Imagine walking through the narrow cobbled streets of an ancient city surrounded by high yellow walls, where there is no noise from car horns, loudspeakers, or traffic. Even pedestrians speak very quietly. This scene might seem like something from a science fiction film, but it is reality. The city of Mdina, located on the European island of Malta, is known worldwide as the 'Silent City.'
Mdina originally served as the old capital of Malta and has a rich history spanning about 4000 years. It was initially founded by the Phoenicians around 800 BC, after which the Romans ruled the city. During Arab rule, the city was named 'Mdina,' which means 'besieged city' in Arabic.
However, events occurred that led to this important city becoming so quiet. In the 1530s, when the Knights of St. John took control of Malta, they moved their administrative and strategic capital to the coastal city of Valletta. After the capital's relocation, Mdina's political and commercial importance began to decline. Most merchants, government officials, and wealthy residents left the city and settled in the new center. Soon the bustling city emptied, and a deep silence descended upon it, after which it began to be called the 'Silent City.'
A period of stricter regulations followed. After the city emptied, Mdina formed a new identity by making tranquility its main strength. Today, the population of Mdina is extremely small—only about 250–300 citizens permanently reside here. To preserve its historical heritage and peace, the city has introduced very strict rules.
Entry of external vehicles and tourists into the city is completely forbidden. Inside, only limited vehicles with special permits for residents, as well as emergency services such as ambulance and fire department, are allowed to move. Local residents operating transport in the city also cannot use a horn. Furthermore, holding events with loud music or noise late at night is strictly prohibited.
Tourists arriving here are informed at the entrance about the need to respect the silence and avoid loud conversations. Mdina's silence is also largely due to the city's unique architecture. The narrow and winding streets were designed to protect archers during enemy attacks in the Middle Ages. These tight passages not only prevent strong winds but also block external noise.
Stepping into Mdina, it feels as if time has stopped. Palaces in Norman and Baroque styles, St. Paul's Cathedral, and limestone buildings shine golden under the sun. This city is popular among Hollywood filmmakers and TV series creators due to its mysterious silence and medieval beauty. For example, many early scenes of 'King's Landing' in the popular fantasy series 'Game of Thrones' were filmed at the historic main gates and streets of Mdina. Additionally, the city's historical landscapes have been used in many other Hollywood films.
Today, Mdina is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malta. Tourists visit during the day to admire the history and architecture, but as soon as the sun sets and the tourists leave, Mdina reveals its true character. The streets, illuminated by soft yellow light, and the surrounding silence transport every visitor to a unique, peaceful, and magical world.