This year the planning authority will be offering a series of different architecture and heritage planning tours. During these walking tours, participants will gain a holistic appreciation of the urban fabric of the locality which is primarily immersed in traditional winding roads. These tours will also give participants a better appreciation of the various initiatives that the Planning Authority have rolled out over the years from which the respective locality and its residents benefitted.
TOUR ONE – ZEJTUN
When a Grandmaster decides to elevate a village and give it the title of a city using the surname of his very own mother it sure has to be an important place. Ferdinand von Hompesch, the last Grandmaster to reign in Malta, gave the title of Città Beland to the locality of Zejtun in 1797.
The origins of Zejtun goes back to the Phoenician and Roman times. Originally Zejtun, known as Terra Santa Catarina, covered the south east part of the Island extending to the outskirts of the walls protecting Cottonera. Up until 1680, Zejtun primarily had two separate residential communities – one known as Bisqallin still referred today as Ir-Rahal t’Isfel and Hal Gwann and Hal Bisbut, known as Ir-Rahal ta’ Fuq. Development during the eighteenth century and the construction of the new parish church in between the two communities formed the present centre and linked the two to form one community.
Participants will be taken to see the aesthetical richness of several buildings of architectural and historic significance including the summer residences of Grand Master Perellos and Archbishop Cagliares, the Aedis Danielis Palace and other important landmarks within the city.
This tour will be held on the following dates:
2nd November 2025
14th December 2025
25th January 2026
22nd February 2026
19th April 2026
Meeting Place: Infront of bus terminal at 09:00hrs
TOUR TWO – RABAT GOZO
Rabat, officially known as Victoria serves as the cultural and commercial hub of Gozo, with lively squares, traditional markets, and narrow streets that capture the island’s Mediterranean charm. The city blends modern life with historic character, making it a natural starting point for exploring Gozo.
Overlooking Rabat is the imposing Cittadella, a fortified hilltop settlement that has stood for centuries as the island’s stronghold. Within its walls, visitors find a maze of historic buildings, bastions, and churches, along with panoramic views across Gozo’s countryside and coastline. Today, the Cittadella is both a cultural landmark and a reminder of the island’s resilience, preserving its medieval spirit while welcoming visitors to step back in time.
This tour will be held on the following dates:
30th November 2025
22nd March 2026
Meeting Place: in front of Cittadella Gate at 09:00hrs
For more information, contact us on 2290 2021 or send us an email on tours@pa.org.mt
