Ta’ Xbiex Penthouse

Ta’ Xbiex is located on a small headland inside Marsamxett Harbour, between Msida and Gzira. It is located just opposite the harbour’s entrance, facing east to where the sun rises over the horizon. Some say this geographical position facing the sunrise (Tbexbix) gives Ta’ Xbiex its name, while others attribute it to the fishing nets (Xbiek) prevalent in this former fishing village. The motto of Ta ‘Xbiex is ‘Unita tae Fortiori’ in Latin, which in Maltese roughly means, ‘In Unity is Strength.’

While fishing boats are still seen in the area, today the main connection that Ta’ Xbiex has with the sea is part of the Yacht Marina which lies on the Valletta side, with the Black Pearl galley, today a restaurant, dominating it. In addition Ta’ Xbiex has become home to a number of ship chandler service industries, boat supplies shops and also insurance and law firms, although it is most famous for the large number of foreign embassies housed in its magnificent buildings along the coast. Among others, one can find the Embassies of Egypt, Greece, Ireland, France, the Australian High Commission and the British High commission.