Malta is rich in history and culture, infact there are very few places in the world other than Malta, that can claim to have monuments so old, that they predate the Pyramids of Egypt. Although small, this Mediterranean island has a ton of well-preserved megaliths, ancient palaces, cathedrals, bastions, and even an entire walled city.
The History of Malta
The islands of Malta have a rich and intriguing history that reportedly goes back to before the Stone Age, which is why it offers a lot of points of interest. If the rocky cliffs and rugged trees that make up Malta’s landscape could talk, they’d have a very colorful story to tell. These islands have been home to many different cultures and civilizations and it’s a miracle to still find marks and clues to this day.
First, records show that there were Stone Age farmers, who thrived on the islands around 5200 BC, followed by the Arabs who were toppled by the Romans, then came the Bynzanties and the Knights of St John, followed by The Normans, the French and then the British. In fact, Malta is the only other country apart from Great Britain that Queen Elizabeth II has called home, as she lived on the island for two years after her marriage to Prince Philip of Mountbatten. However, Malta became an independent state in 1964 when it was freed from British rule for good.
Nevertheless, each of these cultures left an indelible mark on the islands that can still be felt in its kaleidoscope of flavors, its varied but beautiful architecture, and rich culture.
For example, the accidental arrival of St. Paul on the island during Normal rule, led to the majority of the population adopting Christianity, which is still a favourable religion on the island today.
Plus, World War II was by far the toughest period in Maltese history, because that is when the country earned its reputation as the most bombed place in the world.
Malta’s history is definitely one of its main attractions, and this is part of what makes it a popular destination for history buffs. In fact, a lot of people visit the country just to see priceless monuments like the St James Cavalier, Palazzo Falson, The Sacra Infermeria, St Paul & St Agatha’s Catacombs, The Grandmaster’s Palace and The Mosta Dome.
Heritage of Malta
Since the Maltese islands have been inhabited by so many different cultures and nationalities, the current inhabitants exhibit a colorful heritage that draws from different influences such as the Greeks, Romans, Phoenicians, Sicilians, Normans, Aragonese, Castilian, Swabians, the Knights and of course the British. There is even a trace of Northern African culture present in Malta’s history.
Culture
While Malta’s beautiful landscape and gorgeous beaches have plenty to offer visitors in the form of swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving, there is much more to the island than its good looks. Malta is one of those destinations that you have to stay for more than a few days, in order to fully appreciate what it has to offer.
Once you’re done catching some sun and exploring all the great beaches available in Malta (of which there are plenty), you can move onto the popular tourist attractions and historic sites such as M’dina, The Hypogeum, the Temples and GharDalam to name but a few. There are also plenty of interesting museums to visit.
Village fiestas are a thing of legend here and virtually take over the local streets during the summer season, which is also the time when most tourists come to see the island. Not only do the restaurants serve a vibrant mix of scrumptious world-class cuisine, but there’s always beautiful live music playing in the café’s from Ghana bands to contemporary artists.
Traditions
Just like any other country, Malta has different traditions for which the locals can be proud. For example, most people are very religious and either subscribe to Christian or Roman Catholic beliefs. As a result, the first right of passage that individuals go through is either a christening or baptism.
These landmark events in an individuals life are usually followed by robust family celebrations which are attended by immediate and extended family, as well as friends and neighbors. As you can imagine, they are quite raucous affairs with lots of food and wine flowing freely as a new member is welcomed into the society.
After that, comes the child’s first birthday, another significant moment that is characterized by a custom known as il-quċċija. During this ritual which dates back to the 18th century, several objects are placed in front of the child that are said to symbolize a possible future career. The child is then encouraged to crawl or waddle towards the object and the one they pick foretells what their calling will be. Some of the most commonly used objects and their meanings include:
1) Rosary beads- religious leader
2) Calculator – a career in finance
3) Hardboiled egg – wealth
4) Stethoscope- Doctor
Throughout the different age milestones, the individual goes through numerous rituals and celebrations, from Holy Communion to weddings. However, at the center of these celebrations are religion, family and food!
Other traditions that the Maltese celebrate regardless of religious affiliation include;
1) Victoria Day: This day marks several occasions such as the end of the culmination of the Great Siege of 1565, the Italian Navy’s surrender in World War 2, as well as Our Lady’s Birth.
2) Notte Bianca: Each year on this day, all of the country’s historical buildings and museums stay open all night long and are free to visit. There are usually many different celebrations happening across the Capital City as well to mark the special day.
3) In Guadia and Alarme: This annual celebration is in honor of a number of historic events, from the 1800 rebellion against Napoleon, the Garrison inspection and the Grand Bailiff of the order of the Knights fort. All of these events are marked by re-enactments that happen once a year.
Architecture in Malta
Some of the most renowned landmarks in Malta include the recently collapsed Azure Window which was not only one of the most significant Mediterranean landmarks, but also played center stage in blockbuster movies and television shows like Game of Thrones.
Of course, no article on the splendor of Malta’s history and culture can be complete without mentioning the capital Valletta, an ancient fort that is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient city is built on such a high point that just standing on its famous Upper Barrakka Gardens gives you an unparalleled view of the Grand Harbor and the stunning Three Cities (Birgu, Cospicua and Senglea) as well as their landscape of ship masts, spires and domes.
Another important monument in Malta is St John’s Co-Cathedral which is an art-lover’s haven, as it houses numerous works of art that are priceless as they are beautiful, and the baroque interiors are a marvel to behold!
Food
Maltese food is often very wholesome healthy, and is served in generous portions. A popular Maltese dishe to try is the pastizz pastry parcel, a popular snack among locals and tourists alike. Other popular dishes include Maltese bread, a rich flavorful soup called Soppatal-Armla and sweets like Figolla, Imqaret, Biskuttinital-Lewz and Cassata.
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Interesting that a hardboiled egg is associated with wealth… haha. I wonder who came up with that!