Inquisitor's Palace

About

The Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu, Malta, is a remarkable blend of architectural splendor and historical depth. Originally constructed in the 1530s as a courthouse known as the Castellania, the building later became the seat of the Maltese Inquisition from 1574 until 1798. Today, it serves as both a historic house museum and Malta’s National Museum of Ethnography, offering visitors a unique window into the island’s legal, religious, and cultural past. Steeped in centuries of transformation, the palace showcases a labyrinthine interior featuring the Inquisition Courtroom, Torture Chamber, and Grand Staircase. Each hall tells a story—from the austere tribunal chambers where inquisitors exercised judicial power to the domestic kitchen spaces that reveal everyday life in Malta’s past. The site also houses a collection of textiles and historical artifacts, emphasizing the everyday cultural life under the Knights and the British. Visitors can explore the richly furnished rooms, experience guided tours for deeper insight, and enjoy a curated educational program that highlights the lives of inquisitors, the architecture of the palace, and the broader impact of the Inquisition on Maltese society. The museum’s ticketing structure includes adult, youth, and senior rates, with concessions for students and free entry for Heritage Malta members and passport holders, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors. The palace sits at Main Gate Street in Birgu (Vittoriosa) and is open daily, offering a cultural experience that combines historical intrigue with architectural beauty.

Highlights

• Historic House Museum
• National Ethnography Collection
• Inquisition Courtroom
• Grand Staircase
• Punitive Cell

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Tickets & pricing