Viking Cruises

Viking Explorer Society News - Issue 23 - Spring 2024

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viking.com | 33 E X P E R I E N C E S I S S U E 2 3 WINES OF MARSOVIN Discover Malta's rich wine-making heritage in a visit to a premier winemaker. The Wines of Marsovin experience will expose you to not only exquisite wines, but also the breathtaking landscapes of Malta. On the way you will see sights such as Mdina, the Blue Grotto and the quaint fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Shortly after these sights you will find yourself surrounded by lush vineyards as you begin to approach the Marsovin Cellars. The Marsovin Cellars have been producing premium wines for over 100 years. The company began as a small wine producer collecting grapes from local farmers and producing wine to then be sold and distributed to shops using horse-drawn carts. Marsovin Cellars has now grown exponentially. During the experience you will learn more about the company's illustrious century-old history as you tour its aging cellars, built 400 years ago by the Knights of Malta, now housing more than 250 oak barrels. Discover the impact that Malta's Mediterranean climate and rich soil combined with its two native grape varieties to create uniquely flavored wines. To conclude your unforgettable visit, your guide will lead you to the wine bar, where experienced staff will guide you through a tasting session. Prepare to fall in love with Malta's unique and exquisite wines, leaving you wanting more. MALTA'S CAPITALS, OLD & NEW Malta is home to two magnificently influential cities, Mdina and Valletta. If you are a culturally curious traveller, allow yourself the amazing opportunity to compare these two beautiful cities, expanding your knowledge and perspective of the history rich country of Malta. To begin your comparison experience, your guide will take you to the former capital, Mdina. Mdina is one of the world's best examples of a medieval walled city. Due to its incredible hilltop location and peaceful, shaded streets, locals often refer to Mdina as "the Silent City." A walking tour will allow you to admire the glorious views of the countryside from centuries- old bastions and soak up the atmosphere. After immersing yourself in Malta's history, you will journey to the present-day capital, Valletta. Valletta was founded in the 16th Century. The city is home to bustling cobblestone streets, full of authentic Maltese character. Your guide will take you past many of Valletta's incredible landmarks, including, St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Magisterial Place of the Grandmaster and the Auberge de Castile, residence of the Prime Minister. Lastly, prepare to be amazed by splendid views from the Barrakka Gardens of the Three Cities and Fort Ricasoli. PALAZZO PARISIO & PROSECCO For lovers of prosecco and palaces, you can visit a fabulous palace, lovingly maintained by a baroness in the name of her long line of ancestors, the Sciclunas. In the heart of the Naxxar village, the 18th-century Palazzo Parisio has stood for generations. This stunning and grand residence features gilded plasterworks, ceiling frescoes, crystal chandeliers, lush paintings and sculptures, as well as formal gardens. A guided tour through the palace will allow you to gaze upon the ornate grand ballroom, the finely detailed chapel, and the carefully landscaped gardens and orangery. To complete the immaculate palace experience, enjoy a glass of prosecco alongside light refreshments. However, the experience does not end there. Your tour guide will take time to stop in the village of Mosta, allowing you to visit its distinctive church. Built by the town's citizens during the 19th-century, it boasts one of the world's largest unsupported domes. During your visit, uncover the incredible history of the church and the village of Mosta. End your Palazzo Parisio & Prosecco experience feeling immersed in the incredible culture and rich history of Malta. M e di te r r a n ean S ea B al ea r i c S ea Barcelona Rome (Civitavecchia) Granada (Málaga) Ajaccio CORSICA Seville (Cádiz) Valletta MALTA ITALY SPAIN FRANCE MOROCCO ALGERIA TUNISIA St r ai t of G ib r al t a r At lant i c O cean A lb o r an S ea Marseille Tunis (La Goulette) Algiers Casablanca – C r ui s e •• O ve r night in Po r t VIEW VOYAGE GETTING THERE: Consider our 16-day Malta, Morocco & the Mediterranean, roundtrip from Barcelona.

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