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Argotti Botanical Gardens

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Argotti Botanical Gardens are situated in Floriana and rank among the oldest scientific gardens in Malta. Originally established in the 18th century as two separate private gardens for Knights of the Order of St. John, they were later merged under the direction of Ignatius de Argotti. Since 1855, the gardens have been managed by the University of Malta for botanical research and educational purposes. The site hosts an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plants, with a significant emphasis on cacti and succulents. From the elevated bastions of the gardens, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Floriana ditches and the Marsamxett basin. Beyond their scientific value, the gardens serve as a crucial green lung within the densely populated area surrounding Valletta. Historic monuments and decorative fountains within the grounds testify to the site's long history, blending Baroque and Victorian landscape elements.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Saint Publius Parish Church · Knisja tas-Sarria · Catholic Institute
Nearby: Iklin (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

These historic botanical gardens provide a wonderful outdoor experience, inviting visitors to stroll freely along the beautifully maintained pathways while enjoying a diverse collection of plant life.

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Typical hours

The gardens are typically accessible from early morning until late afternoon or early evening, making them a perfectly well-suited spot for a leisurely and relaxing stroll during the pleasant daylight hours.

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Photography

The pretty landscapes and rare plant species naturally offer excellent photographic opportunities, so capturing personal memories throughout the park's expansive grounds is highly encouraged.

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Time needed

To enjoy a quiet and truly rejuvenating walk through the various well-curated sections of the gardens, you should comfortably plan to spend around one to one and a half hours exploring the area.

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Combine with

The convenient location of the gardens allows you to easily combine your visit with exploring the surrounding historic fortifications or enjoying a relaxing dinner at a nearby local restaurant.

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Getting there

The gardens are very well connected to the public transport network and can be reached effortlessly either by bus or on foot from the surrounding bustling neighborhoods without any major physical exertion.

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Insider tip

Visit the gardens during the late afternoon hours when the lower sun casts a beautifully warm and golden light, highlighting the rich, spirited colors of the exotic plants in a truly spectacular way.

Geography

Coordinates

35.89250, 14.50500

Facts

The gardens were handed over to the University of Malta for scientific use in 1855.
Ignatius de Argotti built his private residence and garden here in 1774.
The collection includes rare species of Maltese flora that are threatened with extinction.
Sections of the garden are situated on bastions dating back to the period of the Knights.
There is an on-site herbarium that preserves thousands of dried plant specimens.
The garden was originally intended as a private retreat for high-ranking Order officials.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Floriana<1 km · EExplore →

Msida Parish Church1 km · WExplore →

Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker2 km · SExplore →

Vittoriosa (Birgu)2 km · EExplore →

Manoel Island Yacht Marina2 km · NExplore →

Malta Dairy Products2 km · SWExplore →

Fgura Parish Church3 km · SEExplore →

Santa Luċija3 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Argotti Botanical Gardens (10)

Saint Publius Parish Church

Church in Floriana, Malta, dedicated to Saint Publius.

Knisja tas-Sarria

Church in Floriana, Malta, founded by the Navarrese knight Martín de Sarria.

Catholic Institute

Theatre in Floriana, Malta, used for cultural events.

Floriana Old Train Station

Former railway station in Floriana, Malta, now a historic building.

Argotti Botanic Gardens

Botanical garden in Floriana, Malta, featuring a collection of plants.

Independence Monument

Monument in Floriana, Malta, commemorating independence.

Saint Philip Garden

Garden in Floriana, Malta, named after Saint Philip.

Malta Memorial

World War II memorial in Malta commemorating British Commonwealth aircrews.

Il-Bieb tal-Bombi

City gate in Floriana, Malta, a historic entrance.

Convent Crypt

Crypt in Floriana, Malta, located beneath a convent.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where are the Argotti Gardens located?

The gardens are located in Floriana, right next to St. Philip's Gardens and the Granaries.

Is there an entrance fee for the Argotti Gardens?

The public part is free; the university's botanical section often requires prior booking.

What is special about Argotti Gardens?

They are one of Malta's oldest botanical gardens, with a collection of rare cacti and succulents.

Is there a view from there?

Yes, from the walls you have a nice view of the fortifications and Marsamxett Harbour.

Are the gardens open daily?

The public area is usually open daily from 8:00 AM until sunset.

Argotti Botanical Gardens: where is it located?

Argotti Botanical Gardens is located in Malta.

Argotti Botanical Gardens: what is there to see?

Highlights include Saint Publius Parish Church, Knisja tas-Sarria, Catholic Institute.

Argotti Botanical Gardens: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Argotti Botanical Gardens: why is it worth visiting?

The Argotti Botanical Gardens are situated in Floriana and rank among the oldest scientific gardens in Malta.

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