A Hotel Where Time Stands Still: The Story of Xara Palace

Tucked away in the heart of Mdina, Malta’s ancient fortified city, lies a hotel that’s not just a place to stay, but a living museum. Xara Palace, a 17th-century nobleman’s palace, has been meticulously restored to offer guests a unique experience: a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in Malta’s rich history.

Stone, Silence, and Secrets

As you walk through the heavy wooden door, you’re greeted by the cool, quiet embrace of the palace. The walls, made of the same golden limestone that characterizes Mdina, whisper tales of centuries past. Each step echoes on the worn stone floors, now polished to a warm glow. The silence is profound, broken only by the distant hum of Mdina’s streets and the soft rustle of the palace’s own secrets.

The palace was built in 1755 by Grand Master Manuel Pinto de Fonseca. It’s said that he chose this spot for its panoramic views over the island, and its proximity to the Mdina Cathedral. Today, those same views stretch out from the palace’s windows, offering guests a glimpse into Malta’s past and present.

Memory as Decor

Xara Palace is not just a hotel; it’s a labor of love. The owners, the Azzopardi family, have painstakingly restored the palace, filling it with antiques and artifacts that tell the story of Malta. Each piece has a history, a memory attached to it. The grand piano in the lobby was once played by Malta’s first Prime Minister, Dom Mintoff. The paintings on the walls are by local artists, their stories woven into the fabric of Maltese culture.

The palace’s 17 suites are named after Maltese historical figures, each one a testament to the island’s rich past. The ‘Dame Malta’ suite, for instance, is dedicated to Mary sa Pietà, the first woman to be awarded the George Cross for her bravery during World War II. Staying here is not just about luxury; it’s about connection, about feeling a part of something bigger than oneself.

A Disappearing Malta

Xara Palace is a testament to Malta’s architectural heritage, a heritage that’s under threat. As the island develops, many of its historic buildings are being lost, replaced by modern structures. Xara Palace stands as a reminder of what could be lost, and what can be saved.

The palace is not just a monument to the past; it’s a symbol of hope for the future. The Azzopardis’ commitment to restoration and preservation is a beacon, showing that it’s possible to balance progress with heritage. They’ve shown that old stone can be made new again, that memory can be a form of decoration, that history can be a living, breathing thing.

Xara Palace is more than a hotel. It’s a time capsule, a love letter to Malta’s past, and a promise for its future. It’s a place where time stands still, where history is not just something you read about, but something you can touch, feel, and experience.

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