St. James Cavalier Centre for Creativity (Spazju Kreattiv)
Occupying a 16th-century fortification in old Valletta, the St. James’ Cavalier Centre for Creativity is Malta’s liveliest arts and culture hub. Dedicated to promoting cultural expression, this vibrant, government-funded complex features a theater, an arthouse cinema, and rolling art exhibitions, creative events, and workshops.
The basics
Cleverly incorporated into the sturdy stone structure of the St. James’ Cavalier—a former lookout and gun platform built after 1565’s Great Siege of Malta—the St. James’ Cavalier Centre revolves around a cylindrical 152-seater theater-in-the-round set inside the fortification’s former water reservoir. Visitors can buy tickets for plays, dramas, and shows staged in this impressive space; watch movies in the 105-seat theater, attend concerts in the recital hall; and enjoy a regularly changing roster of other events including workshops, masterclasses, lectures, and courses and experiences for children.
Things to know before you go
- Events at the St. James’ Cavalier Center will appeal to art, theater, movie, and culture buffs.
- Most areas and activities staged at the center are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
- On-site amenities include restrooms and a cafe.
- Exhibitions are free-to-enter, while most other events are ticketed.
How to get there
Situated on Valetta’s pedestrianized Castille Square above the Upper Barrakka Gardens; the St. James’ Cavalier is best reached on foot if you’re coming from anywhere in the old city. If you’re traveling from another part of Malta, take a bus to Valletta’s main A1 bus station, near the Triton Fountain. Then, walk northward through the City Gate, turn right into Pope Pius V Street, and continue to Castille Square. Car parking is available near the Triton.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The St. James’ Cavalier Centre is open daily, with extended hours during the weekend.. If you want to just explore the exhibitions, arrive in the morning, when the center is at its quietest. If you plan to see a film or attend a workshop, it’s best to check ahead for schedule details.
Nearby Attractions
Whether you visit the St. James’ Cavalier for a show, movie, workshop, or simply to view its art exhibitions, spare time to check out two of Valletta’s nearby must-sees. Admire the graceful baroque exterior of the Auberge de Castille—the seat of Malta’s Prime Minister—which also stands on Castille Square. Then, walk on to the Saluting Battery at the Upper Barrakka Gardens to experience one of the twice-daily cannon firings.
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- Auberge de Castille
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- Upper Barrakka Gardens
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- St. John's Co-Cathedral (Kon-Katidral ta' San Gwann)
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