The monumental entrance gate of the fortified city of Mdina in Malta

The image shows the majestic main gate of Mdina, Malta's ancient capital known as the Silent City. The Baroque portal, designed by French architect Charles Francois de Mondion in 1724, opens in the mighty defensive walls surrounding the medieval city. A stone bridge leads to the entrance, replacing the ancient drawbridge. The coat of arms above the arch and sculptural decorations testify to the historic importance of this access. Mdina, perched on a hill in the center of the island, was Malta's capital until the arrival of the Knights in 1530. Today, with fewer than 300 residents, it maintains an atmosphere of quiet and mystery that makes it one of the archipelago's most fascinating attractions.

Malta, Mdina, gate, walls, Baroque, silent city, medieval, fortifications