Tucked into a residential street in Santa Luċija, in the south of Malta, is something you would never expect to find on a Mediterranean island: a traditional Chinese garden, complete with zig-zag corridors, curved bridges, fountains and decorative gateways. The Chinese Garden of Serenity, known in Maltese as Ġnien is-Serenità or simply Ġnien taċ-Ċiniżi, is small, free and wonderfully calm.
It is not a place for running around. It is a place for slowing down, which is exactly why so many people love it.
A gift from China
The garden was a gift to Malta from the People’s Republic of China. Work started in September 1996, and the garden was officially opened on 7 July 1997. It is looked after by the Santa Luċija Local Council.
It was designed following the principles of classical Chinese gardens, where every element has a meaning and the layout is meant to create a small, self-contained world.
The ideas behind the design
Chinese gardens are built around two main elements: rocks and water.
- Rocks represent mountains, valleys and strength.
- Water represents calm, reflection and serenity.
Together they reflect the balance of yin and yang. The garden also avoids symmetry on purpose. Instead of showing you everything at once, it is divided into smaller spaces separated by walls, corridors and gateways, so that there is always something new around the next corner. This makes the garden feel much bigger than it really is.
What you’ll find in the garden
- Zig-zag corridors, which in Chinese tradition are said to keep bad spirits away, since they can only travel in straight lines
- Bridges over water features
- Fountains and ponds
- Doorways of different shapes, each with its own symbolic meaning
- Several small gardens divided by walls and sheltered walkways
- Carefully arranged rocks, plants and trees
Who will enjoy it?
The Chinese Garden is ideal for couples, photographers, older children who like exploring, and anyone who needs a quiet half-hour. Younger kids usually enjoy the bridges and the water, but there is no playground, so keep the visit short with toddlers. It is also popular for wedding and portrait photos.
Tips for your visit
- Go in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people.
- Take your time. The beauty is in the details, the framed views through doorways and the reflections in the water.
- Keep voices low. The garden is designed for calm, and it’s in a residential area.
- Combine it with something nearby, since a full visit takes 30 to 45 minutes.
- Bring water in summer. There is no café inside.
Opening hours and entry
Entry is free. The garden is generally open daily, including Sundays, from around 8:00am to 6:00pm. Hours can change, and the garden may close temporarily for maintenance, so check with the Santa Luċija Local Council before a special trip.
How to get there
The garden is on Triq Katerina Vitale in Santa Luċija, in the south-east of Malta, close to Tarxien and Paola. It is easiest to reach by car, with street parking nearby. Buses also serve Santa Luċija from Valletta. Check the Tallinja app for routes.
Make a day of it
- Tarxien Temples, just a few minutes away, for spiral-carved prehistoric altars.
- The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum in Paola, if you have booked tickets well in advance.
- The Three Cities, about 10 minutes away, for a waterfront walk.
- San Klement Family Park in Żabbar, if the kids need a playground afterwards.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Chinese Garden of Serenity free? Yes, entry is free.
Where is the Chinese Garden in Malta? In Santa Luċija, in the south-east of Malta, on Triq Katerina Vitale.
When did the Chinese Garden open? It opened on 7 July 1997, as a gift from China to Malta.
How long do I need? About 30 to 45 minutes.
Is it good for children? Older children usually enjoy exploring the corridors and bridges. There is no playground, so it suits a short, calm visit.
Beautiful Malta is an independent guide. Opening hours and access can change, so always check with the Santa Luċija Local Council before visiting.