Table of Contents
Introduction
The Mediterranean island nation of Malta boasts a rich history spanning over 7,000 years. Strategically located in the center of the Mediterranean Sea, it has been ruled by various civilizations including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, French, and British, all of whom have left their mark. This unique legacy has shaped the culture and heritage of Malta into a vibrant fusion of influences. From ancient temples and fortified cities to baroque cathedrals and coastal villages, Malta offers visitors a wide array of sights. Beyond its material treasures, the island also charms with its laidback pace of life, crystal clear waters, and tasty Mediterranean cuisine. This article explores the varied cultural and natural wonders of Malta, providing an inspirational overview for those considering a visit to this captivating archipelago.
History and Culture
Ancient Roots
The Maltese islands have been inhabited since 5,200 BC. Their strategic location made them prized by the major Mediterranean civilizations. Megalithic temples like Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra provide a window into the island’s mysterious prehistoric inhabitants. Later, the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans left their traces, with lavish villas adorning the countryside. Christianity arrived in 60AD, shaping Maltese culture, identity, and artistic expression over the centuries.
Influence of Different Civilizations
Waves of invasion and cultural exchange followed. Arab rulers introduced irrigation systems in the 9th century, visible in placenames like Mdina, meaning “walled city”. The Norman Kings and Holy Roman Empire then wrested control, erecting fortified cities like the capital Valletta. The Knights of St John settled in Malta in 1530, building ostentatious palaces and churches before the islands fell into British hands in 1800. This succession of rulers made its mark through language, cuisine, and architecture.
Local Traditions and Way of Life
Despite its small size, each Maltese town and village has its own unique identity and feast day celebrating the local patron saint. Other traditions include lace making, religious folk music called għana, and colorful Maltese proverbs known as kliem għaqli. Locals proudly maintain these customs, which infuseenergy into everyday life. A visit offers a chance to experience the islands’ distinctive festivals and time-honored way of life.
Valletta
Capital City
Malta’s capital Valletta provides an ideal introduction to the country’s cultural treasures. Built in the 16th century as a bastion against the Ottoman Empire, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was one of the first planned cities in Europe. Its imposing Baroque palaces and churches, built with local limestone, line neat grid-like streets full of quirky shops and cafés.
Architecture and Landmarks
The city’s main landmark is St John’s Co-Cathedral, whose ornate interior contains the only signed Caravaggio and an extraordinary marble floor memorializing Knights of the Order. Equally impressive are the Grand Master’s Palace with its Armory, and renovated ruins of the Royal Opera House bombed in WWII. The Upper Barrakka Gardens offer stunning panoramas over the Grand Harbour.
Museums and Galleries
Valletta’s museums provide insight into Malta’s artistic and cultural development. The National Museum of Archaeology displays artifacts spanning from temple times to the Phoenicians, while the National Museum of Fine Arts houses an excellent art collection. Smaller niche museums cover toys, war, natural history, and the Great Siege of 1565.
Coastal Towns
Picturesque Fishing Villages
Beyond Valletta, Malta’s coastal towns exude old-world charm with their warm honey-colored limestone, fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, and slow unhurried pace of life. Highlights include Marsaxlokk with its colorful boat houses, Senglea’s waterfront gardens, and the walled city of Mdina near Rabat recognized as Malta’s former capital.
Beaches and Coastal Walks
Malta’s beaches and lidos offer tempting swimming spots along the rocky coastline. Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa showcase the island’s famous red sand. Seaside promenades like Sliema’s let you stroll by the sea and spot funky fishing boats named Guzé Ellul and Pawlu Bis-Saħħa.
Water Sports and Activities
The sapphire blue Mediterranean waters also provide the backdrop for numerous water sports. Have a go at sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, or snorkeling to discover shipwrecks, marine caves, and teeming sea life. Thrill-seekers can try jet skiing, parasailing, or diving to explore underwater wrecks and grottos.
Natural Wonders
Blue Lagoon
One of Malta’s most photographed sights, the Blue Lagoon impresses with its otherworldly emerald and turquoise hues. Formed by nearby limestone quarries, its shallow waters make an inviting place for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. Boat trips from the nearby village of Comino let you experience the lagoon’s beauty.
Dingli Cliffs
On the west coast, the Dingli Cliffs present breathtaking 250m precipices—the island’s highest point. Gaze out over the wide expanse of sea and take in views stretching all the way to Sicily on a clear day. Walk along the cliffs for striking scenery over tiny bays and islets like Filfla.
