Malta

Malta has a long and fascinating history that goes back thousands of years. The first people arrived around 5000 BC and built some of the oldest temples in the world. Over time, many different groups ruled Malta — including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and the Knights of St. John, who built strong forts and grand churches. Later, the French and then the British took control. Malta became independent in 1964 and is now a proud and modern country with a rich mix of cultures and traditions.

Malta’s Cuisine

Malta offers a delightful mix of flavors that will excite your palate! Its cuisine blends Mediterranean traditions with Italian, Arabic, and British influences. You can taste the island’s history in every bite — from the famous rabbit stew (fenkata) to the golden, flaky pastizzi filled with ricotta or peas. Fresh seafood, olive oil, and local herbs make every meal full of flavor. And don’t forget dessert — try imqaret, a delicious date-filled pastry that perfectly ends any Maltese meal!

Arts and Crafts of Malta
Malta is full of creativity and tradition! The island is famous for its beautiful handmade crafts, passed down through generations. You can find delicate Maltese lace, colorful glassware from Mdina, and detailed filigree jewelry made from silver and gold. Local artists also paint and sculpt scenes inspired by Malta’s sunny landscapes and blue sea. Visitors love to take home these unique pieces as souvenirs, each one showing a touch of Maltese culture and craftsmanship.

Festivals and Culture in Malta
Malta’s culture is full of color, music, and celebration! The Maltese people love festivals — every town has its own “festa”, honoring a patron saint with fireworks, food, and parades. The biggest ones light up the summer skies! Traditional music, dancing, and street parties bring locals and visitors together. Malta also hosts international events like the Malta Carnival and Isle of MTV music festival. Everywhere you go, you’ll feel the island’s joyful spirit and warm community vibe.

Malta’s architecture is a magnificent story carved in golden limestone! This iconic stone is the foundation of the island, from the Megalithic Temples, which are among the oldest free-standing structures on Earth, to the grand cities built by the Knights of St. John. The Knights introduced the majestic Baroque style, which dominates Valletta and features ornate facades and immense domes. You’ll instantly recognize the traditional Maltese townhouse by its characteristic feature: the ‘gallarija’—a beautiful, enclosed wooden balcony, often painted in vibrant greens, blues, or reds, which stands out against the warm, honey-colored walls. Every street corner offers a blend of Arab-influenced narrow lanes and British-era Neo-Classical touches, creating a truly unique and captivating design landscape.