Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu – Walking Tour

If you’ve ever been curious about Malta’s shadowy past—its tales of witchcraft, curses, ghosts, and secret rituals—this Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu tour promises a fascinating look into the island’s mysterious history. While I haven’t personally taken this exact walk, I’ve read a lot of reviews and gathered details that help paint a clear picture of what you can expect. It’s a two-hour adventure that’s perfect for travelers who enjoy stories that are a little spooky, a touch macabre, and deeply rooted in local lore.

What immediately catches the eye about this tour is its focus on stories that the guidebooks won’t tell—think of it as piecing together Malta’s hidden past, beyond the usual highlights. Plus, having a guide like Mario, an ex-BBC journalist with a passion for Malta’s lesser-known tales, promises a narrative delivered with humor and insight. That said, it’s not for everyone—some parts might be a bit dark or eerie, and it involves walking through uneven backstreets, so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of fitness and no wheelchair requirements.

One small thing to consider: this tour is quite specific, focusing on Malta’s witchcraft trials, ghost stories, and sites linked to grim history. If your interest is more in sunny beaches or ancient temples, this might not hit your sweet spot. But if you’re a history buff, intrigued by the supernatural, or just want a different perspective on Malta’s past, this experience could be really rewarding.

This tour seems ideal for history lovers with a taste for the mysterious, or travelers who enjoy stories that are a little darker—and want to see Birgu from a totally different angle.

Key Points

• Historical and spooky mix: Combines Malta’s witchcraft trials with ghost stories and haunted sites
• Expert storytelling: Led by Mario, a former journalist with a knack for uncovering unseen stories
• Unique locations: Visits places not typically included in standard tours, like the site of Malta’s biggest explosion and the house of the executioner
• Authentic atmosphere: Explores Birgu’s backstreets, which feel very different from the more touristy parts of Malta
• Rich narration: Expect stories about spells, curses, and mysterious rituals from Malta’s past
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with low fitness levels

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Introduction and Meeting Point

The adventure kicks off outside the Advanced Gate, overlooking the Birgu Waterfront. A quick heads-up: Google Maps may show the pin inside the gate, but you’ll actually meet in the open area outside, which makes it easy to find. This starting point offers a great view to set the mood, with the waterfront providing a scenic backdrop to the eerie stories ahead.

Exploring Birgu’s Dark Past

Birgu is a town with a history that predates Valletta, Malta’s current capital. Its labyrinth of narrow streets and historic buildings have witnessed centuries of secrets, crimes, and supernatural tales. Walking through these back alleys, you’ll feel like stepping into a storybook of ghosts and curses.

Stories of Witchcraft and Rituals

One of the highlights is the focus on how and why spells were cast in Malta. During the 16th-18th centuries, witchcraft was practiced here, often in secret, with incantations that aimed to influence love lives, curse enemies, or cure ailments. The stories shared by Mario are both entertaining and chilling—imagine learning about spells to make someone fall in love or to send curses through the night.

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Haunted Sites and Ghost Tales

You’ll hear about the ghosts that still haunt the city’s palazzos and fortifications, stories that locals swear by, and some that are more folklore than fact. For instance, there’s a church said to have been visited by the Devil himself—a story that adds a sinister layer to this historic place. Multiple reviews mention the storytelling as engaging, with one noting how Mario “uses archives, newspapers, and rare books to bring stories alive.”

Notable Stops

• The site of Malta’s biggest explosion: This is a key historical event that shaped the island’s history, and you’ll learn what happened and why it’s still remembered today.
• The house of the executioner: The home where Malta’s executioner once lived is a chilling reminder of the island’s darker justice.
• The story of a priest who murdered his lover: A tragic, sensational tale that highlights the human drama behind the historic facade.

Duration and Group Size

This is a two-hour, guided walking tour, keeping a pace that’s easy to follow. Group sizes tend to be small, which means more personal stories and interaction. Since it’s a live guide experience, you’ll get a chance to ask questions and explore details that interest you most.

Experience and Value

The guide, Mario, is known for his passionate storytelling and use of rare historical sources—dusty archives, old newspapers, and books. This adds a richness to the experience that’s rare outside academic circles. The tour offers a good mix of entertainment and education, making it more than just a spooky walk, but a meaningful exploration of Malta’s less-visible history.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Cost & Booking: You can reserve a spot with the flexibility of paying later, which is handy if your plans are still uncertain. The full cancellation policy allows a refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
• Suitability: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with low fitness, as the tour involves some walking on uneven streets.
• Timing: Check availability for starting times; it runs for roughly two hours, so plan accordingly.
• Language: The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible to most travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Travelers interested in the darker side of history, especially stories of witchcraft, curses, and ghosts, will find this tour captivating. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate well-researched storytelling and enjoy exploring beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re traveling with someone who loves spooky tales or local legends, this could be a highlight. On the flip side, if you prefer sunny beaches or more visual sightseeing, this may not be your top pick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an experience that combines history with a touch of the supernatural, Witchcraft and Blood in Birgu offers a compelling journey through Malta’s hidden stories. The guided narration by Mario makes it engaging, providing context and details that go far beyond basic sightseeing. It’s not a typical Malta tour—more of an adventure into the island’s shadowy corners, perfect for those who enjoy stories with a little edge.

While it’s a short tour, the stories stick with you, adding depth to your understanding of Birgu’s layered past. The intimate setting and passionate storytelling make it feel like a private exploration, even in a small group. Just be prepared for some spooky tales and uneven streets, and you’ll find this a truly memorable addition to your Malta trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children or teenagers interested in spooky stories or history might enjoy it. The dark themes and ghost stories could be a bit intense for very young kids.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day without feeling rushed or overly long.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the Advanced Gate, in the open space overlooking Birgu Waterfront, and ends at the same spot, making it easy to plan afterward.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in planning your Malta itinerary.

What is included in the price?
The price covers your guide, Mario, and his storytelling. No mention of additional costs, so you can assume it’s a straightforward fee for this guided experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, as it involves walking through uneven backstreets and some historic sites with limited accessibility.

Does the tour focus only on ghost stories?
No, it also covers Malta’s witchcraft trials, rituals, and historic sites linked to dark events, giving a broader perspective on the island’s hidden past.

Is the tour appropriate for people with low fitness levels?
The tour involves walking on streets that might be uneven and potentially some uphill parts, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in English, making it accessible for most international visitors.

If you’re curious about Malta’s secret stories, this walk might just surprise you with its mix of history, mystery, and local legend. Just remember to bring your sense of wonder—and maybe a flashlight for those darker corners.

You can check availability for your dates here: