Voltaire, whose real name was François-Marie Arouet, is best known for his wit, his critical thinking, and his advocacy for freedom of speech and religious tolerance. He is regarded as one of the greatest figures of the Enlightenment movement of the 18th century. During his travels, Voltaire visited a number of European cities, and Valletta left an indelible mark on him.
In his writings, Voltaire often refers to Valletta as a city that embodies all that is great about human civilization. He marvels at its architecture, its grandiose palaces, and its well-planned urban design. Valletta, as described by Voltaire, is a testament to the capabilities of human achievement.
One particular aspect of Valletta that fascinated Voltaire was its strategic location in the Mediterranean. The city lies on a peninsula, surrounded by the deep blue waters of the sea. Valletta’s natural harbor is one of the finest in the world, and Voltaire recognized its importance as a hub for trade and commerce. He saw Valletta as a testament to the power of human ingenuity in harnessing the natural resources of a place to create a thriving city.
Voltaire was also impressed by the multiculturalism of Valletta. The city has a long and complex history of different cultures and civilizations leaving their mark. From the Phoenicians to the Romans, the Normans to the Knights of St. John, Valletta has absorbed a rich tapestry of influences. This diverse heritage fascinated Voltaire, who believed that cultural diversity was key to the progress of society. He saw Valletta as a shining example of a city that embraced diversity and thrived because of it.
The beauty of Valletta’s streets and buildings also struck a chord with Voltaire. The city is known for its stunning architecture, with its grand churches, palaces, and piazzas. Voltaire marveled at the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into the construction of these structures. He saw in Valletta’s architecture a celebration of human creativity and the pursuit of beauty.
But perhaps what impressed Voltaire the most about Valletta was its people. He found the inhabitants of Valletta to be warm, hospitable, and full of life. Their passion for their city was infectious, and Voltaire felt a sense of belonging whenever he visited. In his writings, he speaks of the energy and vibrancy of Valletta’s people, who are proud of their heritage and eager to share it with the world.
In conclusion, Valletta’s description by Voltaire is one that highlights the city’s grandeur, its multiculturalism, its beauty, and its people. Voltaire saw in Valletta a place that encapsulates the ideals of the Enlightenment, a city that celebrates human achievement, embraces diversity, and cherishes the pursuit of beauty. His words continue to resonate with travelers who visit Valletta today, as they too are captured by the magic of this Mediterranean gem.