Valletta - European Capital of Culture

In 2012, Valletta, the capital of Malta, was declared to be the European City of Culture of 2018 and this year Valletta is enjoying this prestigious title.

The City was founded by Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette in the 16th century and designed mainly by architect Francesco Laparelli. It is essentially baroque in character with elements of Mannerist, Neo-Classical and Modern architecture. This year also happens to be the 450th Anniversary of the Grand Master's death.

The European Capital of Culture is a programme by the European Union, and an international panel of cultural experts selects two cities for each year. The chosen cities are assigned the title for a period of one year and will be responsible to showcase their city by organising a series of cultural events. The aim of such a programme is to bring Europeans closer together by highlighting the richness and diversity of European cultures while raising awareness of their common history and values.

The Valletta 2018 Foundation was responsible to showcase the capital of Malta by the implementation of this diverse cultural programme spread throughout the year. Around 1000 participants from Malta and overseas are involved in this programme which stands to contribute towards the social, economic and cultural canvas of the Maltese islands.

The artwork for this stamp issue was designed by artist Joseph Pulo.