Many of Malta’s towns have narrow and winding streets flanked by connected buildings. This layout was important for defense but also provides a breeze and a shadowed respite from the summer heat. However, when Valletta was planned in the 16th century, it followed a rectangular grid with wider roads. You can still find narrow terraced streets like St. Lucia that offer a romantic spot to take a break. One word of caution when navigating the city’s steps: the risers are taller than normal because they were designed to accommodate knights in heavy armor. In the background is St. Lucy, a Roman Catholic church built in 1570.