Balzan

Set in central Malta, Balzan is one of the Three Villages, alongside the neighbouring villages of Attard and Lija. The village derives its name from Maximillian Balzan, a Spanish merchant who settled in Malta in 1567. In recognition of his services to the Knights of the Order of St John, he was granted a tract of land that would evolve into the village of Balzan. In fact, several orange trees found around the village were imported by Maximillian from the Spanish city of Granada. Balzan's village core is home to many historic palazzos and residences that once belonged to Malta's nobility and aristocracy. A stroll along Idmejda Street, starting near the village police station, leads to the main entrance of San Anton Palace and Gardens. This palace, originally the summer residence of the Grand Masters of the Knights of St John, now serves as the official residence of Malta's presidents.