Greetings from Birkirkara, Malta! This historic city is rich in culture and heritage, boasting a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. With its impressive churches and aqueducts, there’s plenty to explore and discover here. Whatever your preferences, you’re sure to find an activity that suits your taste for adventure. Whether you seek a tranquil retreat or an action-packed day out, Birkirkara has something to offer. Let’s explore the top things to do in this enchanting city!
General information about Birkirkara
The vibrant city of Birkirkara in Malta boasts a rich cultural heritage and a plethora of sights to discover! With a population of 25,775, this charming city is one of the oldest and largest in Malta. Among its many attractions is the Old Railway Station, a reminder of Malta’s railway history, which includes a public garden. The St Helen Basilica is the most beautiful church in Birkirkara and is also home to the largest bell on the island. It is renowned for its religious festival, during which a large wooden statue of St Helen is paraded through the town. This event takes place on the first Sunday following 18th August and begins at 8:00 am, concluding at 10:45 pm. Despite its evolution into a significant commercial center, Birkirkara has managed to retain some of its traditional Maltese features, such as its narrow streets and alleys. If you’re seeking a Birkirkara travel guide or ideas for things to do in the area, this is the place to be! Next, let’s explore some of Birkirkara’s exquisite churches…
Churches
Discover the beauty of Birkirkara’s churches, from the modernist marvel to the traditional Basilica of St Helen – all unique and full of character. The most impressive site is the modernist marvel of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux church, designed by Italian architect Giorgio Pacini. It’s a truly inspiring sight, and you can’t help but be awed by its majestic structure. On the other hand, the Basilica of St Helen is an impressive display of traditional architecture that has been standing since at least the 1400s. With its rich history and religious devotion displayed through ex-voto paintings and offerings dedicated to Virgin Mary, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Birkirkara. All in all, there are 18 churches in this small town that will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Moving on to Il-Mithna…
Il-Mithna
Experience the beauty of il-Mithna, a stunning 18th-century windmill that was home to the late Gabriel Caruana’s studio and exhibition space. The Mill (il-Mithna) is now home to the Gabriel Caruana Foundation, which organizes exhibitions and events throughout the year:
- Visit this iconic landmark and take in its breathtaking architecture with a tour of its old stone structure.
- Get inspired by viewing some of the contemporary artwork on display at one of their regular exhibitions.
- Enjoy an evening under the stars with an outdoor movie screening or live music performance held by the foundation from time to time.
Explore other hidden gems in Malta as you visit the Wignacourt Aqueduct, another remarkable historical landmark in Birkirkara.
The Wignacourt Aqueduct
Walk along the streets of Birkirkara and take in the sight of the magnificent Wignacourt Aqueduct. Built by the Order of Saint John in the 17th century, it remains a stunning reminder of Malta’s rich history. The aqueduct spans several villages, including Birkirkara, Santa Venera, Hamrun, Balzan, and Attard. Many arches still stand today as symbols of Malta’s past. You can see them standing proudly at Fleur de Lys, a suburb that forms part of Birkirkara. Take your time to appreciate this wonderful piece of Maltese heritage – it is sure to leave you with an unforgettable experience! As you marvel at the aqueduct’s beauty and grandeur, prepare for your next adventure – discovering St Aloysius College Sports Complex!
St Aloysius College Sports Complex
Discover the world-class sports complex at St Aloysius College and be inspired by its state-of-the-art facilities. From an Olympic standard 400m athletics track to two tennis courts, this amazing facility has everything you need for an active lifestyle. You can also find:
- A gym with modern equipment
- Courts for volleyball, badminton, and indoor five-a-side football
- A basketball and handball pavilion
- A turf football pitch surrounded by lush greenery. It’s no wonder that many professional athletes come here to train! Plus, during non-school hours you can access it all for a small fee. So why not take the plunge and see what wonders await inside St Aloysius College Sports Complex?
Next up is the old railway station – a unique place where history meets exploration!
