Getting to know Birgu

A carless Monday found us exploring the city of Birgu and surrounds on foot…

After a morning of work (for Sue), gym (for Kat and George) and eating and washing (for Russell), the unanimous decision was to head to the Birgu waterhole for a much needed swim.

Of course, Russ and Sue stopped for a coffee on the way. A cool dip and a nap on the waters edge was enough for Sue and Russ. Time to explore!

We walked the backside of the Birgu waters edge and fortress towards the town of Kalkara, soaking up the sights and sounds of a Maltese Monday. The odd chat to the locals on the way.

Boats at moorings and boatyards, preparing for a summer on the sea..Kalkara is still a bit untouched by the frantic tourist trade, but obviously only a step away, with boutique hotels noticeably being restored on the waters edge.

A shady stop at the public loo and a rest in the shade before heading back into the Birgu fortress walls.

Walking in the restored gardens between the two towering walls. The original wall of old Birgu and the fortifications of the 2nd wall built in the 1600s (the era of the knights).

The original stairways unearthed in the restoration of the walls and gardens.

Olive trees and the merest hint of grass in the gardens, providing some much needed shade and still green and surviving in what promises to be a very long hot summer.

A bit of a climb out, but we did well, ducking and diving for each hint of shade (and a little rest). We didn’t realise the outside walls at the entrance were so long and more exploring is in order…..the residential areas behind these walls, but that is for another day. We had already had a good two hours on foot, and a cool drink and lunch were beckoning.

Where are the young ones you may ask? Kat is still soaking up the sunshine at the waterhole, George has been home, eaten, slept and headed back to his girl! Russ having a nap now, one and all in their happy places! Me it’s 4pm – cisk time for this Maltese Kiwi!