Malta

Malta, officially the Republic of Malta, is an island country in Southern Europe located in the Mediterranean Sea, between Sicily and North Africa. It consists of an archipelago 80 km (50 mi) south of Italy, 284 km (176 mi) east of Tunisia, and 333 km (207 mi) north of Libya. The two official languages are Maltese and English, but Maltese is recognised as the national language. The country's capital is Valletta, which is the smallest capital city in the European Union by both area and population.

With a population of about 574,250 spread over an area of 316 km² (122 sq mi), Malta is the world's tenth-smallest country by area and the ninth-most densely populated. Its location in the centre of the Mediterranean has historically given it great geostrategic importance, with many different powers ruling the islands over time.

Malta has been inhabited since at least 6500 BC, during the Mesolithic. Its rich history includes rule by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Knights Hospitaller, French, and British. Malta gained independence in 1964 and joined the European Union in 2004.

Today, Malta is a developed country with a strong economy, relying heavily on tourism. Its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and many important historical sites attract visitors from around the world. Three of its sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the city of Valletta and some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

Name

The name Malta comes from many old languages. It started with the ancient Greeks, who called the island Melítē, meaning "place of honey." They might have chosen this name because Malta had many bees. Later, other people, like the Phoenicians, may have called it Maleth, meaning "haven" or "port," because of its safe harbours. Today, we call the country Malta, and people from there are known as Maltese.

History

Main article: History of Malta

Malta has been home to people for a very long time, starting around 6500 BC. Early hunters and gatherers arrived from nearby Sicily. They left behind tools, hearths, and bones of animals they ate, including fish, sea creatures, and even some special red deer that are no longer around. These early people had to travel a long distance over water to reach Malta.

Later, around 3500 BC, new builders arrived and constructed some of the world’s oldest known temples, like Ġgantija on the island of Gozo. These temples had special designs and were used for many years. Eventually, a different group of people came during the Bronze Age, bringing new traditions and smaller stone structures called dolmens.

Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Romans

See also: Magna Graecia, Phoenicia, Cippi of Melqart, Ancient Rome, Sicilia (Roman province), and Byzantine Malta

Around 1000 BC, traders from Phoenicia settled in Malta and named it Ann. After Phoenicia fell, the island was controlled by Carthage. Later, during wars between Rome and Carthage, Malta was taken by Roman forces. Under Roman rule, Malta became a free town and kept much of its old traditions while slowly adopting Roman ways.

Arab period and the Middle Ages

See also: Arab–Byzantine wars and Islam in Malta

In the 870s, Arab forces from North Africa took over Malta after a tough battle. They rebuilt the island and brought new farming methods, crops, and the Maltese language, which evolved from a mix of Arab and Sicilian influences.

Norman conquest

Main article: Norman invasion of Malta

In 1091, the Normans from Sicily arrived in Malta. They brought Christianity back and built new structures, though the island faced many changes in rulers over the next centuries.

Crown of Aragon and the Knights of Malta

See also: County of Sicily, Kingdom of Sicily, Crown of Aragon, Hospitaller Malta, Great Siege of Malta, and António Manoel de Vilhena

From 1282 to 1530, Malta was ruled by leaders from Aragon. In 1530, the Knights Hospitaller, a group of warrior monks, were given Malta by the Holy Roman Emperor. They built strong forts, including the famous city of Valletta, and protected the island for many years.

French period and British conquest

Main articles: French occupation of Malta and Siege of Malta (1798–1800)

In 1798, Napoleon stopped in Malta on his way to Egypt and took control. The French made many changes but became unpopular. The Maltese people rebelled, and soon after, Britain helped them push the French out. Malta became a British colony in 1814.

British Empire and the Second World War

During World War II, Malta was very important for the Allies because it was close to enemy shipping routes. The island was bombed many times, but the people stayed strong. For their bravery, Malta was awarded the George Cross, which is now part of the country’s flag.

Independence and Republic

See also: State of Malta

Malta became independent in 1964 and became a republic in 1974. The country joined the European Union in 2004 and started using the euro as its money in 2008.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Malta

Malta is a group of islands in the Mediterranean Sea, about 80 km from Italy and near North Africa. The main islands are Malta, Gozo, and Comino. These islands sit on a natural land bridge that once connected Sicily and Africa, now separated by the sea.

Malta has a warm climate with mild winters and hot summers. The islands have low hills, few trees, and no large rivers or lakes. The highest point is Ta' Dmejrek, standing at 253 meters above sea level. Malta's plants and animals are special to the Mediterranean area, though many face threats from human activities and invasive species.

Government and politics

Main articles: Politics of Malta and Government of Malta

See also: Law of Malta and Foreign relations of Malta

Malta is a republic with a system of government similar to the Westminster system. It has a single parliament called the House of Representatives, which includes the president of Malta and 65 elected members. These members are chosen every five years by people voting, unless the president decides to end the term early.

