St. James Cavalier Centre for Creativity (Spazju Kreattiv)
Triq Pope Pius V, Valletta, Malta, 1030
Occupying a 16th-century fortification in old Valletta, the St. James’ Cavalier Centre for Creativity is Malta’s liveliest arts and culture hub. Dedicated to promoting cultural expression, this vibrant, government-funded complex features a theater, an arthouse cinema, and rolling art exhibitions, creative events, and workshops.
The basics
Cleverly incorporated into the sturdy stone structure of the St. James’ Cavalier—a former lookout and gun platform built after 1565’s Great Siege of Malta—the St. James’ Cavalier Centre revolves around a cylindrical 152-seater theater-in-the-round set inside the fortification’s former water reservoir. Visitors can buy tickets for plays staged in this impressive space; watch movies in the 105-seat theater; attend concerts in the recital hall; and enjoy a regularly changing roster of other events, including workshops, master classes, lectures, and experiences for children.
Things to know before you go
- Events at the St. James’ Cavalier Centre will appeal to art, theater, movie, and culture buffs.
- Most areas and activities staged at the center are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.
- On-site amenities include restrooms and a café.
- Exhibitions are free to enter, while most other events are ticketed.
How to get there
Situated on Valetta’s pedestrianized Castille Square above the Upper Barrakka Gardens, the St. James Cavalier Centre is best reached on foot if you’re coming from anywhere in the old city. If you’re traveling from another part of Malta, take a bus to Valletta’s main A1 bus station, near the Triton Fountain. Then, walk northward through the City Gate, turn right into Pope Pius V Street, and continue to Castille Square. If you're driving, parking is available near the Triton Fountain.
When to get there
The center is open daily, with extended hours on the weekends. If you want to explore just the exhibitions, arrive in the morning, when the center is at its quietest. If you plan to see a film or attend a workshop, it’s best to check the schedule in advance.
Nearby attractions
Whether you visit the St. James Cavalier for a show, movie, workshop, or simply to view its art exhibitions, be sure to check out two of Valletta’s nearby must-sees. Admire the graceful baroque exterior of the Auberge de Castille—the seat of Malta’s prime minister—which also stands on Castille Square. Then, walk on to the Saluting Battery at the Upper Barrakka Gardens to experience one of the twice-daily cannon firings.
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