Did you know that back in the time of the knights the easiest way of getting into Valletta was through Porta Marina? This single arch gate was in the time of the British replaced by what we know as Victoria Gate. 

At the time, this area of Valletta, better known as Ta’ Liesse, was one of the busiest parts of Valletta. Ships used to berth close by, bringing produce from Italy and Gozo, and the shops which lined Marina Street used to be a hive of activity, with wholesalers supplying the other shops in Valletta.

A tour of this area, led by professionals in the field of heritage planning and conservation – to be held today – will focus on interesting aspects of traditional construction features, practices in historic and current urban heritage planning and examples of buildings typical of the time when they were built.

Although still a shadow of its past, today this area is slowly being regenerated. Tucked away from the busy streets of Valletta, the Ta’ Liesse area contains an array of baroque buildings, palazzos and extensive fortifications built by the Order of the Knights.

To book a place, call 2290 2021/9942 5222 or send an e-mail to tours@pa.org.mt. Places are on a first-come, first-served basis. A €3 fee will be donated to the Malta Autism Centre. The tour, which leaves from in front of the Phoenicia Hotel in Floriana, starts at 9am sharp and will end by 12.30pm. Other tours will be held on November 18, December 9, January 27, February 24, March 24, April 28 and May 19.