interactive historical experience, or enjoy the panoramic views of the Grand Harbour, which can captivate children with the sight of ships and the vastness of the sea. The proximity to the main bus terminal also makes it an easy stop for families using public transport.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Auberge de Castille is a dream for photographers, offering a blend of imposing architecture and stunning vistas. The Spanish Baroque facade provides a dramatic subject, especially when framed by the historic cannons at the entrance. For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for an early morning visit. TikTok

Beyond the building itself, its elevated position in Valletta grants access to breathtaking Grand Harbour views. Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the changing light on the water and the surrounding fortifications. The area around the Auberge also offers charming Valletta streetscapes, providing diverse photographic opportunities within a small radius.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: The Baroque Facade

The Auberge de Castille is a prime example of Spanish Baroque architecture, a style characterized by its grandeur, ornate detailing, and dramatic flair. The current facade, largely designed by Andrea Belli in the 1740s, replaced earlier structures on the site. Its imposing presence is amplified by the two historic cannons that stand guard at the main entrance, hinting at the building's strategic importance and the military order it once served. The intricate stonework, the balanced proportions, and the overall sense of majesty make it a standout building in Valletta's already impressive cityscape. Reddit

Visitors often marvel at the sheer scale and the detailed craftsmanship evident in the stonework. The building's location at the highest point of Valletta further enhances its visual impact, making it a focal point from many vantage points across the city and the Grand Harbour. It’s a testament to the architectural prowess of the era and a significant landmark for understanding Malta's rich history. The exterior alone is worth the visit for architecture enthusiasts.

A Hub of Power: From Knights to Prime Minister

Originally constructed in the 1570s by architect Girolamo Cassar, the Auberge de Castille was built to house the Knights of the Order of St. John from the powerful Langues of Castile, León, and Portugal. These knights were instrumental in Malta's defense and governance during the time of the Order. The building has undergone significant transformations over the centuries, with the most notable being the Baroque reconstruction in the 18th century. Reddit

Since 1972, the Auberge has served a new, yet equally significant, purpose: it is the Office of the Prime Minister of Malta. This transition from a military-religious order's headquarters to the seat of modern government highlights the building's enduring importance in the nation's history and political landscape. Its continued use as a center of power underscores its strategic and symbolic value. The presence of the Prime Minister's office means that while the exterior is publicly visible, interior tours are not typically available, preserving its function as a working government building.

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