Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms - An amazing room of the Catherine Palace in Tsarskoe Selo
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Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms

4.5
·352 reviews·Valletta, Malta

Explore 450 years of history in Valletta's Grandmaster's Palace, featuring a stunning Armoury and meticulously restored State Rooms.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
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Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms - An amazing room of the Catherine Palace in Tsarskoe Selo

Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 450 years of history in Valletta's Grandmaster's Palace, featuring a stunning Armoury and meticulously restored State Rooms.

4.5
(352 reviews)

"The Armoury is incredible, a must-see with its vast collection of historical weapons and armor."

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TIP

🎯 Don't Miss the Armoury!

The Armoury is a must-see with its vast collection of historical weapons and armor.

💳 Easy Ticket Purchase

Tickets can be purchased on-site using a tour credit card or phone.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Armoury

The Grand Armoury

Former Parliament Chamber

An imposing collection of knights' armor, swords, muskets, and cannons, stretching from floor to ceiling.

Restored State Rooms

Restored State Rooms

Piano Nobile Corridors

Explore meticulously restored rooms like the Grand Master's Study, Throne Room, and Ambassadors' Room.

Symbol of a Nation's History

Symbol of a Nation's History

Throughout the Palace

Wander through a building that embodies 450 years of history as a center of power.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Richer Experience

While the Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms are recently renovated and stunning, some visitors find parts can feel a bit sparse. Planning your visit to focus on the newly restored Armoury and State Rooms can maximize your enjoyment. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to truly appreciate the history without feeling rushed.

Focus on the Armoury's Grandeur

The Armoury is a standout feature, boasting an impressive collection of knights' armor, swords, muskets, and cannons. Many visitors highlight this as the primary reason to visit. Allocate ample time here to absorb the historical significance and visual impact of this vast collection.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Don't Miss the Armoury!

The Armoury is a must-see with its vast collection of historical weapons and armor. Reddit

💳 Easy Ticket Purchase

Tickets can be purchased on-site using a tour credit card or phone. Reddit

⏳ Allocate Your Time Wisely

Some find the palace smaller than expected; focus on the Armoury and State Rooms. Reddit

✨ Appreciate the Restoration

The recently renovated State Rooms and Armoury are beautifully restored. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Don't Miss the Armoury!

The Armoury is a must-see with its vast collection of historical weapons and armor. Reddit

💳 Easy Ticket Purchase

Tickets can be purchased on-site using a tour credit card or phone. Reddit

⏳ Allocate Your Time Wisely

Some find the palace smaller than expected; focus on the Armoury and State Rooms. Reddit

✨ Appreciate the Restoration

The recently renovated State Rooms and Armoury are beautifully restored. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(352 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms for its stunning, recently restored interiors and the impressive, vast collection in the Armoury. While some find certain areas less substantial, the historical significance and visual impact of the palace, especially its weaponry, are consistently highlighted as major draws. It's a key historical site in Valletta.

"Incredible place, every part is worth seeing but one thing that stands out and should be the reason you visit is the armoury.

This Palace has a huge collection of armour and weapons, from knights armour and swords to muskets and cannons.

It’s very imposing as the moment you enter you see this giant room plastered with cool stuff at every end, there are pieces of armour even on the walls up to the ceiling."

John King

"Definitely worth checking out and so much stuff to see. Very cool looking at the history. You could spend a long time or a little time depending on your interests. But definitely a place for a history buff."

Luke Loran

"I expected more of this place I guess, especially of the introduction videostory about the place. The part with armors and cannons was interesting to see, while other rooms are empty. It took us 30 minutes to go through it all, I don’t know why I was under impression that this place is bigger. Uou can buy tickets inside on a machine using tour credit card or phone."

M R

What People Like

Incredible Armoury collection
Newly restored State Rooms
Rich 450-year history

What People Dislike

Some rooms feel sparse
Smaller than expected

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms are located in the heart of Valletta, Malta's capital city. It's easily accessible by foot if you are already in the city center. Public buses are also a convenient option, with many routes stopping near the palace. Taxis are readily available, but walking is often the most pleasant way to explore Valletta's historic streets.

Parking in Valletta can be challenging due to its historic nature and narrow streets. There are a few public car parks available, such as the MCP car park, but they can fill up quickly. It's generally recommended to use public transport or taxis to reach the palace.

Yes, if you are arriving by cruise ship, the Grandmaster's Palace is a pleasant walk from the Valletta cruise port. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes uphill through the charming streets of Valletta.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly on-site at the palace. Many visitors report buying tickets from a machine using a tour credit card or their phone, making the process convenient. Reddit

The palace is generally open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date opening hours, as these can sometimes vary due to events or maintenance.

