Victoria Gate
When Valletta was founded (1566) it had three gates. The main entrance (Porta San Giorgio) and the Marsamxett Gate on the other side of the city an the gate at this location “The Del Monte gate”. The gate is named after grand master Pierre de Monte. The original “Del Monte Gate” was built in 1569 to a design by the Italian military engineer Francesco Laparelli. In front of the gate there was a drawbridge and a ditch. All gates are part of the fortification of the city.
The gate was also called the Marina Gate “Porta Marina”.
In the vicinity of the gate it was bustling with activity and there was a marina, the fish market, Church of Our Lady of Liesse and a garden known as Ġnien is-Sultan.
Around 1880, the area around “The Del Monte gate” was the busiest part of the Valletta and became too small. The Del Monte gate was demolished in 1884 and replaced by a larger gate.
The larger gate was designed by Maltese architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia, the foundation stone was laid by Governor Arthur Borton and was completed in 1885.
The two arches (pedestrian tunnels) are surmounted by the coats of arms of Malta and Valletta, and the gate is topped by the British coat of arms.The gate "Victoria gate" is named after Queen Victoria.
Around 2010 the "Vitoria Gate" was renovated. The ditch has been built up in recent years and has been restored to its original state as much as possible.
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Additional information
Below: Sketch painting (around 1800) in pen, ink and wash of "The Del Monte gate".
Below: Sketch 1874, overview situation “The Del Monte gate”.
Below: Sketch Valletta side of “The Del Monte gate” (Lithograph 1844).
Below: “Victoria Gate” seen from above.
Below: “Vicoria Gate” seen from the Grand Habour from.
Below: The “Marsamxett Gate” (other side of Valletta).
