Malta Is More Interesting Than I Thought

When I first considered going to Malta, I had two conflicting thoughts. It is a playground for the rich and corrupt versus it is a sh*tehole in all the other places.

I'm glad to say, having finally plucked up the motivation to get my sorry buttocks down there, that is (almost) entirely not the case.

Why Visit Malta?

Malta is a small island nation located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, and it is a wonderful travel destination for many reasons. With its rich cultural history, beautiful landscapes, and warm weather, Malta has something to offer for every type of traveler. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Malta:

1. Cultural Heritage Malta has a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years, with influences from various civilizations including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and the Knights of St. John. The island is home to many ancient ruins and historic buildings, such as the Megalithic Temples of Malta, the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, and the capital city Valletta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Stunning Beaches Malta is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, with crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Popular beaches include the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island, Golden Bay, and Mellieha Bay.
3. Delicious Cuisine Malta's cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, with fresh seafood, pastries, and traditional Maltese dishes such as rabbit stew and pastizzi. The island is also known for its excellent wine and locally produced beer.
4. Outdoor Activities Whether you're into hiking, cycling, or water sports, Malta has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. The island's beautiful landscapes, including the cliffs of Dingli and the countryside of Gozo, are perfect for hiking and exploring. The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and other water sports.
5. Festivals and Events Malta is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, from the Malta International Fireworks Festival to the Malta Jazz Festival. The island's most famous event is the Carnival, which takes place in February and is a colorful and lively celebration of Maltese culture and history.
6. Warm Weather Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an ideal travel destination year-round. The island is particularly popular during the summer months, when tourists flock to the beaches and outdoor attractions.

All this make Malta a great place for luxury family holidays.

Malta Has A RICH History

Malta, a small island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, has a rich cultural history dating back thousands of years. The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has been ruled by various civilizations over the centuries, each leaving its mark on the island's culture and heritage.

1. Prehistoric Period Malta's prehistoric period dates back over 5,000 years and is characterized by the construction of megalithic structures known as temples. These temples, including the famous Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, are among the oldest freestanding structures in the world and are thought to have been used for religious rituals.
2. Phoenician and Carthaginian Rule The Phoenicians and Carthaginians were among the first civilizations to establish settlements on the island in the 8th century BCE. They introduced new technologies and trade, which helped to boost Malta's economy and played a significant role in shaping its culture.
3. Roman Period In 218 BCE, Malta came under Roman rule and became an important center for trade and commerce in the Mediterranean. The Romans left a lasting legacy on the island, including impressive public works such as aqueducts and roads.
4. Arab Rule From the 9th to the 11th century, Malta was ruled by the Arabs, who introduced new agricultural techniques, such as the cultivation of citrus fruits and cotton. The Arabs also had a significant impact on the island's language and architecture, with many Arabic words still in use today, and some of the island's most iconic landmarks, such as the Cittadella in Gozo, have Arab influences.
5. Knights of St. John In 1530, the Knights of St. John, a Catholic military order, were granted control of Malta by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. The Knights ruled Malta for over 250 years and left a significant impact on the island's culture and architecture. They built impressive fortifications, such as the Valletta walls, and were known for their artistic patronage, including the commissioning of works by Caravaggio.
6. British Rule Malta came under British rule in 1814 and remained a British colony until its independence in 1964. The British introduced new institutions and infrastructure, such as the railway system and the modern legal system. They also left a lasting impact on the island's language, with English becoming one of the official languages of Malta.

In conclusion, Malta's rich cultural history is the result of its strategic location at the crossroads of Mediterranean trade routes and the influence of various civilizations over the centuries. From prehistoric temples to impressive fortifications, Malta's cultural heritage is a testament to the island's long and storied past.