Throughout history up until some decades ago most activities in Malta centered around the Grand Harbour. It was the islands’ only link with the outside world. Valletta and other towns and cities around the harbour grew up as a result of these activities. Malta’s entire history has been influenced by this natural harbour which is deep and at the same time sheltered with numerous creeks and inlets. The two most influential events in Malta’s history testify to this; namely the arrival of the Knights of Saint John – with the subsequent Great Siege which took place in the harbour itself and the arrival of the British Empire which culminated in Malta’s well documented role in World War II which again took place mostly around Grand Harbour.
The two most influential events in Malta’s history testify to this; namely the arrival of the Knights of Saint John – with the subsequent Great Siege which took place in the harbour itself and the arrival of the British Empire which culminated in Malta’s well documented role in World War II which again took place mostly around Grand Harbour . Over the past 40 years the importance of Valletta’s Grand Harbour diminished steadily, mainly due to the extensive devastation of the harbour areas during the Second World War, and the inhabitants’ increased mobility brought about by the ownership of private cars, efficient air transport, the closure of the military base and decline of business at the docks. As a direct result many people living in the areas surrounding Grand Harbour moved to towns and suburbs further inland. Grand Harbour is now seeing a change in its fortunes, with the number of previously run-down areas around it being refurbished and renovated.
The philosophy is to create a carefully zoned neighbourhood resembling a well planned waterfront town with little streets, lanes, public areas, retail and offices, restaurants, night clubs, bars, cafes, cinema, and conference centre. The waterfront will also have at its very heart its own authentic Baroque church which has been carefully restored.