Malta history
The small country of Malta is filled with a great and unique history. Men first established settlements on Malta thousands of years ago during the Neolithic period. After years of Italian, Greek, and French dominion over the state, the 19th century brought about English control and the inclusion into the British Empire.
19th century
The British Empire coveted the harbors and strategic position of Malta and used the island as the main headquarters of the British Mediterranean fleet. The English also allowed for the Maltese to create a legislative council comprised of Maltese natives. The mid 19th century brought about several British constitutional reforms for the Maltese, but poverty and overpopulation required significant dependence upon the British military. The later years of the 19th century was a period of economic, social, and political improvement throughout the island nation.
Quick fact!
The Megalithic Temples in Malta are, in fact, older than Egypt’s pyramids and England’s Stonehenge.
1914 – 1946
The First World War was a significant turning point for Malta. During the worldwide conflict, Malta was considered the “Nurse of the Mediterranean”, where the country became a major medical point for injured British soldiers. After World War I, Malta was granted home rule in 1921. Conflicts between the British rulers, the Maltese church, as well as the Maltese political leaders caused civil unrest and Malta resorted to the Crown Colony status it previously held in 1813.
The Maltese constitution was withdrawn and revised several times during the 1930’s, and it was finally ratified in 1936. The onset of World War II was devastating to Malta. The British moved their primary Mediterranean fleet to Egypt, and left a mere four thousand troops to defend the island of 300,000 civilians.
The first Italian and German air raids of Malta took place in 1940. Despite the small number of soldiers, Italian and German forces saw the resistance of Malta to be well defended. The Maltese people and the island nation as a whole received honorable awards from Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943. The Allied powers were able to invade Sicily from Malta, and in 1945, Churchill and Roosevelt met on Malta. The Maltese government was again awarded home rule and a renewed constitution after the war in 1946.
Quick fact!
Many people with an interest in ancient myths and legends believe Malta to be part of the Lost City of Atlantis.
1950 – present
The 1950’s were generally a rough time politically for Malta. The British government, seeing that the Maltese sought to gain complete independence, offered Maltese officials seats in the British Parliament. The Maltese council did not vote in favor of this offer, and after the resignation of the Maltese Prime Minister Dom Mintoff, a new government was not formed and Malta was again completely under British control.
In 1964 Malta declared itself a Constitutional Monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the official Head of State. Malta was shortly admitted to the United Nations, as well as the Council of Europe. The later part of the 20th century, between 1970 and 1980, great strides were made in the way of social, political, and economic reform. The late 1980’s however saw tensions in political parties as well as with the British government.
Modern Malta is a member of the European Union and uses the Euro as the national currency. The economic growth of the country is primarily due to the large amount of tourism within the nation. The beauty of Malta, the rich culture of the Maltese people, and the vast history of this island nation create a sense of wonder for travelers and tourists alike.
Maltese language and culture
Culture of Malta
Throughout the years, culture has come to the Maltese Islands throughout it’s history, due to the country’s location in the Mediterranean. Heavily influenced by its neighbours, Malta voluntarily fell under control of the British Empire of the 19th and 20th century.
Cuisine
Maltese cuisine is a blend of food found throughout Europe. Due to it’s geographical location, food in Malta is often a variation of Mediterranean specialities. English, French, Spanish and Middle-Eastern cooking traditions were brought to the island by travelers and the Knights of Saint John who hailed throughout Europe.
The presence of English forces developed tastes for items such as mustard and Worcestershire sauce have arose and have since become staples. Dishes such as Aljotta, a bouillabaisse made of fish, herbs and tomatoes are interpretations dishes found on the European mainland.
Art and architecture
Art and architecture throughout Malta is a blend of Mediterranean and British influence. Columns and arches reflect heavy Greek, Roman and Byzantine influences, whereas more modern architecture was established by the British.
Maltese art reflects natural floral and fauna taking the ceramic and sculpted form, commonly painted with red ochre. The human form is often showcased in Maltese art, such as the famous Venus of Malta.
Festivals and traditions
Celebrations and festivals are quite similar to those found in Southern Italy. Days devoted to christenings, mass and paying homage to saints are quite common throughout the year. These religious inspired celebrations are often followed by parades, fireworks and late parties. Masked balls, elaborate costumes, marching bands and large floats marks the beginning of Carnival, the week leading to Ash Wednesday, a tradition brought to the island in 1535.
Mnarja is a great national feast, leftover from the Knight’s strictly imposed hunting regulations that would be lifted for one day each year.
Languages of Malta
Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English. Almost the whole population are able to speak Maltese and English. 66% of the population are able to speak Italian and an increasing number of people are able to French as well. All of this makes Malta one of the most multi-lingual countries in Europe.
Basic Maltese words and phrases
Hello – Hello
Goodbye – Ċaw
Please – Jekk jogħġbok
Thank you – Grazzi
Yes - Iva
No – Le
My name is… – Jisimni…
I don’t speak Maltese – Ma nitkellimx bil-Malti
Malta weather
The small island country of Malta enjoys a ‘Mediterranean Climate’ which is typified by hot summers and mild winters. It has generally steady weather but does feature some seasonal quirks, most notably the Sirocco. This south-easterly wind can blow in from Africa during spring and autumn bringing humidity and soaring temperatures. Even without the Sirocco, Malta is one of the warmest places in Europe averaging 3,000 sunshine hours a year!
Spring in Malta
Spring is a pleasant time of year to visit Malta with less tourists crowding the beaches and warm weather that’s not uncomfortably hot. Average temperatures range from 13ºC to 18ºC throughout the season but can rise if the Sirocco arrives from the Sahara. Pack lightweight clothing for warm weather with an extra layer for the cool sea breezes in the evening.
Summer in Malta
Book accommodation near the beach, or with a pool, in July and August. Temperatures reach well into the 30sºC, and at times over 35ºC, so you’ll need somewhere handy to cool off. Sea breezes can bring relief but humidity is also quite high. It’s advisable to avoid being out in the hottest part of the day or wear a long sleeve shirt, sunhat and sunglasses to cover up.
Autumn in Malta
While autumn in Malta is very warm compared to other parts of Europe, it can also herald rainfall. The reappearance of the Sirocco wind can also make for uncomfortable levels of humidity, especially at night. If this doesn’t bother you then make the most of average highs of 19ºC to 27ºC; average lows are 13ºC to 20ºC. It’s best to bring cool cotton clothing with a few warmer options.
Winter in Malta
December is the wettest month in Malta, but temperatures don’t fall much below 10ºC during the day. Normally you can expect around 15ºC and there’s not too much wind either at this time of year, though strong northeast gales can last for three days. Unexpected thunderstorms can also make Malta quite an exciting place to visit during winter, but you’ll need rain wear for getting out and about.
Average temperatures in Valletta
Average rainfall in Valletta
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