Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu – Walking Tour

If you’re looking to explore Malta beyond its sunny beaches and historic temples, the Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the darker, more mysterious side of the island’s history. Led by Mario, an ex-BBC journalist with a knack for storytelling, this two-hour walk takes you through the alleys of Birgu, revealing stories of witchcraft, ghosts, and treachery that are often left out of traditional guides.

What sets this tour apart? First, it dives into Malta’s witchcraft practices from the 16th to 18th centuries, explaining how spells and curses were cast for love, revenge, or healing. Second, it uncovers ghost stories linked to the city’s palazzos and fortifications, offering an eerie sense of what might still linger in the shadows. Lastly, it visits key locations like the site of Malta’s biggest explosion and the house of Malta’s executioner—places you won’t find in typical tourist routes.

The only potential drawback? The tour’s focus on Malta’s darker stories may not appeal to those seeking lighthearted sightseeing. It’s best suited for curious travelers interested in authentic, lesser-known tales. If you’re into history with a side of the supernatural, this experience will be right up your alley.

Good To Know

• Authentic stories: Led by a passionate guide using archives and rare books for a genuine experience.
• Historic depth: Explore Birgu, an older city than Valletta, with its twisting backstreets and hidden secrets.
• Dark tales: Learn about witchcraft, curses, and ghostly legends that add a spine-tingling layer to Malta’s history.
• Engaging storytelling: Mario’s background as a journalist makes these stories both entertaining and credible.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or people with low fitness levels.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Duration

This two-hour walking tour begins in the open area outside the Advanced Gate of Birgu, a historic city older than the nearby capital of Valletta. The meeting point is easy to find, just a short walk from the waterfront, though Google Maps’ pin placement can be a little confusing as it shows the location inside the gate, while the actual meeting spot is outside.

The tour is a comfortably paced stroll through Birgu’s back streets and fortifications. Because it’s limited to two hours, the experience remains engaging without feeling rushed, making it accessible for most travelers. It’s also worth noting that the tour ends back at the starting point, which is convenient for further sightseeing or returning to accommodations.

What You’ll Learn and See

Witchcraft in Malta is a theme woven throughout the walk. Your guide, Mario, shares insights about the spells and incantations used to influence love, break curses, or cure fears. You’ll find out which rituals were popular in Malta’s past and how they operated in secret, often hidden within everyday life.

One standout story involves Malta’s witchcraft trials, a dark chapter that reveals how accusations could lead to severe punishments. You might also hear about the church visited by the Devil himself, adding an element of supernatural intrigue.

Ghost stories form a large part of the tour’s appeal. Birgu’s palazzos and fortifications are said to be haunted, and the guide recounts tales of spectral sightings and tragic murders, like the story of a priest who murdered his lover on her doorstep. The atmosphere is enhanced by Mario’s storytelling, which blends historical facts with a hint of theatrical flair, making the legends come alive.

Key Locations and Stories

• The site of Malta’s biggest explosion: This remains a significant historical point, with stories about the destruction and its aftermath still lingering in local memory.
• The house of the executioner: A grim yet fascinating glimpse into Malta’s past judicial practices.
• The church with supernatural tales: The church is reputedly visited by dark forces, adding to the eerie aura of the tour.
• Old prisons and fortifications: These structures are not just architectural relics but vessels of ghostly legends.

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The Guide’s Approach and Value

Mario’s background as a former BBC journalist shines through. He uses dusty archives, old newspapers, and rare books to craft stories that are entertaining and insightful. Past visitors have noted his passion, humor, and clear insight, which create a lively and authentic atmosphere.

The Cost and What’s Included

The tour’s price reflects the value of expert storytelling combined with access to lesser-known local tales. While not specified, reviews suggest it offers good value considering the depth and quality of narration. The experience is strictly guided, and no additional inclusions are listed beyond the storytelling and the meeting point.

Accessibility and Practical Information

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with a low level of fitness, mainly due to the uneven streets and walking involved. It’s also conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers from English-speaking countries. The free cancellation policy, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, provides flexibility for shifting travel plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave a more authentic and darker side of Maltese history. If you enjoy ghost stories, folklore, or stories of witchcraft and rituals, you’ll likely find this tour captivating. It’s ideal for those interested in uncovering stories that are rarely told in guidebooks, giving a more textured understanding of Birgu’s past.

History buffs will appreciate the detailed stories backed by archives, while those with a taste for the supernatural will thrill at the ghostly legends. Conversely, if you prefer light, easy sightseeing, or need wheelchair accessibility, this may not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu tour offers a rich, atmospheric experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. It combines historical facts, local legends, and ghost stories into a compelling narrative that reveals Malta’s darker, secretive past. Led by Mario’s engaging storytelling and research, it appeals to travelers looking for a deeper connection with the island’s history.

While the focus on dark tales might not suit everyone, those who enjoy folklore, ghost stories, or quirky history will find this tour well worth their time. It’s a unique way to explore Birgu’s hidden corners, adding a layer of mystique and intrigue to your Malta adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is generally more geared towards adults due to its dark themes and stories of murder, ghosts, and witchcraft. Younger children might find some stories too intense or frightening.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable and engaging experience that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Where exactly do we meet?
The meeting point is outside the Advanced Gate, in the open space overlooking Birgu Waterfront. Be aware that Google Maps’ pin might be confusing, so look for the open area just outside the gate.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour is in English, led by a guide experienced in storytelling and local history.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel schedule.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with low fitness levels due to the uneven terrain and walking involved.

What’s the value of this experience?
Considering the depth of stories told by a knowledgeable guide, it offers excellent value for those interested in Malta’s hidden stories and supernatural legends, adding a memorable layer to your trip.

Embark on this intriguing journey through Birgu’s shadowy past and uncover stories that are rarely spoken about but forever etched into Malta’s history. A perfect pick for travelers craving something different, a little spooky, and endlessly fascinating.

You can check if your dates are available here: