As 2018 dawns, Valletta and the Maltese Islands are set to to bask in their rich and elegant cultural heritage, recognised internationally as a European Capital of Culture.

Designed and built shortly after Malta's first Great Siege in 1565, Valletta was a fortress to defend Christendom and became cultural home to some of the finest works of 16th-18th century Europe. Valletta is a unique Baroque masterpiece and a World Heritage City but modern Malta is much more than a living museum. It enjoys a brimming café culture, art installations and exhibits in open squares, all drenched in year-round Mediterranean sunshine.

See 4Corners latest images of Malta by Richard Taylor, Reinhard Schmid & Alessandro Saffo