Casa Rocca Piccola

The basics

In addition to the wonderful collection of 18th- and 19th-century fashions, the palace contains family heirlooms and a wide selection of arts and antiques. Tours visit the Palladian family chapel, a marble-floored art nouveau dining room laid out for a banquet, and elegant bedrooms with carved four-poster beds. Tours generally also bring visitors into the cramped bomb shelters that were converted from old cisterns during the heavy bombardment of Malta in World War II.

Things to know before you go

• Casa Rocca Piccola is a must-visit for fans of history and interior design.

• Tours take place in English, with laminated cards available in other major languages.

• Admission is free for children under age 14; older students are given discounted admission.

• Parts of the house are wheelchair accessible, and there’s an elevator from street level to the area where tours take place. The bomb shelter is not accessible to wheelchair users.

How to get there

Casa Rocca Piccola is located on Republic Street in the heart of Valletta, about a 5-minute walk from the bus terminal. It’s easiest to reach on foot, as much of the old town is pedestrianized. If you have a car, you’re best off parking it in one of the designated areas outside of the city center, then walking from there.

When to get there

The palace is open from Monday to Saturday, and closed on Sundays and public holidays. Guided tours start on the hour, and take about 45 minutes; an audio-tour app is available as well. Private Champagne tours are also available with advance request, and are led by the Marquis and Marchioness de Piro themselves.

See the Grand Master's Palace

A 3-minute walk from Casa Rocca Piccola, the 16th-century Grand Master's Palace is another Valletta must-visit for fans of history, architecture, and elaborate interiors. Highlights include ornate courtyards and staterooms adorned with lavish murals and rich tapestries. Tours of the city and shore excursions often stop at both the Casa and the Palace.