Republic Street is the main thoroughfare of Valletta, the capital of Malta. It runs through the heart of the city, linking City Gate at one end with Fort St. Elmo at the other, so a walk along it takes in much of the old city in a single stretch.
The street is lined with continuous facades of Baroque palaces and townhouses, and its architecture is the first thing most visitors notice. Many of the buildings carry the traditional Maltese balconies, the enclosed wooden structures that project over the pavement and give the street much of its character.
What to expect on the walk
- A straight route: the street runs between two landmark points, so it is easy to follow from the city gate to the fort.
- Baroque facades: the palaces and townhouses form a unbroken line of building fronts, best appreciated by looking up.
- Maltese balconies: the projecting timber balconies are a distinctive feature of the local townhouse style.
- The fort at the end: Fort St. Elmo marks the far end of the street and rewards a visit for its position above the harbour area.
Planning a visit
Republic Street suits a slow, unhurried walk rather than a quick pass. Because it connects two points within Valletta, it works well as the spine of a half-day exploration of the old city, with side streets and nearby squares to discover on either side. Visitors interested in architecture will find the most to look at here, while anyone wanting a sense of Valletta as a living city will enjoy the mix of people and streets that the route passes through.