The National Library

The National Library of Malta, in Valletta

The National Library of Malta, also known as the Bibliotheca, is a majestic institution of Valletta. The Valletta audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this building, which keeps a treasure of books and archives, including the memory of the knights.

The Bibliotheca and its treasures

The National Library of Malta, nicknamed the Bibliotheca, keeps hundreds of thousands of volumes as well as precious archives, including those of the Order of St John. Located in a majestic building in the centre of Valletta, it testifies to the importance given to knowledge and to the memory of the Order. Its solemn reading room makes it an impressive place, a guardian of the history of Malta.

What to see

You admire the majestic building and its solemn reading room, guardians of an immense collection of books and archives, including the memory of the knights. The Bibliotheca illustrates the attachment of Malta to knowledge and to its history. It is a stop for lovers of heritage and places full of memory, in the heart of Valletta.

Practical information

The National Library lies in the heart of Valletta, reachable on foot. A working institution, it may be visited according to its own hours and conditions, which vary; access to some rooms may be reserved. It is best to enquire before coming and to respect the calm of the place.

What does the National Library of Malta keep?

Hundreds of thousands of volumes and precious archives, including those of the Order of St John; it is nicknamed the Bibliotheca.

Where is the National Library of Malta?

In the heart of Valletta, capital of Malta.