THE MALTESE ARCHIPELAGO, a Mediterranean splendour with a wealth of heritage...
Situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, between the south of Sicily and North Africa, Malta boasts a history of 6,000 years of civilization. The Island is saturated with fascinating historical and archaeological sites, some of which date back to before the Pyramids. Museums on the islands house a treasure trove of artifacts displaying not only Malta's tempestuous history, but art, archeology, natural history, and the archipelago’s celebrated maritime history.
Colonized thousands of years ago, Malta is situated at the epicentre of the Mediterranean and subsequently has played a crucial role in world history. Strategically placed in the narrow channel joining the eastern and the western basins of the Mediterranean Malta creates a bridge between Southern Europe and North Africa and Western Europe and the Middle East.
With a population of only 25,000 people, Gozo has a distinctive and quaint character. The countryside is greener and more spectacular, with flat-topped hills characterizing the landscape, while the coast has rugged cliffs, penetrated by steep valleys and beautiful bays. Comino is the third smallest island in the Maltese archipelago. Only a handful of farmers live there and neither cars, nor other noisy activities disturb the peaceful tranquility of this little paradise. The bays and rocks in Comino and the crystal-clear waters are ideal for any kind of water sports, especially snorkeling and scuba diving. There is regular ferry and helicopter service to and from Malta and Gozo.
Wars between Rome and Carthage, the rise of Islam, the Crusades, conflicts between Christians and Moslems, the rise and fall of Napoleon, the British Empire, the fight for democracy against Fascism and Nazism, the Cold War, the rise of a United Europe and the challenges of the Third Millennium, have all shaped and molded this fascinating island.
Malta has two official languages, Maltese and English. The English language is a leftover of about 160 years of British colonization of Malta. Maltese, whose closest languages are Arabic, Syrian, Lebanese and Palestinian, is the only Semitic language which is written in Roman alphabet. Italian, too, is widely spoken among the younger generation, particularly due to the television programs which are transmitted from nearby Italy.
Birgu is one of Malta's oldest and most beautiful towns. It has a multitude of picturesque little cobbled and meandering streets merging in the town square. The Palace of the Inquisition built during the occupation of the Knights of St. John is a popular attraction and the Parish Church which was founded in 1090 is a one of the gems of Maltese architecture. This small town has a few intimate wine bars where visitors can sample excellent local delicacies.
The night life of Malta offers a broad variety of moods ranging from all night clubbing, to cool romantic courtyards and sophisticated wine bars. Many events are held outdoors and in historic venues. The delicious and varied local cuisine is a must!
