Kastilja, or the Castille Palace, is a dominant building in Castille Square, Valletta. Originally constructed in the 1570s as the residence of the Spanish knight Juan de Homedes y Coscon, the palace became the headquarters of the Order of St. John’s administrative and military arm. Over the centuries, it has hosted various rulers and governors, reflecting the changing tides of Malta’s governance.
Since the 18th century, it has served as the official office of the Prime Minister of Malta, symbolizing the Maltese government. Castille Palace’s Baroque architecture, with its imposing façade and grand interiors, overlooks the Grand Harbour, making it a key site in Malta’s political and social life.
Visitors to the Upper Barrakka Gardens can enjoy a direct view of Castille Palace, appreciating its historical significance and architectural grandeur from one of Valletta’s most picturesque vantage points. These landmarks—Upper Barrakka Gardens, the Old Customs House, and Kastilja—each tell a part of Valletta’s evolution from a fortified city to a vibrant European capital, weaving together threads of history, commerce, and governance.
