This city has been breathing for 4 thousand years!

The small city of Mdina in Malta, with its honey-colored walls, Roman mosaics and magnificent mansions, seems to have stopped time. This city has roots of 4000 years and its name is derived from the Arabic word “Medina” which is a reminder of the era of Arab rule in the 9th century. When the capital was moved to the city of “Valletta” in 1500 AD, the Medina slowly fell into silence and was nicknamed the “silent city”. Although today the commotion of tourists has broken its absolute silence, walking in its narrow and cobbled streets still tells the whispers of history. (National Geographic)

Your adventure probably starts at the Medina Gate, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Game of Thrones fans know it as the gate to King’s Landing in the first season of the series.

Photographer: Unknown / maltathemedtours.com

By passing through this gate and passing through the squares that were the location of filming, you will reach the beating heart of the city, namely “Pjazza San Pawl”.

In St. Paul’s Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral stands out, which is said to be the building that was built at the meeting place of the Roman governor with “Saint Paul”. The splendor of gilded altars and floors of marble tombstones have created a spiritual atmosphere that impresses even non-religious tourists.

Photographer: Unknown / en.wikipedia.org

The museum adjacent to the church also houses a treasure of works of art, including Albrecht Dürer’s woodblock prints. In the evenings, when the orange light of the sun shines on the church, the square becomes very beautiful.

For a deeper understanding of the Medina’s history, you have two different options: visit Palazzo Falson, an aristocratic house from the 13th century that depicts the luxurious life of the past with its mixed Arab-Mediterranean architecture and collection of antiques.

Photographer: unknown / culture-malta.org

The next choice is to go deep into the “Dungeons of Medina” which shows the dark and turbulent side of the island’s history by recreating torture scenes.

To relax, go to “Bastion Square” (Bastion Square) on the northern wall of the city. This is a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset over the plains of Malta. Around the corner of the square, you will find shops selling traditional hand-woven nets and hand-made glasses.

Photographer: Unknown / commons.wikimedia.org

But a trip to Medina is not complete without tasting its flavors. You can refresh your throat at the Fior di Latte ice cream shop or enjoy a slice of their famous chocolate cake with a view of the city ramparts at the popular Fontanella Tea Garden cafe.

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, the star-studded De Mondion restaurant awaits you with its creative cuisine, and if you want a more casual atmosphere, Coogi’s serves a delicious fusion of Italian pastas and traditional Maltese rabbit.

Photographer: Unknown / www.tripadvisor.com

If you plan to spend the night, “The Xara Palace” hotel is a unique experience. This restored 17th century palace with 17 luxurious rooms and suites gives you the feeling of staying in a nobleman’s house. Having breakfast on the rooftop terrace of this hotel with a view that puts the whole island under your feet will be a dreamy ending to a trip to the silent city.

Photographer: Unknown / www.kirkerholidays.com

Are lesser-known cities attractive to you? Would you like to travel to Medina one day? Share your comments with us and other audiences.

Cover photo source: Getty Images Photographer: Unknown