The National Museum of Archaeology is housed in Auberge de Provence, a fine example of Baroque architecture, built in 1571 for the Knights of the Order of Saint John originating from Provence, in France. The museum was inaugurated in 1958, including the archaeological and the fine arts collections. In 1974 the fine arts collection was moved to other premises and the museum became known by the designation it has today. It exhibits an impressive set of artefacts, ranging from Malta's Neolithic Period (5000 BC) to the Phoenician Period (400 BC). One of the highlights of the museum is the small statuette "The Sleeping Lady", for its uncommon features. Opening hours: 9.00 to 18.00 (17.00 Jan. and Feb.) Ticket: €5 Back to Valletta
Saint John's Co-Cathedral was commissioned by Grand Master Jean de la Cassière and built as the conventual church for the Knights of Saint John, between 1573 and 1578. It's a Roman Catholic cathedral, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. The Grand Master and several knights donated gifts of high artistic value for its decoration, making its interior a gem of Baroque art and architecture. While the exterior reflects the knights' military pragmatism, the interior reveals their sophistication, power and wealth. Not to miss the paintings by Caravaggio, "Saint Jerome writing" and "The beheading of Saint John the Baptist". Opening hours: 9.30 to 16.30 (12.30 on Sat., closed on Sun.) Entrance fee: €10 Back to Valletta
The church of Santa Maria do Castelo stands within the castle walls and was built between 1569 and 1606, by order of King D. Sebastião, to replace the old medieval church. Decades later, in 1640, the church became an important national symbol when King D. João IV consecrated the crown of the Virgin Mary, proclaiming her the Queen and Patroness of Portugal, after which the Portuguese monarchs never wore the crown again. The church was badly damaged by the earthquake of 1755, which killed 29 people inside the church. The restoration works were slow and only ended in the 19th century. King D. José with the crown beside him and not on his head (Wikipedia)
The bridge of Saint Michael is a neogothic bridge dating from 1910 and offers excellent photo opportunities of the three towers of Ghent (Saint Bavo, Saint Nicholas and the Belfry), the Graslei and Korenlei and the Guild Houses of Ghent. Back to Ghent
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