Valletta - Manoel Theater

Diagonally opposite the Library in Queen's Square in Valletta is the end of Old Theater Street, which runs between Queen's Square and Palace Square. On the right-hand side, between Old Bakery Street and Old Mint Street, is the Manoel Theater, named after Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena, who built it in 1731. It has a sumptuous interior, with gilded boxes and seats upholstered in green velvet.

Located on Old Theatre Street, this 1731 building is said to be the third-oldest European theater still in use. Before its restoration it served as a doss house, a dance hall and a cinema.

The 650-seat auditorium is oval in shape with a tiny stage and orchestra pit. The stalls seat only 272, but above them, and beneath the gilded ceiling and chandelier, are three full tiers of boxes, including one very discreet grand master's box. All the delicate frescoes are of Mediterranean scenes and in 22-carrot gold leaf.