Overview
Floriana—known in Maltese as Il-Furjana—developed around the Floriana Lines, an outer defensive system for Valletta whose construction began in 1636. The suburb itself was founded in 1724 under Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena (originally called Borgo Vilhena), and it takes its modern name from the military engineer Pietro Paolo Floriani.
Key dates in Floriana’s history
- Construction begins on the Floriana Lines, Valletta’s outer land defences.
- The fortifications are reported as partially defensible; work and upgrades continue for decades.
- Portes des Bombes is built as an advanced gate within the Floriana Lines.
- Floriana’s suburb is founded and begins to build up between the Lines and Valletta’s land front.
- First stone laid for St Publius Parish Church.
- Major construction phase completes and the relic of Saint Publius is brought to the church.
- St Publius Parish Church is consecrated.
- The fortifications see action during the French invasion and blockade period around the Grand Harbour.
- Large-scale works on the Floriana Granaries (Il-Fosos) are commissioned and completed.
- The Floriana War Memorial is inaugurated.
- WWII bombing damages St Publius Church (including its façade and dome).
- The Malta Memorial is unveiled, commemorating WWII Commonwealth aircrew.
- MICAS opens to the public on the restored Floriana fortifications.
Top places to visit in Floriana
1) Floriana Lines (Is-Swar tal-Furjana)
Walk along bastions, gates, and outworks that once strengthened Valletta’s landward defences. Look for viewpoints over Marsa/Pietà and the Grand Harbour approaches.
2) Portes des Bombes (Bieb il-Bombi)
One of Floriana’s most photographed landmarks: an ornate baroque gateway built in 1721 and expanded with a second arch in 1868.
3) Il-Fosos / Floriana Granaries (Pjazza San Publju)
A vast square famous for its stone-capped grain silos below. The mid-19th century granary system (commissioned 1847–1851) proved vital during wartime shortages.
4) St Publius Parish Church
Floriana’s parish church anchors the main square area. Key dates include the first stone laid on 2 August 1733 and consecration on 20 March 1792.
5) Argotti Botanical Gardens
A calm garden escape near the fortifications. Argotti became a botanic garden in 1805 and today is associated with the University of Malta’s botanical resources.
6) War Memorial & Malta Memorial
The Floriana War Memorial was inaugurated on 11 November 1938. Nearby, the Malta Memorial was unveiled on 3 May 1954 to commemorate WWII Commonwealth aircrew with no known grave.
7) MICAS – Malta International Contemporary Art Space
A major new cultural stop, integrating contemporary architecture into historic ramparts. MICAS opened to the public in late 2024.
8) Knisja ta’ Sarria
The present rotunda church is built, designed by Mattia Preti and executed under architect Lorenzo Gafà.
9)The Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes
Its defining feature is a Lourdes-style grotto with statues of the Madonna and St Bernadette, creating a devotional atmosphere that draws visitors who may never travel to Lourdes itself.
10) Chapel of Our Lady of Manresa
Beyond its devotional role, the chapel is renowned for its concentration of Antoine Favray sacred paintings, including a major altarpiece cycle dating to 1748–49.
11) Church of the Holy Cross
Tal-Kapuccini in Floriana is closely tied to the arrival of the Capuchin friars in Malta. The first friary associated with the Capuchins was established outside Valletta’s walls, in the Floriana area, with the church and convent beginning construction in 1588/89.
12) Saint Publius Parish Church
The parish church of Floriana, dedicated to Saint Publius. It developed in multiple construction phases from the 18th century onward, suffered severe WWII bombing damage, and was rebuilt and enhanced across the 20th century.
An easy walking route (60–120 minutes)
- Start: Portes des Bombes
- Head towards Il-Fosos / Pjazza San Publju and walk the square
- Visit St Publius Parish Church
- Continue to the memorial area: War Memorial + Malta Memorial
- Finish at Argotti Gardens (or extend to MICAS)
Local tips
- Best time: Morning or golden hour for fortification photos and softer light.
- What to wear: Comfortable shoes—stone paving and uneven surfaces appear around bastions and gates.
- Pair it with: Valletta (City Gate is only minutes away on foot).
- Events: Il-Fosos is used for large public events—check local listings if you want to attend (or avoid crowds).
FAQ
Is Floriana the same as Valletta?
No—Floriana is a neighbouring locality directly outside Valletta’s land front, historically developed around the outer defensive lines.
Why is Floriana also called Il-Furjana?
Il-Furjana is the Maltese name commonly used by locals, while “Floriana” is widely used in English and official contexts.
How long do I need to visit?
Plan 1–2 hours for highlights, longer if you add museums, gardens, or a deeper fortifications walk.