32 Enchanting Medieval Towns That Feel Frozen in Time

5. Mdina, Malta

Known as the "Silent City," Mdina is one of the most atmospheric medieval towns in the world. Sitting atop a hill in central Malta, this fortress town has remained largely unchanged for centuries, with its massive limestone walls, narrow labyrinthine streets, and breathtaking panoramic views of the island. With a history stretching back over 4,000 years, Mdina has seen Phoenician, Roman, and Norman influences, shaping it into a blend of architectural styles. The Mdina Cathedral, with its baroque façade and stunning frescoes, dominates the skyline, while the grand palaces and noble houses reveal the town’s aristocratic past. Unlike most medieval towns, Mdina is eerily quiet, as only a few hundred residents live within its walls. At night, when the lantern-lit streets empty and the wind whispers through the alleys, it truly feels like a ghost town lost in time.