Casa Rocca Piccola Palace and Museum Entrance Ticket

Explore Malta’s 16th-Century Palace and Living Museum

The Casa Rocca Piccola offers a captivating glimpse into Malta’s noble past. Built over 400 years ago for Don Pietro La Rocca, a Knight of Malta, this palatial residence is now the home of the de Piro family, a distinguished Maltese noble family. The 45-minute tours are available in English and can be booked with a live guide or as a self-guided audio tour. With over 50 rooms, this site combines historic architecture, aristocratic furnishings, and lush gardens in one accessible location.

The tour is especially suited for those interested in heritage and history, offering a chance to explore period furniture, silverware, and paintings. Visitors can choose a time that fits their Malta sightseeing schedule, with hourly guided tours, and enjoy unlimited visits during opening hours. While the tour is engaging and informative, it’s best suited for those prepared for a 45-minute walk through aristocratic living spaces and underground WWII shelters.

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Key Points

• Built in the 16th century for a Knights of Malta member, now home to the de Piro family
• 45-minute tours available every hour, in English with options for audio guides
• Includes access to ruins of WWII air raid shelters and beautiful gardens
• Collection of furniture, silver, and paintings showcasing Malta’s noble history
• Self-guided options in several languages, including French, German, Italian, and Spanish
• Pre-booking recommended for guided tours, with unlimited visitation during open hours

Discover the Historic Rooms and Personal Heritage of Casa Rocca Piccola

The palace contains more than 50 rooms that visitors can explore, many of which are open during the tour. These rooms showcase period furniture, portraits of the Marquises de Piro, and decorative silverware, providing a vivid window into Maltese aristocratic life. The guided tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share stories behind the furnishings and family traditions, making the experience both aesthetic and educational.

Participants can also choose to explore at their own pace using the audio guide app or printed guides in 12 languages. The audio guides are available on personal mobile devices, setting the stage for a flexible and engaging visit.

Visit the Gardens and Spot the Resident Parrot Kiku III

Beyond the palace interiors, the gardens provide a peaceful retreat and a chance to see Kiku The Third, a friendly parrot that often becomes a highlight for visitors. The gardens are included in the entrance ticket and serve as a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll amid lush greenery.

The Underground WWII Air Raid Shelters

One of the most striking features of this tour is the network of tunnels hidden beneath the palace. These air raid shelters were used during World War II, sheltering over 100 people from bombs falling on Valletta. The shelters offer an intense contrast to the elegant palace rooms, giving visitors a tangible sense of Malta’s wartime resilience. The shelters are accessible during the tour, and their historical significance tends to impress visitors with their size and purpose.

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Practical Details: Tickets, Guides, and Accessibility

The entrance fee covers access to the palace, WWII shelters, and gardens. Pre-booking is recommended to secure a spot for the hourly guided tours, but visitors can also opt for the self-guided audio or printed guides, which do not require reservations.

Tours include a 45-minute live guide in English and self-guided audio tours available in five languages. The tour site features restrooms, a bookshop, and a restaurant called La Giara, where visitors enjoy a 10% discount upon presenting their ticket. The site is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.

The Experience of the Guided Tour and Self-Guided Options

The live guided tours are led by experienced guides like Steven, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. Reviews highlight that the tours are full of facts and stories, making the historical details lively and engaging.

The audio guides are appreciated for their clarity and ease of use. The app setup is straightforward, with the stunning interiors and underground tunnels being the main highlights. Some visitors note a preference for live guides, but the audio option remains a flexible way to explore.

The Value of the Visit for History Enthusiasts

This tour provides a comprehensive look into Malta’s aristocratic history, royal family traditions, and wartime experiences. The collections of furniture, portraits, and silverware help paint a vivid picture of noble life. The WWII air raid shelters add a layer of historical depth, illustrating Malta’s strategic importance during wartime.

While the tour lasts just 45 minutes, it offers ample opportunities to explore at your own pace before or after the guided session. The unlimited visit feature allows visitors to revisit rooms or gardens, making it a good value for those who want to delve deeper.

Who Should Visit Casa Rocca Piccola?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and families interested in Maltese culture. The enriching stories and visual collections make it a rewarding outing. The site’s accessible design and self-guided options make it suitable for a broad range of visitors, including those with mobility needs.

However, those expecting a long, in-depth tour might find 45 minutes somewhat brief. For a more comprehensive experience, combining this visit with nearby attractions or other city tours is a good idea.

Final Thoughts on the Casa Rocca Piccola Visit

The Casa Rocca Piccola offers a well-rounded glimpse into Malta’s noble and wartime past. The stunning interiors, engaging guides, and historic underground shelters create a memorable experience. The flexible tour options cater to different preferences, whether you want a guided storytelling or a self-paced exploration.

While the tour is brief, it provides a meaningful overview of Maltese aristocracy, with the opportunity to see exquisite artifacts and gardens. It’s a worthwhile stop for anyone keen on history, architecture, and Malta’s royal heritage, especially if combined with other nearby sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour is 45 minutes, with unlimited visits possible during open hours.

Can I explore the palace on my own?
Yes, self-guided audio and written guides are available, allowing flexible exploration with no time limit during opening hours.

Is the tour suitable for visitors with mobility issues?
Yes, the site is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.

What is included in the ticket?
Your ticket grants access to the palace, WWII underground shelters, and gardens. It also includes a live guided tour or audio/self-guided options, plus discounts at the restaurant.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the ticket price covers all standard access and guided options. The restaurant offers a 10% discount upon ticket presentation.

What languages are available for the audio guides?
Audio guides are available in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.

How do I book a guided tour?
It’s recommended to pre-book online, especially for the hourly guided tours, to ensure availability.

What can I expect to see in the palace?
Expect to see period furniture, portraits, silverware, and artworks that highlight noble family life over centuries.

Is there a place to buy souvenirs?
Yes, a bookshop is available on-site for souvenirs or further reading.

Can I visit the gardens separately?
Yes, the gardens are included in the ticket and can be explored independently during open hours.

Is there a dining option onsite?
The La Giara restaurant offers a discount for ticket holders, making it convenient to enjoy a meal after the tour.

This detailed review of Casa Rocca Piccola highlights its charm as a historic aristocratic residence with accessible, flexible tour options. Whether you choose a guided experience or explore self-guided, the site offers a meaningful insight into Malta’s noble and wartime history.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby