On December 9, 2025, Malta took a step closer to commemorating its national identity in a way that blends tradition, pride, and a dash of modern luxury. Lawmakers advanced a proposal to establish a National Anthem Day and to enshrine the capital city, Valletta, in the country’s constitution, according to reporting by Malta Independent. While the move has stirred up patriotic sentiment and lively debate about Maltese heritage, it also shines a spotlight on Valletta itself—and the experiences that define it for both locals and visitors.
Just outside the historic city gates, The Phoenicia Malta stands as a living testament to the island’s resilience and elegance. Reviewed on December 9, 2025, by The Independent, this hotel is more than just a place to rest your head—it’s a slice of Maltese history wrapped in Mediterranean luxury. The Phoenicia, which proudly claims the title of Malta’s first five-star hotel, is nestled in Floriana, mere steps from the heart of Valletta. Despite its proximity to the bustling bars and restaurants of the capital, the hotel offers a tranquil escape, thanks to its seven acres of lush gardens and the imposing fortification walls that shield it from the city’s nighttime energy.
The story of The Phoenicia is intertwined with Malta’s own turbulent past. Construction began just before World War II, but progress was halted when bombing raids damaged the building. The foundations, however, held strong—a metaphor, perhaps, for Malta’s own endurance through centuries of conflict and change. The hotel finally opened its doors in 1947, welcoming its very first guest in the shadow of a world newly at peace. Not long after, in 1949, the hotel played host to Princess Elizabeth, marking its place in the annals of royal history. Today, the hotel’s art collection pays homage to its heritage, featuring works by renowned Maltese artist Edward Caruana Dingli. There’s even a “living gallery” that showcases a different local artist each month, ensuring the property remains as dynamic as the city it borders.
For travelers, the Phoenicia is a gateway to Valletta’s storied streets and sweeping harbor views. The hotel boasts 132 rooms, ranging from classic to deluxe, each styled with Mediterranean flair—think deep blues, creamy hues, and calming decor that echoes the 1940s architecture. While the rooms and bathrooms lean toward the cozy side, the effect is one of intimacy rather than cramped quarters. The real showstopper, though, is the balcony. Guests lucky enough to have one are treated to stunning vistas across Malta, with a small table and chairs perfect for a late-night drink as the city lights twinkle below.
Of course, no luxury stay would be complete without attentive service, and The Phoenicia’s staff are, by all accounts, eager to please. According to The Independent, the hotel’s team “couldn’t have been more eager to help with any requests or queries, ensuring we were well looked after throughout our stay.” Special mention goes to the restaurant and spa staff, who go above and beyond to cater to dietary needs and personal comfort. Guests with coeliac disease, for instance, can rest easy knowing the kitchen offers a wide range of gluten-free options and takes care to avoid cross-contamination. While service for gluten-free dishes is sometimes slower, the reviewer notes, “I am always happy to wait, as it suggests the kitchen staff are working carefully to ensure my safety.”
The hotel’s main restaurant, Contessa, is a haven for seafood lovers, with a focus on seasonal dishes and local produce. Standout menu items include a red prawn crudo “deliciously drenched in olive oil” and pagru—a local sea bream—crisped to perfection. Breakfast is also a treat, with freshly prepared items and a made-to-order egg station ensuring no guest goes hungry. The culinary experience is matched only by the hotel’s facilities. The spa, with its heated pool and softly lit salted sauna, offers a tranquil retreat, especially during the cooler off-season months. The signature massage is described as “almost ritualistic in nature,” blending hot stones and bamboo for a unique, deeply relaxing treatment. Outside, the pristine gardens and an inviting infinity pool beckon guests to soak up the Maltese sunshine—or simply marvel at the panoramic views of Marsamxett Harbour.
The Phoenicia’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is also noteworthy. Accessible twin rooms feature wet room flooring, lower sinks, and higher-level toilets, ensuring comfort for all guests. Pets up to 12 kilograms are welcome, with dedicated pet-friendly rooms and gardens for walks, and furry companions are even allowed at dinner. Families are also embraced, with children of any age welcome and cots provided free of charge for babies up to two years old. The only caveat? No extra beds, and children aged 13 and above are charged as adults.
Check-in begins at 3pm, with check-out at noon, though early arrivals and late departures can often be accommodated, subject to availability. The hotel’s location, just a short drive from Malta International Airport and a stone’s throw from Valletta’s main attractions, makes it an ideal base for exploring both the city and the island beyond. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of golden-hued villages, warm seas, or simply the allure of a luxurious break, The Phoenicia offers a taste of Maltese hospitality at its finest.
As Malta considers new ways to celebrate its national identity—through a dedicated National Anthem Day and the constitutional recognition of Valletta—the capital’s enduring charm and the legacy of places like The Phoenicia take on renewed significance. These traditions and institutions, old and new, remind visitors and citizens alike of the island’s unique spirit: resilient, welcoming, and always evolving.
In a country where history is never far from the present, and where every stone seems to tell a story, the move to enshrine Valletta in the constitution feels like a natural next step. And for those lucky enough to experience the city—whether wandering its ancient streets or sipping a drink on a hotel balcony as the sun sets over Marsamxett Harbour—it’s clear that Malta’s capital is more than just a place on a map. It’s a living, breathing symbol of national pride, and a destination that continues to enchant all who pass through its gates.
