The History of Point de Vue

The Point de Vue is a small, family-run Guest House dating back to the 17th century. The Guest House is situated just outside the fortified city of Mdina, the Silent City.

Mdina’s origins date back more than 4,000 years, and it served as the capital city of Malta from the Roman times right until the arrival of the Knights of St. John in 1530. The surrounding village of Rabat is credited with the origins of Christianity in Malta. It is believed that after being shipwrecked on the Maltese Islands, St. Paul spent most of his time in Rabat.

The Point de Vue was established as a Guest House in 1889. During World War II, it was used as an improvised ‘Control Tower’ guiding the Allied planes as they landed in the RAF’s airstrip in nearby Ta’ Qali. The airstrip and the remains of the huts used by the RAF can still be seen in Ta’ Qali. Many of the huts have been converted into small shops and factories which incorporate the Ta’ Qali Crafts Village, a place that should be on the agenda of every tourist. Ta’ Qali also houses an Aviation Museum.

Some of the British pilots were stationed at the Point de Vue during the war, and spent much of their free time relaxing in the bar and restaurant. The airstrip in Ta’ Qali received many air raids and in one incident a stray bomb hit the Guest House near the main entrance. Many British pilots lost their lives. The remains of the damage caused by the bomb can still be seen in the entrance of the building. Nowadays many veteran British soldiers come to visit the Point de Vue to reminisce about the war and the friends they lost in the Guest House.

In September 2005, the property was taken over by the Abela-Shandler family. The family has roots both in Malta and South Africa, and its African roots has provided the inspiration on the African twist of the Butcher’s Grill menu. The family’s passion for old buildings and Malta’s history has provided the backbone for the much-needed restoration works on the property.

A Tribute to the Fallen Soldiers during WWII

Sunday Circle Article (click to enlarge)