Statue of Queen Victoria, Valletta

In the heart of Malta's capital, Valletta, stands a dignified bronze statue of Queen Victoria, a memorial that pays homage to the island's historical ties with the British monarchy. Erected in 1891, the statue is prominently displayed in the Republic Square, formerly known as Queen's Square, and serves as a reminder of Malta's colonial past under British rule.

The statue portrays the iconic Queen seated, donning regal attire, and holding a scepter, symbolizing her reign over the British Empire, which once included Malta. The choice of Queen Victoria is particularly significant as her rule coincided with a period of intensified British influence on the island, which lasted until Malta's independence in 1964.

Visitors to Valletta will find the statue to be a focal point of the square, surrounded by historical buildings and bustling cafes, where locals and tourists alike gather. The memorial is not just a tribute to a monarch, but also a testament to the enduring relationship between Malta and the United Kingdom, a connection that has shaped much of the island's modern history.