Mdina

Mdina

Mdina, also known as the "Silent City," is a historic fortified city located in the northern region of Malta. It has two Italian titles, Città Vecchia ("Old City") and Città Notabile ("Notable City"). The city, which is still enclosed within its ancient walls, served as the capital of Malta from ancient times until the Middle Ages. Today, Mdina has a population of around 250 residents. Adjacent to Mdina is the city of Rabat, which derives its name from the Arabic word for suburb. Rabat developed as a residential area outside the walls of Mdina and has its own unique charm and historical significance. Mdina has a rich history that dates back to the 8th century BC when it was founded as Maleth by Phoenician settlers. Later, the Romans renamed it Melite. Ancient Melite was larger than the present-day Mdina but was reduced in size during the Byzantine or Arab occupation of Malta. It was during this period that the city adopted its current name, Mdina, which is derived from the Arabic word "medina," meaning city. For many centuries, Mdina remained the capital of Malta until the arrival of the Knights of St. John in 1530. The administrative center then shifted to Birgu, and Mdina experienced a period of decline. However, in the early 18th century, the city saw a revival and acquired several baroque features while retaining its medieval character. Despite its revival, Mdina never regained its pre-1530 importance, leading to its popular nickname, the "Silent City." This name is attributed to both locals and visitors who appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the absence of motorized vehicles within the city walls. Mdina's historical and architectural significance has earned it a place on the provisional list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.