Venues
27th September 2017
10 Cultural Venues for an Amazing Wedding in Malta
If you’ve bonded over a shared appreciation of history and art, take advantage of Malta’s cultural riches by hosting your wedding at a palace, fort, rustic villa or even a castle. Here are our favourites!
PALAZZO STAGNO
Palazzo Stagno
Perhaps not as well-known as its more well-established cousins, Palazzo Stagno, a 16th century palace, located in the heart of Qormi, has only recently become available for weddings and events. This private home, which caters for small celebrations of up to 200 people, boasts large rooms surrounding a large internal courtyard, with access to terraces overlooking an orchard. Built in 1589, it is one of the oldest buildings in the town and can be hired for civil ceremonies, sit down dinners and stand up receptions. And, you can even book an overnight stay in their Honeymoon Suite!
FORT ST ANGELO
Heritage Malta
One of the most imposing forts on the island, this historic gem can be yours for the night. The site of the now infamous victory during the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, Fort St Angelo is situated in the appropriately named Citta’ Vittoriosa (Birgu). It has recently been restored and the drawbridge lifted for unique celebrations overlooking the Grand Harbour. You cannot get more vintage than this!
FORT ST ELMO
Heritage Malta
Well, maybe you can. Fort St Elmo was also the site of historic battles during the Knight’s stay in Malta. Roll out the red carpet and be the star for the day – this was also the filming location of some of Hollywood’s most famous historical fiction: Midnight Express and The Count of Monte Cristo. Also recently restored, there are plenty of areas to choose from within the ramparts: hold your reception in one of the large open-air terraces, the main square, called Piazza D’Armi, or under the imposing arches of the Casemates Area.
VILHENA PALACE, MDINA
Heritage Malta
Now the site of the National Museum of Natural History, Vilhena Palace is nestled within the walls of the old capital. This eighteenth-century palace was designed in Parisian Baroque style and its dramatic façade, oval forms and heavy cornices will take you back in time. The majestic front yard is available for weddings and holds 400 people in a stand -up reception and 200 people for a sit-down meal. A storage area for caterers and restrooms are included.
PALAZZO PARISIO
Palazzo Parisio
Probably one of the most famous wedding venues on the island, Palazzo Parisio has for years signalled class, style and opulence. The ballroom is reminiscent of the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles and is truly breath taking: gilding and painted compositions, representing the Knights of St John, line the room. You can even host your very own banquet here! And, for spring or summer weddings, the gardens are just as stunning with their symmetrical forms and verdant abundance.
LIMESTONE HERITAGE
Limestone Heritage
This family run tourist attraction, celebrating the stone which forms the pediment of the Maltese islands, may not immediately spring to mind when you’re planning your wedding. But the venue’s landscaped gardens, farmhouse and 30-foot high waterfall are perfect for a rustic, or bohemian, celebration. Also available for civil ceremonies, the area can be dressed and lit in the style of your choice.
VILLA BIGHI ESPLANADE
Heritage Malta
This outdoor venue, dominated by its neo-classical building, used as the Royal Navy Hospital during British Colonial times, overlooks stunning views of the Grand Harbour and Fort St Elmo. Larger weddings can be accommodated here: the esplanade holds 1000 people standing, and 600 seated. It is wheelchair accessible and also includes a garden lounge terrace.
MANOEL ISLAND
Karl Borg Events
Built in the eighteenth century by the Knights of Malta, and used by the British military from the nineteenth entury, this baroque fortress, situated in Marsamxett Harbour, has a stunning view of Valletta from its huge open-air terrace. The size and shape of the space can accommodate large marquees, and an extensive set up – perfect for big weddings!
VILLA BOLOGNA
Villa Bologna
Another popular venue, the grand Villa Bologna has hosted hundreds of weddings in the gardens at the front and the back of the house. The imposing villa, ensconced in the heart of Attard, was built in 1745 and has seen dignitaries and artistic luminaries walk through its doors. Notable visitors have included Lord Mountbatten and the writer and zoologist Desmond Morris, who spent five years here with his family. Lots of dates get booked up quickly, so if you’re keen to host your wedding here, book early!
CASTELLO ZAMITELLO
Island Caterers
Get married in your very own castle! Castello Zamitello is the real deal: built in 1675, the property boasts guard turrets, landscaped gardens and an imposing staircase. Situated on the outskirts of Mgarr, the venue caters for both indoor and outdoor events, whether stand-up or seated.