Rabat — The Maltese Town the Guidebooks Miss | Journal Gozo

Mdina and Rabat stand next to each other, separated only by a moat and a park, but they are two different worlds. Mdina is an aristocratic, silent stage set. Rabat is a normal, living city — loud, hearty and smelling of food.

Crystal Palace (Serkin) — Pastizzi at Any Hour

The most famous pastizzeria on the island. Open almost around the clock. Regular customers include taxi drivers, politicians, students and fishermen coming back at dawn. If it is full — that is a quality sign. Pastizzi warm, crispy, several varieties.

St. Paul's Catacombs

Right at the Mdina-Rabat boundary — the entrance to the largest underground tomb labyrinth on Malta. See the separate article. Ticket €6.

Church of St. Agatha and Frescoes

Near one of the catacombs entrances — a church with a crypt and medieval frescoes. Rarely visited but interesting.

Craft Museum and Bazaar

Along Rabat's main street several shops with local souvenirs, Maltese ceramics and handicrafts. Less touristy than Republic Street in Valletta, more honestly priced.

Moat Park

Mdina's former defensive moat is now a quiet park. The perfect place for a break after the catacombs, before you walk back through the gate into the Silent City.

Combine Mdina and Rabat in one day. Morning — Mdina (before the crowds), noon — catacombs (cool and pleasant in summer), afternoon — pastizzi at Crystal Palace and a walk through Rabat. An excellent combination for minimal cost.