Have you heard of Malta? A small island right in the middle of the Mediterranean sea. The island covers only 316 square kilometers of land. It is located 80 kilometers south of Sicily offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and unique experiences.
Below we will explore 13 reasons why Malta is such a surprising and enriching country to visit!
1. Malta has its own unique language, but it is also considered to be a multilingual nation
The Maltese language is truly fascinating. It is a Semitic language, as it sounds very Arabic, however it is written in Latin script. Due to Malta’s history and the different influences that its past rulers had, the Maltese language has also been shaped with the assimilation of words from Italian and English. Some say that even the Spanish and French languages have left their mark.
English is also an official language in Malta. In fact any instructions in Malta, including Maltese law, can be found written in both Maltese and English. Furthermore, Italian is also very widely spoken throughout the islands.
2. You will find hundreds of churches spread around the islands
Malta and Gozo collectively home a total of 359 churches. This means that on average, you will find more than one church per square kilometer! Embracing its Roman Catholic roots, every locality boasts its own parish church, with some, like Sliema and Birkirkara, having multiple.
3. Malta is quite strong in rugby as a sport
If there is one sport in which Malta has managed to truly leave its mark, we’d say it would be rugby! In fact, in July 2022, Malta’s national rugby league team reached its highest world ranking, placing 10th globally. One might say this is quite a remarkable achievement for a nation with a population of just over half a million people.
4. Malta has become a truly multicultural hub, hosting a diverse population
Wherever you come from around the world, it is highly likely that you will find a fellow national of yours living in Malta! Over one-third of foreigners living in Malta are EU citizens, with Italians making up the largest group. However, Malta also hosts people coming from nationalities that are outside of the European Union, including Filipinos and Indians to name a few.
5. You cannot leave Malta without trying its most famous savoury street food: pastizzi
If there is one thing you cannot leave the island without trying is the traditionally savoury pastries known as pastizzi. You will find pastizzi shops literally on almost every street around Malta and Gozo. From here, you can choose your favourite. Whether you opt for the ricotta or the pea version of this delicious snack. Nowadays you can also find different pastizzi fillings including chicken, as well as the sweet version filled with Nutella. All for under €1.
6. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure to try mqaret dipped in some ġelat tan-nanna
After the savoury treat, you are going to want to also get your hands on Malta’s delicious deep-fried pastry called mqaret. Mqaret is a flat pastry filled with spiced date paste, and deep-fried. You can purchase this for under €1 from minivans that you’ll find on different streets around the islands.
You will also come across this delicious dessert at many local restaurants. These typically serve it alongside Malta’s traditional ice-cream known as il-ġelat tan-nanna. The ġelat tan-nanna has a rich and creamy taste that blends the sweetness of evaporated milk with cinnamon and vanilla. You will also find some crunchy roasted almonds and chewy glazed cherries.
7. Dare to venture out from the usual touristic spots and visit Malta’s charming villages
Online you will find a lot of guides that will push you towards visiting the most touristic places around the island. While these places are very beautiful and definitely worth a visit, we encourage you to also venture out of the usual route, to visit numerous other small villages around the islands. Such villages include Għargħur, Ħal Għaxaq, is-Siġġiewi, il-Qrendi, Mġarr and Lija to mention a few!
8. If you’re a history buff, in Malta you’ll find some of the world’s oldest prehistoric temples
Malta is known to home some of the oldest prehistoric and megalithic temples in the world. These are known as Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, and Ġgantija, and they’re said to pre-date famous structures such the Pyramids of Giza as well as the Stonehenge in the UK.
9. Malta’s capital city, Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site
More exciting news for all of those who love history! Malta’s capital city, Valletta, is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is considered to be one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world due to the close proximity of architectural sites and monuments that it hosts. In 2018, it also served at the European Capital of Culture.
10. Malta is considered to be a paradise for those who love to dive
Starting from its crystal-clear waters, and ending in its numerous enchanting dive sites, Malta is also considered to be a fantastic destination for all of those who love to dive. In fact, while diving in Malta you can experience several shipwrecks, caves and even underwater statues!
11. The islands have served as a hotspot for several famous films that you have most probably heard of, or watched
If you’re wandering around locations such as Valletta or Mdina and feel a sense of familiarity or deja vu, like you might have visited these locations before…your feeling might in fact be right. Malta’s scenic landscapes have served as a backdrop for several major productions, such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, The Count of Monte Cristo, Troy and World War Z amongst many others.
12. Winters in Malta are pretty mild
Winters in Malta are considered to be very mild, and it is said that the island boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually. In fact, Malta offers a pleasant climate all-year-round, with temperatures in December being around 17°C, while in the earlier months of the year, January and February, they tend to be a bit cooler at 15°C.
13. The Maltese people love to celebrate
In Malta, people really love to celebrate! In fact, especially during the summer months, you will experience numerous traditional festas celebrating the stories of each villages’ patron saint. From fireworks, to live music and religious processions, you are in for an experience like no other.
Your call to discover the enchanting island of Malta
From its ancient temples to its mouth watering street food, Malta is a treasure ready to be found and explored. Whether you indulge in pastizzi, explore centuries-old fortifications, or dive into crystal-clear waters, you’re sure to leave the island with a sense of positivity and glow. We guarantee that Malta isn’t just another place to visit, but it’s an experience that you’ll never forget!
