St Julian's Property Guide

The story of St Julian's is one of dramatic transformation. For centuries, it was a very peaceful coastal town, characterised by its Latin architecture and the greenery surrounding Spinola Palace. The northern coastal area remained largely undeveloped for years due to the persistent fear of attacks by Muslim raiders, a threat that only diminished significantly after the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. The pivotal moment for the town's development came with the construction of Spinola Palace in 1688 by Fra Paolo Raffaele Spinola. Built for public entertainment, as stated in the inscription above its portico, the palace marked the beginning of significant coastal reclamation in the region. It was later enlarged in 1733 by his successor, Fra Giovanni Battista Spínola. During the French occupation in 1798, Saint Julian's became the first town conquered by French troops, led by General Claude Henri Vaubois, who entered via Spinola Bay. The 20th century brought further, more radical change, with one of the island's largest infrastructure developments seeing many old houses demolished to make way for the apartment blocks that define much of the modern townscape.

St Julian's is not a monolith; it's a collection of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own atmosphere. Balluta Bay presents a more residential and refined character, with its crescent-shaped bay and the iconic Art Deco Balluta Buildings. Spinola Bay retains a touch of its fishing village past, now lined with restaurants and cafes that spill out onto the water's edge. St. George's Bay is home to high-end hotels and a popular sandy beach, offering a classic Mediterranean resort experience. Then there is Paceville, the undeniable heart of Malta's nightlife. This concentrated area is famous for its bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues, attracting a young, energetic crowd. The town also boasts modern developments like Portomaso, a marina and residential complex, and Dragonara Point, home to the historic Dragonara Casino. For those seeking a blend of luxury and convenience, the area around Mercury Tower represents the pinnacle of modern Maltese coastal living.

Beneath the glitz and glamour, St Julian's remains a deeply Maltese town with a rich cultural heritage. The town derives its name from Saint Julian the Hospitaller, the patron saint of hunters, a fact reflected in its unique traditions. The community celebrates two feast days each year: the primary celebration on February 12th and a summer feast on the last Sunday of August. These are not simple processions; they are immersive cultural experiences. The ġostra is a thrilling spectacle where participants climb a greased pole suspended over the sea to capture flags. The Musketterija, a tradition dating back to 1982, sees hunters fire blank cartridges from the parish church roof during the procession of the patron saint's statue, a powerful and evocative nod to the town's connection to its hunting past. The parish church itself, dedicated to Saint Julian, has its earliest documented evidence from a pastoral visit in 1601, though the current structure, designed by Arturo Zammit, was built between 1961 and 1968.

For anyone visiting or looking to relocate, St Julian's offers a wide array of accommodation. The town is Malta's hub for tourism-oriented businesses, with a high concentration of hotels. Two excellent 4-star establishments have been approved for recommendation through VisitMalta.co.uk. The Mercure St. Julian's Malta provides an informal setting with understated rooms, some of which offer sea views. Located on Qaliet Street, it is just 581 meters from St George's Bay and is well-suited for those seeking nightlife, dining options, beach access, and family-friendly stays. For a more upscale experience, Hotel Juliani presents a chic boutique option. Situated at 25 St. George's Road, this property features sleek rooms with bay views, a stylish restaurant, and a rooftop pool. It is particularly well-located for Balluta Bay Beach (678m away) and is surrounded by dining options, including the nearby Café Juliani. Both hotels provide excellent bases for exploring the wider area, with Malta's transport network making it easy to visit neighbouring Valletta or Sliema.

St Julian's property market is as diverse as its neighbourhoods. The town has undergone significant development, with many old houses demolished to construct blocks of apartments, which now form a large part of the residential landscape. This has created a varied market, from compact city apartments to larger family homes and luxury properties in modern developments. The appeal for UK buyers and renters is clear: the location north of Valletta offers easy access to the capital while providing its own distinct identity and amenities. The presence of a large foreign population—8,614 foreign residents as of July 2024—creates a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a community familiar with international lifestyles. When considering a property, the specific location within St Julian's is paramount. A Paceville apartment offers a different lifestyle experience compared to a quieter residence near Balluta Bay or Spinola, and prices will reflect these differences in atmosphere and convenience.

Owning or renting a property in St Julian's means embracing a lifestyle that blends Mediterranean leisure with urban convenience. The town's infrastructure supports this way of life, with numerous supermarkets, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities readily available. English is spoken universally, removing a significant barrier for UK residents. The social scene is a major draw, with an abundance of restaurants catering to all tastes, from traditional Maltese fare to international cuisine. The presence of KM Malta Airlines and direct flights to Malta from the UK makes travel to and from the island straightforward. For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, the coastal location provides ample opportunities for swimming, sailing, and other water sports. The town's proximity to Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, also offers access to world-class culture, history, and dining for those days when a change of scenery is desired.

For UK visitors planning a trip to St Julian's, practical considerations are key. Malta operates on the Euro (€), so currency exchange is straightforward upon arrival. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it an attractive year-round destination. The best way to reach St Julian's from Malta International Airport is by taxi or pre-booked transfer, with the journey taking approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. While the town is compact and walkable, exploring further afield requires using Malta's public transport system, which includes buses and, increasingly, modernised routes. For those looking to extend their stay beyond a typical holiday, St Julian's serves as an excellent base for exploring the rest of the island, including the neighbouring island of Gozo, which is accessible by a short ferry ride. The town's position also makes it easy to visit other popular coastal areas like Sliema or the historic capital.