Inquisitor's Palace

The Inquisitor's Palace in Birgu — Malta's former capital under the Knights of St John — served as the official residence and court of the papal inquisitors of Malta from 1574 until 1798, making it one of the very few purpose-built inquisition seats to survive intact anywhere in the world. The building's foundations date to the 16th century, and its cross-vaulted chambers still carry the carved graffiti left by prisoners in the holding cells below. Notably, the Maltese inquisition was far less lethal than its Spanish or Italian counterparts: over 200 years, more than 1,000 cases were heard, yet executions were extremely rare, with most trials targeting bigamy, witchcraft, and minor heresy. Now managed by Heritage Malta, the palace presents restored audience halls, original prison cells, and detailed exhibits on inquisitorial procedure alongside occasional art exhibitions. Open daily 09:00–17:00; admission fee applies.