The laying of the foundation stone of Valletta marked a pivotal moment in Maltese history. Following the successful defense against the Great Siege of 1565, where the Knights of St. John repelled a massive assault by the Ottoman Empire, Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette recognized the need for a new fortified capital. The strategic positioning of Valletta, on a peninsula with natural harbors, made it ideal for military defense and trade. The construction started in earnest with an innovative design by the Italian architect Francesco Laparelli, integrating Renaissance military architecture principles to enhance the city's fortifications.

Valletta was designed to be a bastion of the Order of St. John and a symbol of Christian resilience. The Grand Master not only envisioned a city that could withstand future sieges but also a center of art, culture, and governance. The location was selected for its defensibility, and the grand plan included wide avenues, monumental buildings, and strong fortifications. The city's layout was meticulously planned to enable strategic military maneuvers and efficient governance. As construction progressed, Valletta quickly grew into a dynamic hub.

The completion of Valletta greatly influenced the Mediterranean geopolitical landscape. It not only provided the Knights with a robust defensive position but also became a flourishing center of trade and culture, attracting craftsmen, artists, and soldiers alike. The city was named after Valette as a tribute to his leadership. Over the years, Valletta's architecture and historic sites would garner recognition, eventually leading to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.