Malta

Malta, officially the Republic of Malta (Maltese: Repubblika ta’ Malta), is a developed southern European country and consists of an archipelago situated centrally in the Mediterranean, 93 km south of Sicily and 288 km north-east of Tunisia, with Gibraltar 1,826 km to the west and Alexandria 1,510 km to the east.

Malta covers just over 300 km² in land area, making it one of Europe’s smallest and one of Europe’s most densely populated countries. Its de facto capital is Valletta and the largest city is Birkirkara. Maltese is the national language and a co-official language, alongside English.

Throughout history, Malta’s location has given it great strategic importance and a sequence of powers including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Fatimids, Sicilians, Knights of St John, French and British have all ruled the islands. Malta gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1964 and became a Republic in 1974, whilst retaining membership in the Commonwealth of Nations. It is a member of the United Nations (since 1964) and a member of the European Union (since 2004). Malta is also party to the Schengen Agreement (since 2007) and member of the eurozone (since 2008).

Malta has a long Christian legacy and is an Apostolic See. According to the Acts of the Apostles, St. Paul was shipwrecked on the island and ministered there. Catholicism continues to be the official and dominant religion in Malta.

What to do

Malta is known for its world heritage sites, most prominently the Megalithic Temples which are the oldest free-standing structures in Europe.
Going to Valetta, the capital of Malta, is worth a day trip.
Visit beaches
Bird life
Monasteries of Malta

Where to stay

CORINTHIA HOTEL ST. GEORGE’S BAY, Malta

Getting around

Buses (xarabank or karozza tal-linja) are the primary method of public transport for the islands, which offer a relatively cheap and frequent service to many parts of Malta and Gozo. The vast majority of buses on Malta depart from a large circular terminus in Valletta.
New public transport

Where to eat

Terrazza, Spinola, St. .lulians, Tel: 2138 4939, Mob: 7938 4939

Terrazza, situated right in the heart of picturesque Spinola Bay, St.Julians can be reached either from the Cavallieri Hotel end by following the road to the nay or the steps by the ‘Love’ sculpture. Locatec en a high terrace away from the noise and traffic, Terrazza offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a truly relaxing atmosphere. Excellent Mediterranean and Local Cuisine; a wide selection of fresh fish, pasta & meat dishes together with a varied and exquisite range of local and foreign wines. All this, together with friendly and efficient service, makes Terrazza the natural choice for a definitely pleasant, dining experience. Special menus are available for group bookings. Terrazza is open daily noon 11p.m.

What to bring home