Strait Street, the narrowest street in Valletta, flanked on either side by tall buildings, a street with a shady reputation. In former times it was the favourite haunt of soldiers, sailors and candlestick makers who sought a night of fun and games with the bar maids and dancers of the many establishments that thrived in this street.
The British nicknamed it ‘The Gut’, which is a good indication of its shady character. Drunken fights, prostitution, dance halls and bordellos were a common sight along this infamous street. It was once a noisy, bustling place. Today, the only sounds you will hear are the echoes of your own footsteps and, perhaps, the sigh of a disappointed ghost or two because the place is just a shadow of its former self, decaying slowly, and yet, frozen in time.
Rehabilitation of some buildings has started in the last couple of years and a number of restaurants and bistros have opened for business in what is still one of the most famous streets in Valletta.
Location: Strait Street (Strada Stretta), Valletta
November 2012
How beautiful - your photos beautifully illustrate this special street
ReplyDeleteHappy Christmas
Helen x
It is the perfect street for restaurants and theatres, I hope they manage to restore it and that it becomes alive again (though maybe in a muted way!!!)
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy seeing the historic buildings and signs you share. It must be wonderful to live among that great history!
ReplyDelete~Lindy
The ever-charming Valetta reaches out again. This just went on "my list." The narrow street and particularly #84 are fabulous.
ReplyDeleteBises,
Genie
Beautiful photos as always, Loree! You really know how to capture the charm of a city.
ReplyDeleteI, too, wish the years wouldn't flash by in a flutter. It's hard to keep up at times.
Wishing you a wonderful 2013! xoxo, B
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ReplyDeleteHi Loree...Wow..fantastic shots..always exciting visiting here..beautiful!
ReplyDeleteGreat photos! I remember reading about The Gut in a book I bought when I was in Malta, The Information Officer. I really enjoyed the story set in Malta during WW2. It got me started reading more about Malta & its history.
ReplyDeleteMust have a wander down that way next time we are in Malta. Hope it's not too long coming!