Palazzo Parisio
Naxxar, Malta, 1116
Built on the site of an 18th-century hunting lodge, the early 20th-century Palazzo Parisio is a palace in the old town of Naxxar, on the northwestern fringes of Valletta. Visitors are invited to explore the lavish estate and stroll around its formal garden, a beautiful, relaxing setting.
The basics
The brainchild of Malta’s Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna, who bought the original hunting lodge in 1898, today’s Palazzo Parisio is still owned by the Scicluna family. Visitors buy tickets to see the palace and garden, or the garden alone, and explore on a self-guided basis. Roam the interior to admire the grand staircase, banquet room, and family chapel before soaking in the tranquillity of the Italianate garden.
Rather than arranging your own trip to Naxxar, consider taking a sightseeing tour that includes round-trip transportation. Tours that cover the palace sometimes stop at other landmarks such as the Dingli Cliffs, and combo experiences pair a palace visit with other activities, such as wine tastings.
Things to know before you go
The palace and garden are largely wheelchair accessible.
Amenities include a restaurant and tearoom, plus restrooms.
On arrival, visitors receive a printed guide with details on the key rooms.
How to get there
Set in Naxxar’s busy Victory Square, the Palazzo Parisio can be reached by bus from Valletta. Catch the #46 to Gharghur at the city’s B8 stop, or the #31 to Bugibba from B5; both stop in central Naxxar. The #202 Rabat–Sliema bus stops there as well. You can also drive from Valletta to Naxxar via Triq Marina and Triq Tal Balal—you’ll see the palace directly opposite the town’s church. Parking is limited, so you may need to park elsewhere and walk back.
When to get there
The palace is open daily from morning to early evening, while its tearoom is open for afternoon tea. The restaurant is open daily until early evening, with extended dinner hours Thursday to Saturday. Reservations are recommended for afternoon tea and dinner.
What to see at the Palazzo Parisio
Aside from the gilded ballroom and Pompeiian-style dining room—complete with oil lamps mimicking those unearthed in Pompeii—don’t miss the trompe l’oeil door on the upstairs landing, which is a stunning optical illusion. For the full experience, finish with a walk in the garden to see its lawns, pond, citrus groves, and fern-filled orangery.
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