While we live in Malta, most of us do not really find the time to ever visit the island's many fantastic museums. In this list, we've tried to include different museums to suit a range of interests. From creepy death masks to amazing historical facts and super interesting maps, on this list, you'll find 5 museums in Malta and Gozo which you should visit this summer. 

It is best to double-check the opening hours before visiting, as they might be affected by the summer shutdown or Covid-19. 

1. Inquisitor's Palace

The Inquisitor's Palace is a personal favourite on the list. Not only does it have a very rich history, but it also houses several architectural and historical gems. In this majestic palace, you can view many exhibits that include bleak prison cells, a brief history of Valletta's Manderaggio and a collection of crabby Inquisitors' portraits.

2. Gran Castello Historic House 

This Gozo-based museum will give you a glimpse into Malta's domestic and rural past. The building itself is nothing short of an utter beauty — with its late Gothic architectural style fused with Catalan influences. The Gran Castello Historic House hosts exhibits related to local crafts, trades and skills — mainly agriculture, cotton and fishing. 

3. Gozo Museum Of Archaeology

If you are a history buff — particularly Roman, Arab, Phoenician and Medieval Christian history buff, the Gozo Museum of Archaeology is a must-visit for you. At this museum, you can find a mesmerising collection of sculptures found at the Xaghra Circle and Ggantija Temple, along with remnants of Arab culture in Gozo — including a breathtaking marble tombstone dating back to the 12th century.

4. Wignacourt Museum 

If you are a lover of classical arts, visiting the Wignacourt Museum will be a bit like stepping into heaven. This amazing building is home to an eclectic collection of Mattia Preti, Francesco Zahra, and Antoine de Favray paintings. At this lush 17th century building you can admire unique pieces such as European silver collections, reliquaries, alabaster sculptures, maps, coins and rare books. Among the many treasures housed in this wonderful museum, you can find Cosmana Navarra's death mask. 

5. Hagar Qim Park Visitor Centre

Okay, so technically, these are sites rather than just a museum, but have you recently visited one of these isolated beauties? This museum holds several historical wonders such as stone and clay statues. Moreover, thanks to a leisurely visit, you can better understand the way that the Maltese temples were built, admire paintings and photos of the sites when they were first discovered, and understand Malta's geological makeup. 

Would you like more ideas for things to do during the summer shutdown? Visit the activities page on Yellow