Mdina has earned its reputation as the silent city. And it is. The squares are a stage for the sun’s rays miming a shadow puppet show. The thick ancient walls muffle the sound of steps playing a silent percussion along the narrow, cobbled streets.

And behind the elegant doors of noble houses, quiet lives sip tea in beautiful gardens.

But this weekend, Mdina will echo with the sound of battles, skirmishes, music, falcons, birds of prey and flag bearers.

The Medieval Mdina Festival is being organised for the seventh consecutive year. On April 18 and 19, the old capital will celebrate its medieval past with re-enactments by foreign and local groups, medieval music, sbandieratori, illusionists, jesters, falconry and a medieval kitchen and market.

During the festival, participants will perform all day long in various corners and squares of Mdina. This year, the shows include battles, skirmishes, sword fighting, archery, magic shows, parades, flag throwing shows and re-enactments from the medieval period.

The festival also serves as a cultural exchange between local talents and foreign groups, disseminating the heritage of the medieval times.

The festival is also a good educational exercise to teach both children and adults the history of the old capital.

During the festival, all the tourist attractions extend their opening hours and offer special reduced prices. Food is also on the menu and a number of outlets offer medieval fare for these two days.

The Medieval Mdina Festival is organised by the Mdina Local Council. It is supported by a number of government departments, the Mdina business community and residents.

This year’s attractions

• Anakron
• Compagnia San Michele
• Fratres In Armis
• Historical Re-enactment Group of Malta
• Show of Arms
• Bibita
• Brian Role and Lourdes Palmer
• Fridericus Rex
• Reptiles
• Sean Briffa
• Gruppo Sbandieratori di Vignanello
• Gruppo Tamburi, Citta’ di Giarratana
• Tours and discussions
• Exhibitions
• Food and drink stands
• Children’s area