Casa Rocca Piccola is a 16th-century palazzo on Republic Street that has been continuously occupied by the same aristocratic family since 1580. The De Piro family were close to the Knights of St John, and the house contains an exceptional private collection of Knights' armour, furniture, paintings, and silver. Unlike the state museums, this is a lived-in house with personal character — silverware is out, family portraits line the walls, and the rooms feel inhabited rather than arranged.
Tours take in the principal rooms, the family chapel, a remarkable wardrobe collection of ecclesiastical vestments, and the WWII shelter. The Marquis offers regular guided tours in person and has written extensively about Maltese noble history. The house also operates a small cafe in the courtyard. Entry by guided tour only.