Mdina was once the capital of Malta with its commanding views from a hilltop in the center of the island. It is surrounded by well-preserved stone walls and its former moat is now a strip of green parkland. The winding narrow streets were designed to keep an arrow shot from going very far. Today vehicular traffic is limited to residents only and so it is known as the Silent City. Mdina is also famed for is glass-making and lace weaving.  Probably the prettiest and best preserved city on Malta, Mdina has a special quality that draws tourists.  It’s the real deal when it comes to walled cities and it is best visited early or late in the day after the tour buses have gone home.  Despite the crowds that flock here threatening to spoil the “silent” aspect, it hasn’t been exploited with cheap souvenir shops.