Azure Window
Though the renowned natural arch of the Azure Window collapsed in a storm, the area remains impressive for kayaking, snorkeling, and admiring seascapes. The Inland Sea—a lagoon ringed by limestone cliffs—makes a peaceful swimming spot sheltered from the open sea.
Maltese Cuisine
Mediterranean Diet
Given Malta’s Mediterranean setting and climate, its cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, vegetables, pasta, olive oil, tomatoes, capers, and the juicy Maltese potato. Try lampuki fish, torta tal-lampuki (lampuki pie), or aljotta—a zesty fish broth. Be sure to sample local specialties like rabbit la Maltija, bigilla bean dip, and pastizzi savory pastries.
Local Specialties and Wines
Malta produces several DOC classified wines like Gellewza and Ghirghentina grapes. Fenek (rabbit stew) and bragioli (beef olives wrapped in bacon) are mouthwatering meat dishes. The islands even boast their own cheeses including gbejniet and irkotta. For dessert, try honey-drenched treats and almond and tangerine ross il-forn cake.
Recommended Restaurants
Valletta eateries offer fine dining with a view, for example Legligin with its intimate atmosphere and homemade pasta. Simple family-run trattorias in places like Marsaxlokk serve the catch of the day alongside local specialties. Don’t miss a chance to try ftira—traditional Maltese street food sandwiches stuffed with ingredients like goat cheese, olives, capers, tuna, and Bigilla.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Bars and Clubs
By night, Malta shakes off its quaint village image, with pulsating nightclubs, wine bars, pubs, and live music venues concentrated in hotspots like Paceville and Bugibba. Among the more unique options, the Bridge Bar in Valletta sits atop a historic drawbridge while the Farsons Great Beer Factory offers craft beer in an industrial setting.
Festivals and Events
Visiting during one of Malta’s lively traditional festivals lets you immerse yourself in local culture. These include Carnival, the sprawling village feasts, the International Fireworks Festival, and the Isle of MTV music extravaganza. The expressive Maltese love any excuse to decorate streets, play festive music, and savor food.
Casinos and Shows
Malta’s casinos provide classic entertainment like roulette, blackjack, and slot machines. The largest is the Portomaso Casino in upscale St Julian’s, while the Oracle Casino in Buġibba offers live events. Theater and music lovers can enjoy opera, concerts, and shows at iconic venues like the Manoel Theatre and Mediterranean Conference Centre.
Practical Tips
Getting Around
Buses operated by Malta Public Transport offer an efficient and economical way of getting around, especially with a handy Explore Card. Many places are accessible on foot, like Mdina and Valletta. You can also rent a car or book an organized tour for convenience. Avoid using taxis as they are quite expensive.
Best Time to Visit
Malta enjoys pleasant weather from April to mid-June, and September to October when temperatures are milder. July to mid-September sees more crowds and intense heat. Winter offers cultural events and New Year festivities but unpredictable weather.
Useful Phrases in Maltese
The Maltese language derives from Siculo-Arabic but borrows vocabulary liberally from English and Italian. Handy phrases include bonġu (good morning), grazzi (thank you), kemm? (how much?), and ftit (a little).
Conclusion
With enthralling history, scenic landscapes, delicious food, and exuberant culture, the Maltese Islands offer an appealing Mediterranean destination. Valletta’s historic core, quaint fishing villages, ancient sites, and glittering blue coastline combine to provide an unforgettable travel experience. Beyond its visual richness, Malta charms with its warm, welcoming people and lively festivals that form an integral fabric of everyday life. Visitors leave enchanted by the islands’ diverse pleasures and unique ambience.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to get around Malta?
A: Buses are the most convenient and cost-effective transportation around Malta. Consider purchasing a Malta Public Transport Explore Card for unlimited travel. Renting a car is also an option, but parking and driving can be tricky.
Q: When is the best time of year to visit Malta?
A: The best time is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April – May) and fall (September – October), when the weather is milder and tourist crowds thinner. Summer is very hot and busy, while winter has unpredictable weather.
Q: What language do they speak in Malta?
A: The Maltese language is the official language, which is similar to Arabic but incorporates many Italian and English words too. Fortunately, most Maltese also speak very good English.
Q: What are the must-see sights and activities in Malta?
A: Top sights include Valletta, Mdina, Megalithic Temples, Blue Lagoon, and Dingli Cliffs. Recommended activities include trying Maltese cuisine, joining a festival, visiting museums, and water sports like sailing and scuba diving.
Q: Is Malta expensive to visit?
A: While not the cheapest destination, Malta offers good value compared to other European countries. Avoiding the peak summer period, using public buses, and choosing less expensive restaurants and lodging can keep costs down.