Palazzo Parisio: Malta's Mini Versailles

Palazzo Parisio is one of my hands-down favourite places on the island. This 18th century palazzo, built by the Grand Master de Vilhena (read more about his work in Mdina in a previous post here), is open to the public as a private museum run by the mother-daughter team Christine Ramsay Scicluna, Baroness of Tabria, and Justine Pergola.

Mike and I paid a visit (our third) to the palazzo last weekend, and since I can't stop coming back to this magical place I bit the bullet and bought an annual membership - which means 10% off at their gorgeous gift shop and the Luna Collection of restaurants and cafes, as well as free entry to the palazzo (but let's be honest, it's just a good excuse to come here as often as I like). Sometimes I shake my head when I catch myself buying memberships to 18th century palazzos and think how did I get here? Pinch me.

I was thrilled to climb the palazzo's marble staircase to the piano nobile and find the ballroom set for a banquet. In a word: gold Stunning. I'll let the photos do the talking (it's not hard to see why Palazzo Parisio is referred to as Malta's miniature Versailles). And if you ever find yourself in Malta, don't miss this lovely hidden gem. Oprah didn't. 

Located in the village of Naxxar, Palazzo Parisio is the perfect size to wander around in less than an hour. General admission is €12, audio guides are provided to visitors, and the palazzo is open 9am-6pm daily. If you time your visit right you can finish your tour just in time for afternoon tea at Caffe Luna - an elegant treat. Don't forget your camera (and your biggest darkest sunglasses for some excellent people watching!)

- Jess

the ballroom at palazzo parisio set for a banquet

the courtyard of Palazzo Parisio, with Caffe Luna diners eating al fresco

the ballroom of Palazzo Parisio

banquet for the Bailliage National de Malte of the Chaine des Rotisseurs

Palazzo Parisio's music room

the ceiling of Palazzo Parisio's ballroom

the ballroom of Palazzo Parisio

the landing in Palazzo Parisio

the grand staircase

in the gardens

Palazzo Parisio's gardens in March.