Global Treasures: Valletta

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1227

UPC: 879061008269

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Malta's past is reminiscent of the stormy sea waves that sometimes appear around the rock-covered coast of this small yet remarkable island located in the southern Mediterranean.

The Lower Barracca Gardens date back to British colonial times. In 1814, Malta became an official Colony of the British Crown just a few years after Napoleon's army had occupied the island. Following various wars, cruel sieges and brutal invasions the inhabitants of Malta decided to secure peace and order by becoming part of the British Empire.

The glamour of the Teatro Manoel is only exceeded by the former Grand Master's Palace that is now the official seat of the President and also home of the Parliament of the Maltese Republic.

Saint John's Co-Cathedral is one of the island's most prized cultural treasures. The magnificently equipped church that was built between 1573 and 1577 is regarded as being one of the most beautiful architectural creations of Gerolamo Cassar.

Although the Maltese knights of Valletta have now been assigned to the history books, their cultural heritage is still very much alive on this small yet fascinating Mediterranean island.