As Malta prepares to take over the EU Presidency in 2017, Valletta is set to play host to the 4th edition of the International Baroque Festival next January.

Highlighting the authentic baroque spirit of the isle's capital, the festival shall run across two weeks between 12 and 28 January in differing locations across town, including in Europe's third-oldest running theatre Manoel Theatre and the majestic National Library.

Since its inception, the festival has attracted the likes of Mahan Esfahani, Philippe Herreweghe, Jordi Savall, Iestyn Davies and Christophe Rousset. The local Valletta International Baroque Ensemble (VIBE) shall also be performing in a historically-sensitive manner archived ‘Maltese’ music, which was composed by resident and Italian masters for the Order of St John and the Church.

On the doorstep of Valletta and just a 5-minute sail across the Grand Harbour from Birgu, boutique hotel Locanda La Gelsomina is the ideal base from which to savour the festival's musical highlights and the perfect haven to retreat to for some quiet reflection afterwards.

For further details and programme, visit the official Valletta International Baroque Festival website.