From imposing bastions to rich Baroque churches and traditional limestone townhouses, Maltese architecture reflects centuries of Mediterranean influence and local craftsmanship. Across the Islands, ancient temples, grand palaces, narrow streets and colourful balconies together tell the story of the rich architectural heritage of Malta and Gozo.
To showcase notable architectural landmarks in Malta and Gozo, MaltaPost is issuing a new philatelic set of four stamps.
The 0.20 stamp features two distinguished residences overlooking St Paul's Square in Mdina: the elegant Baroque Palazzo Gourgion and, in the foreground, the striking Neo-Gothic Casa Gourgion. Both are associated with the Gourgion family, one of Mdina's oldest noble lineages. Palazzo Gourgion embodies the refined elegance of Maltese Baroque architecture, while Casa Gourgion - remodelled in the early 20th century by architect Andrea Vassallo - introduced a bold Neo-Gothic style that initially sparked controversy within the predominantly Baroque city. Today, it is regarded as one of Mdina's architectural gems.
The 0.45 stamp presents the iconic Gothic-style chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes, perched on a promontory overlooking MHarbour in Gozo. Designed by architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia, the chapel is distinguished by its steeply pitched roof, lancet windows, circular rose window, buttresses, and square tower crowned by a slender spire. The statue of the Virgin Mary of Lourdes, placed within a natural cavity as depicted in the stamp design, inspired the construction of the chapel, which was completed in 1893.
The 1.50 stamp portrays the flamboyant façade of Casino Notabile, formerly known as Point de Vue, a historic clubhouse situated on Saqqajja Hill in Rabat. Designed by architect Webster Paulson and built between 1887 and 1888, this ornate Belle Époque-style building stands on the site of a former belvedere, commanding sweeping panoramic views across the surrounding countryside.
The fourth stamp, bearing a denomination of 2.00, depicts the 19th-century clock tower and part of the old prison building of the Gozo Cittadella in Victoria. Constructed in 1858 above the fortification walls, the clock tower remains a distinctive feature of Victoria's skyline and overlooks one of Gozo's finest panoramic viewpoints. Adjacent to the Courts of Justice, from the 16th century until 1962, the Old Prison served as the Island's main detention centre. The Gozo Cittadella, a hilltop fortress with roots dating back to 1500 BC, served as the Island's primary sanctuary and administrative centre.
