Sanglea or Isla, as it is otherwise referred to as, is one of the smallest of the three cities of Cottonera. It faces Valetta’s walled city on one side while itself being located on a peninsula that protrudes into Malta’s grand harbour. The entire area of Sanglea is only one-half of a square mile, thus making it one of the smallest cities of Malta. However, it is also the most densely populated one. Looking for ways to get to Sanglea from the Luqa airport? Check out https://www.cool.mt/routes/airport/to-airport/from-senglea/.
Sanglea is one of the oldest cities of the Maltese islands and dates back all the way to the 16th century. It is a true gem to visit. It has many structures that were undertaken by the Knights themselves, converting it into one of the most heavily fortified regions on the island. Enclosed by bastions, this location has a history attached to it like no other. You can still see the commanding views that were used to guard big and harbour. The naval dockyard of Sanglea was one of the primary targets when bombing attacks occurred over Malta. Sanglea suffered horribly, but recent rehabilitation of the yacht Marina has brought back attraction to the town.
Marija Bambina
The best way to truly see Sanglea is to take a stroll. You enjoy the town from the Sanglea gate, make your way first to the Marija Bambina, and its breath-taking oratory. The Marija Bambina is known for the miraculous Christ the Redeemer statue. Thus, this location attracts a lot of pilgrims.
Madonna tan-Nofs statue
Now walk down Main Street to the end of Sanglea. Here you will see many old houses with beautiful architecture which survived bombings. The Madonna tan-Nofs statue was put up as gratitude for surviving the 1813 plague. It is located on victory street.
St. Phillips church
Established in 1596 and rebuilt in 1690 by oratorians of St. Philip. The St. Phillips church was subsequently handed over to the Jesuits, and now it is under the care of Salesians. St. Philips was Malta’s first-ever community kitchen.
Gardjola gardens
This is the location that you should go to, for a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour. Do not forget to enter the watchtower to get a feel of what it was like to protect Malta during the period of the Great Siege.
Go for ferry rides, sit at the waterfront and hear the seven bell rings of the Baroque church, the basilica of the nativity of Mary. If you are planning to go, December is the best time. By then, the crowds who come during the summers have gone. The temperatures are mild, which makes walking and exploring much easier. You need not worry about carrying a load of winter clothes with you. Therefore, if you are planning a trip to Malta, do not forget to add Sanglea to your list. Without a visit to this location, your experience of Maltese island will remain incomplete.
