Auberge de Castille-León and Portugal
This point of interest is available as audio on the tour: Visit Valletta, Step Into the World of the Knights of St. John
The Auberge de Castille, León and Portugal has stood proudly over the Grand Harbour since 1574 as a striking symbol of Malta’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Originally, this was one of Valleta’s seven auberges, residences where the Knights of the Order of St John lived and met, each one of them linked to a specific territory or territories. As its name suggests, this elegant auberge was home to knights from Castile, León, and Portugal.
One knight in particular left a lasting legacy: Grand Master Manoel Pinto da Fonseca. He transformed the building from its original classical style into the Baroque masterpiece you see today.
He also left a more personal mark, his bust adorns the façade, and his coat of arms is carved into the pediment. From a meeting place for knights to the British military’s headquarters in 1805, this building’s importance has not diminished. Today, it houses the office of Malta’s Prime Minister.
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