Saturday April 12, 2014
Even by getting up early it seemed we were destined to miss the 9:30 ferry to Valletta as we saw it arrive ten minutes early. Expecting it would do a quick turn around and be gone, we didn’t rush to try and catch it and by the time we realized it was waiting for it’s scheduled departure it was too late to catch. In any event we got to Valletta about 10:30 and went through the State Palace which was used by the Grand Masters of the Order over the years. The frescoes were outstanding and even though the throne room was being set up with Easter displays, we could see into the beautifully crafted room. Next we toured the armory with a massive collection of armor, helmets and various fighting weapons from swords and lances to muskets and cannon. It was a very large and well organized display of medieval implements.
Afterwards, Jim & Jackie went on their own to check out St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral which they found closed. Brian led Rene off to an Artisan’s market which included weaving, art, jewelry and some ceramics. We met back at the square and then went looking for a likely place for lunch. After checking out several candidates we settled on Angelique’s, a tiny place with chalkboard menus and a feisty woman proprietor who encouraged us to try several menu items such as Calamari stuffed with salmon & swordfish (Brian), Maltese Mousaka (Jim) and the best rabbit in Malta (according to Jamie Oliver). The meal was good but we all felt 14 Euros for olives and bread was a bit excessive. Afterwards we both split up and wandered, reconnecting about 4PM for the ferry back to Birgu. We relaxed aboard Necessity and met an Irish fellow with a boat in the harbour. He had recently moved to Malta and was really enjoying everything about the place. Later we returned to the same restaurant for pizza and fish. Seems like we are in a rut.
Brian on board Necessity
Grand Harbour, Vittorioso, Malta