Malta History

About Malta

Malta is a small but striking archipelago at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, roughly 80 kilometres south of Sicily. Despite its modest size, Malta packs in thousands of years of human history, breathtaking landscapes, and an unmistakable blend of European and North African influences. The country is a full member of the European Union, uses the euro as its currency, and is renowned for its hospitality, safety, and year-round sunshine — making it a vibrant destination all year round.

For over 7,000 years, these islands have been home, fortress, trading post, and sanctuary. Neolithic temple builders, Phoenician merchants, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, the Order of St. John (Knights of Malta), Napoleon’s forces, and the British Empire have all left their mark here. Malta also features in the Christian tradition: the Apostle Paul is said to have been shipwrecked on the islands in AD 60, bringing Christianity to Malta. This unique mix of peoples and cultures has shaped everything from the Maltese language — a Semitic tongue with heavy Romance and English influences — to the islands’ architecture, food, and customs.

World-Class Heritage and Unforgettable Landmarks

Malta is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

The Megalithic Temples of Malta – older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids.

The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum – an underground Neolithic burial complex.

The City of Valletta – founded by the Knights of St. John in 1566, featuring St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and panoramic Upper Barrakka Gardens.

The fortified medieval city of Mdina, known as the “Silent City,” showcases Norman and Baroque architecture, while nearby Rabat highlights Malta’s Christian heritage with St Paul’s Grotto and catacombs.

The Rural Allure of Gozo and Comino

Just a 25-minute ferry ride away, Gozo offers a slower pace of life and dramatic scenery. Famous for its terraced hills, rugged coastline, and red-sand beaches such as Ramla Bay, Gozo feels like Malta’s greener cousin. Visitors can explore the ancient Ġgantija Temples — even older than Malta’s main island sites — and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and diving.

Between Malta and Gozo lies the tiny island of Comino, known for the Blue Lagoon. This dazzling turquoise bay is one of the Mediterranean’s most photographed spots and perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and boat excursions during the warmer months.

A Living Culture

Malta isn’t just about the past — it’s a thriving, forward-looking country with a lively calendar of events. Visitors can expect major music festivals, village feasts (“festas”) with fireworks and marching bands, international sporting events, and art biennales.

The islands’ food scene is also flourishing, blending traditional Maltese dishes like rabbit stew, pastizzi, and ftira with contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and international flavours. English and Maltese are both official languages, and English remains widely spoken, making travel, study, and work easier for international visitors.

Tradition Meets Modern Mediterranean Living

This archipelago remains a kaleidoscope of past and present — a fascinating blend of European culture and rural Mediterranean tradition. You can marvel at prehistoric temples in the morning, enjoy designer shopping or waterfront dining in the afternoon, and dance at world-class clubs at night.

With more boutique hotels, restored palazzos, and eco-friendly initiatives emerging every year, Malta continues to reinvent itself while respecting its roots. Whether you’re drawn by history, beaches, diving, language learning, or simply sunshine, Malta, Gozo, and Comino offer an unparalleled experience.

Whether you are drawn by history, culture, nature, or the sun-soaked Mediterranean lifestyle, Malta offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every visitor. From ancient temples and bustling markets to serene beaches and vibrant festivals, the islands provide a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Exploring Malta, Gozo, and Comino allows you to uncover hidden gems, embrace new adventures, and create memories that will last a lifetime.