The Old Railway Station
Leaving the St. Aloysius College Sports Complex, you come across Birkirkara’s Old Railway Station, a landmark that dates back to when Malta had trains. It still stands today with its original signage intact and is situated in a public garden. The gardens around it may not be in the best of shape right now, but there are efforts underway to make it into the gorgeous public space it could be. As you walk through the station, you can almost sense what life was like back then for locals as they would have gone about their daily lives traveling between Valletta and Mdina. There’s something truly special about this place that will undoubtedly capture your heart.
And if one piece of history isn’t enough for you, then perhaps a visit to the nearby Baby Jesus Museum is in order next!
The Baby Jesus Museum
Experience a unique collection of Baby Jesus figures at the Muzew tal-Bambini, open during the weeks leading up to Christmas. Collector Paul Pace’s museum has about 1,500 different types of Baby Jesus figures on display! Whether you’re looking for something modern or antique, there is sure to be something here that will catch your eye. You can take a leisurely stroll through the gallery and admire all the incredible pieces that make up this one-of-a-kind museum. Immerse yourself in Malta’s culture and explore this special collection before Christmas arrives. Soak up the festive atmosphere and marvel at all these beautiful figurines in one place – it certainly won’t disappoint! Next stop: The Valley Road McDonald’s!
The Valley Road McDonald’s
Conveniently located in the heart of Birkirkara, Valley Road McDonald’s is a popular destination during the holiday season for those looking to soak up some festive cheer. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack on the go or a relaxing meal with friends, Valley Road McDonald’s has something to offer everyone. Here are just a few of the reasons why it’s one of Birkirkara’s most beloved destinations:
- Enjoying delicious burgers and fries
- Taking part in fun activities like “McPlay”
- Sipping on classic favorites like shakes and smoothies
- Savoring new seasonal menu items
- Relaxing in cozy seating areas
No matter what brings you to Valley Road McDonald’s, you’re sure to have an enjoyable experience. Next up on our tour of Birkirkara is an exploration of its diverse culinary scene!
Eating and drinking
Tucking away in the streets of Birkirkara, you’ll discover a diverse range of eateries and bars offering everything from traditional Maltese Ftajjar to sizzling steaks and innovative dishes. Head over to Andrew’s Snack Bar for some legendary Ftajjar, or check out Stanjata for their famous carbonara and burgers. If steak is your thing, Dayfresh Meats has got you covered – choose your cut from the butcher’s counter, and let them prepare it for you to enjoy right there. If you’re up for something different, Charles Bar is definitely worth a visit – they’ve got an ever-changing menu with rabbits on offer regularly! No matter what your tastes are, there’s something for everyone in Birkirkara. So come explore this vibrant neighborhood and uncover its hidden gems!
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Birkirkara is in late spring or early summer. Enjoy the warm weather and explore the vibrant city, discovering its history and culture. Be adventurous and embrace your freedom as you explore this wonderful Maltese town!
Discover the best local shopping options in Birkirkara! Enjoy a variety of boutiques and stores offering unique items, from clothing to souvenirs. Explore the vibrant markets, where you’ll find delicious food and artisanal products. Let your inner adventurer come alive as you explore all that Birkirkara has to offer!
Explore Birkirkara for special events and festivals! From the St. Joseph feast to ‘Festa f’Birzebbuga’, you’ll find plenty of unique experiences to enjoy. Discover art, music, food, and more – all in an atmosphere filled with freedom!
Public transportation in Birkirkara is relatively affordable. Grab a bus for less than €2, or enjoy the ease of a taxi for around €6-8. Explore and save – it’s worth it!
Yes! Guided tours of Birkirkara are available and offer an exciting adventure. Discover hidden gems, explore local culture, and get to know the places you never knew existed. Immerse yourself in a unique experience and discover the best-kept secrets of this fascinating city – with a guide at your side!
Conclusion
You’ve experienced all the top things to do in Birkirkara, Malta, and have seen what this lovely town has to offer. From stunning churches to awe-inspiring aqueducts, you’ve had a chance to explore its history and culture. Not only that, but you got to experience some of the unique eateries and attractions that make Birkirkara special. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head off on your next adventure with Birkirkara as your destination! With so much to see and do, it’ll be an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.
