Castles & palaces
Cottonera Lines
Overview
The Cottonera Lines, also known as the Valperga Lines, are a network of 17th- to 18th-century defensive walls built to encircle Birgu and Bormla. Travellers visit to walk along the surviving ramparts and examine the massive stone bastions, gates, and ditches that illustrate Malta's historic fortification systems.
Getting There
The walls are reachable on foot from central Birgu in roughly 10 to 15 minutes. Regular bus routes connecting Valletta and the Three Cities also stop near several access points along the perimeter.
Time to Spend
Allow between 1 and 2 hours to walk along the accessible sections, view the defensive architecture, and explore the outer pathways.
When to Visit
Plan a visit for early morning or late afternoon to avoid mid-day heat, as the stone ramparts offer minimal shade. The extended perimeter rarely experiences heavy tourist crowding, making it easy to visit comfortably throughout the year.
Nearby Attractions
The ramparts can easily be combined with other points of interest in the immediate area:
- Our Lady of Victories Parish Church (1km)
- Mariam Al-Batool Mosque (1.2km)
- Malta Maritime Museum (1.2km)
- Tarxien Temples (1.2km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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