Calypso Radio 101.8 visits Valletta part 1: Foundations of a Fortress City

The year is 1565. Against all odds, Grand Master Jean de Valette led a small but determined force that stopped the mighty Ottoman Empire in its tracks. But De Valette knew that victory came with a price — and that the threat was far from over. The Ottomans would return, and Malta had to be ready.

Wasting no time, the Grand Master set plans in motion to build a new fortified city, one that would stand tall against any future invasion. Just months after the Great Siege, the foundations of Valletta were laid — a city built not only for beauty, but for strength.

In this first part of our tour, we’ll trace the origins of Valletta, exploring how it was strategically designed for defence and prestige. Our walk will take us through Hastings Gardens with their commanding views, down the city’s lively main street, and past grand landmarks such as the Bishop’s Palace and the stately Grand Master’s Palace. Discover how Valletta’s bastions, gardens, and palaces tell the story of a city born from war and shaped by resilience.

Join us for the first part of this tour on Friday 20th June. We'll meet in front of the Phoenicia Hotel at 7pm.

For part 2 visit click here