Introduction
The Wignacourt Museum, located in Rabat, Malta is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the island’s fascinating history. This museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and relics relating to Malta’s past, including items from the Order of St. John, a powerful religious-military organization that dominated the island for centuries. The museum is named after its founder, Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, and serves as a reminder of Malta’s past in a stunning setting.
History of Wignacourt Museum
The Wignacourt Museum was founded in 1610 by Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt, who was the 60th Grand Master of the Order of St. John. During his reign, he sought to promote the culture and history of Malta and to create a place where these artifacts could be preserved. The museum opened its doors in 1610 and has since become a popular tourist destination for those wishing to learn more about the island’s past.
The museum is located in the old city of Rabat and is made up of two parts: the main building and the cloister. The main building houses the museum’s vast collection of artifacts and relics, which include coins, medals, weapons, and artwork. The cloister is a stunning courtyard surrounded by arches and columns that was once part of the original monastery.
What to See at Wignacourt Museum
The Wignacourt Museum is home to a wide array of artifacts, relics, and artwork from Malta’s past. Some of the highlights include:
- Coin Collection: The museum houses an impressive collection of coins that span centuries of Maltese history. From ancient Greek coins to coins from the Order of St. John, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
- Medals and Weapons: The museum also has a large collection of medals and weapons from the Order of St. John, as well as other militaries.
- Artwork: The museum is home to a wide selection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.
Visiting Wignacourt Museum
The Wignacourt Museum is open to the public daily from 10am to 5pm, except on public holidays. The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with buses and taxis available from Valletta or Sliema. Visitors should also note that the museum is not wheelchair accessible.
The museum has an admission fee of €7 for adults and €4 for children. This fee covers the cost of entry into the museum and access to the cloister.
Conclusion
The Wignacourt Museum is a must-see destination for those interested in learning more about Malta’s past. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and relics from the island’s history, including coins, medals, weapons, and artwork. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the museum’s exhibits and admiring the stunning cloister. With its convenient location and reasonable admission fee, the Wignacourt Museum is a great way to experience the history of Malta in a beautiful setting.