Day 22 - Malta

The last few days have been some rather small islands where you could go from end to end within two hours. Today that's not the case. We're checking out Valletta, Malta. This is a country rich with history. People have been here since at least 5900 BC. You can still see intact temples from 3900 BC. It was in the late 1500's when the high renaissance came to the island, which you can still see reflected in the architecture.

Quite the stunning view at sunrise	First ferry leaving	Massive limestone walls
Horse buggies are still common	This would be amazing to see at night

Let's head out and see this stunning country.

The Rotunda of Mosta	Look at the side of the man in the right side to get an idea of how tall it is
Stunning doesn't describe this building	The 3rd largest dome structure in the world
In 1942 this bomb went through the dome of the roof...	...but it did not explode during the middle of evening mass	Each color / shade is individually cut marble inlaid into the black
Love the renaissance sun balconies	So much lush landscapes

Let's continue higher up into the mountains to Mdina.

You can see this from miles away		Don't want to walk? Enjoy a ride
	The powder blue...	Houses were even made for short folks
The 76 granaries, used to store 80 tons of wheat each, to help the town survive wars	One of the churches in front of the granaries.

Onward. To the water we go.

The	Their gorgeous harbor	Malta makes some of the most durable limestone bricks anywhere
Lots of churches in Malta	The 12th century Xlejli Tower	The landscape changes so much on the south end of the island

When you have beautiful natural coves you turn it into a swimming area.


Back in town. I want to check out the view from the top of the fort walls

That elevator is 200'	Amazing stonework to make this bridge between walls	What a view of the full harbor
If your city is under siege you need a church to go to	Old theater plays host to new theater shows	Parts almost look like San Fran
	Chocolate filled croissant

One more place to visit... but first a packing sea day