One of the things we enjoy most about welcoming visitors into Casa Rocca Piccola is the conversations that happen during every tour. Over the years, certain questions come up time and again, from the history of the house to the family who still lives here.
Here are some of the questions we’re asked most often.
Do you actually use the Summer Dining Room?
Yes, we do. Although it isn’t used every day, the Summer Dining Room comes to life during special family occasions such as Christmas Day, Easter Sunday and important birthdays.
The room has also hosted a number of exclusive private events over the years. Among its guests have been Prime Ministers, members of royalty, celebrities and even a former President of France.
There is something truly magical about seeing the room in use. During the day it is filled with conversation and laughter, while in the evening it glows by candlelight, creating an atmosphere that is simply unforgettable.
Is Casa Rocca Piccola still lived in?
Absolutely.
Casa Rocca Piccola is not a museum that has been frozen in time, it is a family home. The de Piro family continues to live here and regularly uses the house for family gatherings, celebrations and special occasions.
This is one of the reasons visitors often describe the house as feeling warm and authentic. Every room tells a story because it continues to be part of everyday life.
How old is the Bentley?
The Bentley at Casa Rocca Piccola is now over 77 years old.
Despite its age, it remains in excellent condition and is still driven several times each month. Around twenty years ago, the car underwent a complete restoration, during which it was entirely dismantled before being carefully rebuilt piece by piece.
It’s one of the highlights of the house and a favourite among car enthusiasts.
Was Casa Rocca Piccola bombed during the Second World War?
Thankfully, no.
Although Valletta suffered extensive bombing during the Second World War, Casa Rocca Piccola escaped a direct hit despite several very close calls.
The underground shelters beneath the house protected hundreds of people throughout the bombing raids. While some shelters elsewhere in Valletta collapsed after direct strikes, everyone sheltering beneath Casa Rocca Piccola remained safe.
Today, visitors can still explore these remarkable wartime shelters as part of the tour.
When did Casa Rocca Piccola open to the public?
Casa Rocca Piccola first opened its doors to visitors in 1991 following an extensive restoration project.
In 2004, another significant milestone was reached when the section of the house previously occupied by other members of the family was reunited with the main residence. This made it possible for visitors to experience the complete Piano Nobile, including all twelve state rooms.
Since then, further restoration projects have continued, including opening the historic bomb shelters by uncovering long-blocked tunnels, as well as developing the property’s unique boutique accommodation.
How old is Kiku III, and why is he called Kiku III?
Kiku III, the much-loved blue-and-gold macaw of Casa Rocca Piccola, was born on 7th June 2011.
His name reflects a family tradition. He is the third macaw to have lived with the de Piro family over the past sixty years, making him the latest in a long line of colourful household residents who have become favourites with visitors.
Who are the de Piro family?
The de Piro family’s connection with Malta stretches back almost five centuries.
They arrived on the island in 1530 alongside the Order of St John after being forced to leave the Greek island of Rhodes following its conquest by the Ottoman Empire under Suleiman the Magnificent.
The family was entrusted with the important responsibility of safeguarding the Order’s gunpowder stores, a role believed to be linked to the origin of their surname, derived from the Greek word pyr (πῦρ), meaning “fire.”
Over the centuries, the family received several noble titles, including Baron of Budaq in 1716 from Grand Master Raimondo Perellos y Rocafull, and Marquis de Piro in 1742 from King Philip V of Spain.
Today, Casa Rocca Piccola remains the family home, preserving centuries of Maltese history while continuing to welcome visitors from around the world.
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