Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum

Table of Contents

Introduction

Nestled within the timeless city of Mdina, the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum in Malta invites visitors to step into an intimate world of elegance, history, and art. This enchanting 13th‑century palazzo, once a private residence, is located on Villegaignon Street in the heart of Mdina and offers a rare glimpse into Maltese noble life and the eclectic passions of its former owner, Captain Olof Frederick Gollcher. As you wander through its atmospheric rooms, you are transported to another era—one where every corner whispers stories of art, culture, and refined living.

About the Museum

The museum occupies one of Mdina’s oldest secular structures, with parts dating back to the early thirteenth century. Over time, the palazzo evolved architecturally and stylistically; in 1524 it gained a second floor featuring distinctive Arabesque twin-light windows, and later enhancements included a Renaissance-inspired courtyard staircase and a decorative fountain, lending the place its “Norman House” charm.

In 1927, Swedish-Maltese art collector Captain Gollcher purchased the property, and by 1938 he owned it entirely. He filled it with his vast collection, lovingly installed in rooms that reflected everyday domestic life—from the fully equipped kitchen and dining room to the cosy study and private chapel . Following his death in 1962, his foundation preserved his bequest, and after an extensive restoration begun in 2002 by the Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, the museum opened to the public in May 2007.

The Palazzo Falson presents its collection in a homely manner: silverware graces the dining table, decorative carpets enrich the gallery, and armaments line the walls of an atmospheric armoury. Visitors can enjoy an audio guide in six languages and printed materials in up to eighteen languages, ensuring insight and accessibility. A rooftop café offers a delightful pause with scenic views of Mdina.

Interesting Facts

Built on the site of an earlier Roman and Arab defensive structure, the palazzo shows layers of Maltese history dating back to before the eleventh century.
Captain Gollcher’s collection spans over 3,500 items across seventeen rooms, including furniture, manuscripts, coins, fans, fans, jewellery and even everyday kitchen utensils.
The armoury contains a fascinating assortment of historical arms—from swords and polearms to pistols and firearms—showing Gollcher’s interest in military history.
Among the rare treasures is a ten‑hour pocket watch by Robert Robin, one of only three in existence, dating from the French Revolutionary period.
The art collection includes more than 200 paintings by masters such as Anthony Van Dyck, David Teniers the Younger, Nicolas Poussin, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo and Mattia Preti.
A Strongroom houses over 800 pieces of Maltese, Continental and British silver—once locked away by Gollcher when he travelled.
The collection also features more than eighty Oriental rugs, originating from regions such as Azerbaijan, Afghanistan and Turkmenistan.
The library holds more than 4,500 books and manuscripts, including rare travel guides, nineteenth‑century encyclopedias and works on Maltese history.
The palazzo hosts almost annual temporary exhibitions showcasing items like snuff boxes, scent bottles, whistles and other specialised collections.
In 2019 visitors were invited to enjoy “Secrets of Palazzo Falson,” an augmented reality game offering Maltese and English narration, with support for the hearing‑impaired.
A charming lacemaking demonstration takes place in the courtyard, often allowing visitors to learn the craft hands-on, followed by a complimentary glass of Bucks’ Fizz from the rooftop café.

Photo Gallery

Physical Location

Contact Details

Phone: +3562 145 4512

Website: palazzofalson.com/

Facebook: facebook.com/palazzo.falson/

Conclusion

The Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum is a uniquely immersive experience that blends the regal elegance of Maltese aristocratic life with the intimate charm of a personal home. Its exquisite collections of rare artworks, timepieces, armour and sculptures, all displayed in beautifully restored medieval and Renaissance surroundings, bring the past vibrantly to life. The attentive care of Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti ensures that this gem remains both preserved and welcoming—complete with multilingual resources, annual exhibitions, interactive activities and a serene café with panoramic views. Whether you are drawn by art, history, interiors or local culture, a visit to Palazzo Falson is certain to delight, enrich, and inspire. It stands not only as a monument to Malta’s past, but as a living celebration of one man’s passion, generosity, and vision.