The history of Mdina traces back more than 4000 years. Mdina has had different names and titles depending on its rulers and its role but its medieval name describe it best - ‘Citta' Notabile': the noble city. Mdina is the old capital of Malta and one of Europe's finest examples of an ancient walled city and extraordinary in its mix of medieval and baroque architecture. The city displays an unusual mix of Norman and Baroque architecture, including several palaces, most of which serve as private homes. No cars (other than a limited number of residents, emergency vehicles, wedding cars and horses) are allowed in Mdina, partly why it has earned the nickname “the Silent City”.