A Hotel in Time: The Story of Malta’s Oldest Stone Hotel

Imagine waking up to the gentle rustling of ancient stones, each one whispering tales of centuries past. This is not a dream, but a reality at the Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux, Malta’s oldest stone hotel, nestled in the heart of Mdina.

Carved from History

The Xara Palace stands as a testament to Malta’s rich history, its stone walls echoing the echoes of knights, nobles, and commoners who once walked its corridors. Built in the 17th century, it was originally a palace for the noble de Redin family. Today, it’s a luxury hotel, but the past is ever-present, etched into every nook and cranny.

Mdina, the ‘Silent City’, provides the perfect backdrop for this historic gem. With its narrow, winding streets and stunning bastions, it’s a step back in time. The hotel’s location on St. Paul Street places it right at the heart of this medieval citadel, offering guests a unique blend of old and new.

Memory in Every Corner

The Xara Palace is not just a hotel; it’s a living museum, a sanctuary of memories. Each room is a unique blend of old and new, with modern amenities coexisting harmoniously with ancient stone walls and wooden beams. The Knight’s Suite, for instance, boasts a four-poster bed and an antique writing desk, while the en-suite bathroom offers a contemporary rain shower.

But it’s not just about the rooms. The hotel’s Restaurant de Mondion serves up more than just delicious food. It serves up history, with its vaulted ceilings and stone walls dating back to the 14th century. The Palace Spa, too, is a sanctuary of serenity, its modern facilities contrasting beautifully with the ancient stonework.

Preserving a Disappearing Malta

The Xara Palace is more than just a hotel. It’s a labor of love, a commitment to preserving Malta’s rich history. As modern buildings spring up across the island, this hotel stands as a reminder of what once was, and what could still be.

But time is a relentless force, and even the oldest stones must yield to its passage. The Xara Palace, too, faces challenges. The cost of upkeep is high, and the demand for modern, sleek hotels is strong. But the hotel’s owners remain committed to preserving its historic charm.

“We could have torn down the old walls and built something new,” says the hotel’s manager, Mario Debono. “But we chose to preserve them, to honor the past. Because Malta’s history is worth more than just a few extra euros.”

And so, the Xara Palace stands, a beacon of old stone and new life, a testament to Malta’s rich history, and a reminder of what’s worth preserving in this rapidly changing world.