Admission fees are typically reasonable. While specific prices can change, visitors have noted purchasing tickets on-site without issue. It's advisable to check for current pricing before your visit.

Advance booking is generally not required for the Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms, especially since tickets can be easily purchased on-site. However, during peak tourist seasons, arriving earlier in the day might be beneficial.

While not always explicitly mentioned, exploring other nearby historical sites in Valletta might offer opportunities for combined tickets or passes. It's worth inquiring at the ticket office or checking local tourism information.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Armoury is consistently highlighted as the most impressive part, featuring a vast collection of historical weapons and armor. The newly restored State Rooms, including the Throne Room and Ambassadors' Room, are also significant highlights. Reddit

Visiting the Grandmaster's Palace can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on your interest level. Some visitors found it to be a quicker visit, focusing on the main attractions like the Armoury, while others spent more time exploring the details of the State Rooms. Reddit

The Armoury, with its impressive display of armor and weapons, can be particularly engaging for children. The historical context and visual spectacle might capture their attention, though the State Rooms might be less captivating for younger visitors.

While not always explicitly advertised, guided tours might be available or can be arranged. Alternatively, the palace provides an opportunity for self-guided exploration, allowing you to absorb the history at your own pace.

The Grandmaster's Palace has been a center of power for 450 years, serving as the seat of the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John and later as the Governor's Palace and the seat of the Maltese Parliament. It's a symbol of Malta's rich history and its strategic importance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can vary, but generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most public areas of the palace. However, it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff if you are unsure, especially in sensitive exhibition areas.

The Armoury, with its dramatic displays of armor and weapons, offers fantastic photographic opportunities. The ornate State Rooms, particularly the Throne Room and the Grand Master's Study, also provide stunning backdrops for memorable shots.

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical buildings due to safety and privacy concerns. It's highly unlikely that drone photography would be permitted in the vicinity of the Grandmaster's Palace.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Grandmaster's Palace State Rooms can be an engaging visit for families, particularly due to the Armoury. The impressive display of knights' armor, swords, and cannons is often a hit with children, offering a visually stimulating and exciting glimpse into history. Reddit It’s a great way to make historical learning fun and tangible. While the State Rooms might hold less appeal for very young children, the sheer scale of the weaponry can capture their imagination. Consider focusing your visit on the Armoury to maximize engagement for younger visitors.

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, the Grandmaster's Palace is a must-visit. The 450-year history encapsulated within its walls offers a deep dive into Malta's past as a center of power. Reddit The Armoury is a particular treasure trove, showcasing a vast collection of military artifacts. Beyond the weaponry, the restored State Rooms provide context on the governance and daily life of the Knights of St. John and subsequent administrations. Exploring these rooms allows for a comprehensive understanding of the palace's enduring significance.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magnificent Armoury

The Armoury within the Grandmaster's Palace is a truly awe-inspiring collection that many visitors consider the highlight of their visit. Housed in the former Parliament Chamber, this hall is a testament to centuries of military history, showcasing an extensive array of knights' armor, swords, muskets, and even cannons. The sheer volume and preservation of these artifacts create an imposing and immersive experience. You'll find pieces of armor displayed from floor to ceiling, offering a vivid glimpse into the martial past of the Knights of St. John and Malta. It's a space that history buffs will particularly relish, offering ample opportunity to study the craftsmanship and evolution of weaponry over time. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the visual impact of entering the Armoury, with its walls and displays packed with historical artifacts. It's easy to spend a significant amount of time here, examining the intricate details of each piece and imagining the battles they were part of. The collection provides a tangible connection to the past, making the history of the palace and Malta come alive. Even those with a casual interest in history will likely find the scale and presentation of the Armoury captivating. Reddit

Exploring the State Rooms

The State Rooms of the Grandmaster's Palace have undergone meticulous restoration, bringing back the grandeur of their former glory. These rooms, located along the Piano Nobile corridors, offer a look into the opulent lifestyle and official functions that took place within the palace walls. Key rooms to explore include the Grand Master's Study/Sitting Room, the impressive Throne Room, the Pages' Room, and the elegant Ambassadors' Room. Each space is adorned with historical furnishings, artwork, and architectural details that reflect different periods of the palace's use. Reddit

While some visitors note that certain areas might feel less substantial than expected, the restored State Rooms provide valuable insight into the administrative and ceremonial heart of the Knights' rule and subsequent governance. The attention to detail in the restoration aims to recreate the atmosphere of these historically significant chambers. Wandering through these rooms allows you to appreciate the architectural evolution and the symbolic importance of the palace as a center of power and a representation of Maltese heritage. Reddit

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