Auberge De Castille, Leon Et Portugal Was Assigned Specific (Marked with a Circular Dot on the Map) Sits Responsibilities

AUBERGE DE CASTILLE, ROLE WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE ORDER LEON ET PORTUGAL On the same lines of present-day government departments, each Langue The Auberge de Castille, Leon et Portugal was assigned specific (marked with a circular dot on the map) sits responsibilities. The on the highest point of Valletta. It overlooks Langue of Castille, Leon a spacious and airy square, a good part of et Portugal was tasked which is taken up by a series of capacious with administration underground silos formerly used for the and diplomacy. Its storage of grain. The sculptural façade and Pilier (chief) occupied complementary side elevations make this building the post of Grand into one of the most iconic in the capital city. Chancellor.

MONUMENTAL BUILDING Emblem of the Langue of Castille, Leon et Portugal This auberge was originally constructed in 1574 during the tenure of Grand Master Jean l’Evesque de la Cassière (1572-1581). It served as headquarters, temporary residence and meeting place for the Knights coming from the Spanish provinces of Castille and Leon and from neighbouring Portugal. Like other buildings designed by Geronimo Cassar, it was less elaborate. The monumental building in the Spanish Baroque style that we see today, was constructed between 1741 and 1744 according to the designs of Andrea Belli, a leading Maltese architect in the 18th century. The imposing façade is divided into 11 bays demarcated by slender pilasters and is capped by a bold cornice. A central flight of steps leads up to the grand portal, while each of the 31 window openings is framed by elaborate moulds. The internal layout revolves around a cloistered courtyard.

CHURCH OF ST JAMES The Church of St James served as the spiritual gathering place for the Knights coming from the Spanish provinces of Castille and Leon and from neighbouring Portugal. It was first built during the early 17th century, but the present Baroque building dates from the second quarter of the 18th century and is the work of the affluent Italian architect Romano Carapecchia. Presently, it is used for services by the Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

LEADING GOVERNMENT OFFICE This auberge has been serving as Office of the Prime Minister since 1972.