10 Things to Do in Upper Barrakka Gardens, Julian’s Malta
Upper Barrakka Gardens in Julian’s Malta is a stunningly beautiful and historically significant public park. Located on the edge of the Valletta Grand Harbour, Upper Barrakka Gardens offers breathtaking views of the harbour, the city of Valletta, and the surrounding islands. This idyllic park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike, and there are plenty of things to do in Upper Barrakka Gardens. Here are 10 of the best activities to enjoy in this beautiful park.
1. Take in the Views: Upper Barrakka Gardens offers some of the best views of the Valletta Grand Harbour. From the park, visitors can admire the stunning views of the harbour, city, and surrounding islands. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for a picnic or just want to take in the beauty of the area, Upper Barrakka Gardens is the perfect place to do it.
2. Explore the History: Upper Barrakka Gardens is steeped in history. The park was originally built in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John and was used as a private garden for the Grand Masters. Today, visitors can explore the history of the park and learn more about the Knights of St. John and their role in Malta’s history.
3. Visit the Saluting Battery: The Saluting Battery is a must-see attraction in Upper Barrakka Gardens. This is a historic battery that was used by the Knights of St. John to fire cannons in salute of ships entering and leaving the harbour. Today, the battery is still used to fire a cannon at noon each day.
4. Admire the Sculptures: Upper Barrakka Gardens is home to a number of sculptures, including a bust of the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John. Visitors can also admire the bronze statue of a lion, which is a replica of the lion that stands in St. Mark’s Square in Venice.
5. Relax in the Gardens: Upper Barrakka Gardens is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The park is home to a variety of trees, plants, and flowers, and visitors can stroll through the park and admire the lush greenery.
6. Enjoy a Picnic: Upper Barrakka Gardens is the perfect place for a romantic picnic. Visitors can bring their own food and drinks or purchase refreshments from the nearby kiosks. There are plenty of benches and tables scattered throughout the park, offering the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a stunning view.
7. Take a Boat Tour: Visitors can take a boat tour of the Valletta Grand Harbour from the park. Boat tours depart from the harbour and offer visitors the chance to admire the stunning views of the city from the water.
8. Watch a Performance: Upper Barrakka Gardens is home to a number of outdoor performances, including concerts and theatre. Visitors can enjoy a variety of performances throughout the year, from classical music to modern theatre.
9. Visit the Lascaris War Rooms: The Lascaris War Rooms are a must-see attraction in Upper Barrakka Gardens. This is a museum that was used by the British during World War II to plan their strategy against the Germans. Today, visitors can explore the museum and learn more about Malta’s role in the war.
10. Enjoy a Meal at a Cafe: There are several cafes located in Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering visitors the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with a view. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes, as well as international cuisine.
Upper Barrakka Gardens is a stunning public park that offers visitors plenty of things to do. From admiring the views to exploring the history, there is something for everyone in this beautiful park. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for a picnic or just want to take in the beauty of nature, Upper Barrakka Gardens is the perfect place to do it.