The Auberge of Italy, in Merchants Street, was built in 1574 but substantial renovations were carried out in the last decade of the 17th century at the expense of Grand Master Gregorio Carafa. The building is one of the finest in Valletta.
The bust of Grandmaster Carafa adorns the façade and is surrounded by banners and warlike trophies; the Carafa escutcheon surmounts the wide doorway which leads to the vestibule, and hence to a large central courtyard.
Members of the Langue of Italy were responsible for defending the bastion of St. Peter and St. Paul.
The head of the Langue of Italy was the Admiral in Command of the Order's navy.
The Church of St. Catherine of Italy, dating from 1576, is attached to the Auberge.
This Auberge was, for several years before the War, the National Museum of Malta. Later it was used as the Superior Law Courts. During the War, it suffered heavy damage.
At present, the Auberge of Italy houses a number of Government offices, including the a Post Office.