The president of Malta is mostly a ceremonial leader, chosen for five years by the House of Representatives. The main leader, called the prime minister, is selected by the president based on who can get the most support in the House. Today, the prime minister is Robert Abela, who has been in charge since January 2020. Malta’s politics are mainly led by two large parties: the Labour Party and the Nationalist Party.

Main articles: Local councils of Malta, Districts of Malta, and Regions of Malta

Malta is divided into six regions, including one for the island of Gozo. Each region has its own council to help manage local areas. These regions are further split into 68 local councils, where leaders are chosen by people living there to take care of local needs.

Main article: Armed Forces of Malta

The Armed Forces of Malta work to protect the country’s land, sea, and air. They also help with safety duties, such as watching over important places and helping during emergencies.

Main article: Human rights in Malta

Malta is known for supporting equal rights, including for people who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. The country does not allow certain harmful practices meant to change someone’s identity. Malta also makes sure people with disabilities are treated fairly. The country has laws about marriage and health choices that protect people’s rights.

Economy

Main article: Economy of Malta

Malta is known as an advanced economy, meaning it has a strong and developed system for producing and trading goods and services. The country’s main resources include limestone, a good location in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, and a hard-working group of people. Malta grows only about 20 percent of its own food and has limited fresh water, so it relies on imports for many needs. The economy depends on trade, making and selling products like electronics and clothes, and welcoming tourists. Movies are also made on the island, adding to its economy.

Because of its location, Malta joined the European Union in 2004. This helped the country grow its finances and attract businesses in areas like banking, airplanes and ships, and fun activities like games and gambling. Malta uses the euro as its money and has two big banks: Bank of Valletta and HSBC Bank Malta. The country is working on building more ways to create and use energy, like solar power, and plans to improve its public transportation with a new underground train system called the Malta Metro.

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of Malta

Malta is a small island country with a rich mix of people. As of the 2021 census, most people living in Malta were born there, but there are also families from other places. People from the United Kingdom, Italy, India, the Philippines, and Serbia make up some of the largest groups.

Malta has a lot of people living close together, making it one of the most crowded places in Europe. The country has two official languages: Maltese and English. Most people can speak both, and many also know other languages like Italian or French.

Languages

Main article: Languages of Malta

See also: § Education

Maltese is the national language of Malta, and English is also an official language. Both are used in schools and government. Maltese is a special language that comes from old Arabic words mixed with Italian and other languages. Most people in Malta can speak both Maltese and English easily.

Religion

Main article: Religion in Malta

Most people in Malta believe in the Catholic faith. There are many churches, and Catholic traditions are important in daily life. There are also smaller groups of people who follow other religions, like Orthodox Christianity, Islam, and others, but the Catholic Church is the most common.

Migration

Main articles: Immigration to Malta and Emigration from Malta

In the past, many people from Malta moved to other countries looking for work. Today, Malta has become a place where people from other countries come to live, especially from the United Kingdom, Italy, and other parts of Europe. The country has also seen changes in how people move, with some coming for work and others passing through on their way to Europe.

Education

Main article: Education in Malta

See also: List of schools in Malta

Children in Malta go to school for free, starting at age five. They learn reading, writing, math, and science, and they study both Maltese and English. After primary school, they continue to secondary school until they are sixteen. Many students then go on to study at the University of Malta, where most courses are taught in English.

Health

Main article: Health in Malta

See also: Healthcare in Malta

Malta has good healthcare for everyone. There are public hospitals where people can get care for free, and there are also private hospitals. The main hospital, Mater Dei, is one of the biggest in Europe. The country also has many groups that help with health and emergency services, like the Red Cross.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Malta

The culture of Malta is rich and varied, shaped by the many different peoples who have lived on the islands over time.

Customs

Main article: Maltese folklore

Maltese stories often include tales of mysterious creatures and events from another world. These stories were collected by a scholar named Manwel Magri in a book called “Fables from our Forefathers.” Some of these tales feature unique Maltese creatures like the Kaw kaw, Il-Belliegħa, and L-Imħalla.

Traditions

Traditional Maltese culture places great importance on family, especially having children. One popular tradition for a child’s first birthday is a game called il-quċċija, where objects are placed around the child to see which one they are most interested in, which is said to predict their future.

Festivals and events

Malta has many lively festivals, much like those in Southern Italy. One of the biggest is the festa, held in honor of a local saint. These festivals include music, fireworks, and a special church service. Carnival is another big event, featuring colorful parades and costumes.

Architecture

Main article: Architecture of Malta

Malta’s buildings show influences from many cultures, including the Romans and the British. Some of the oldest structures on the islands were built thousands of years ago. The Romans left behind beautiful mosaics and marble columns, which can still be seen today.

Art

Towards the end of the 15th century, Maltese art began to adopt new styles from Italy. Over the years, many famous artists have worked on the islands, creating beautiful paintings and sculptures that can still be seen in churches and museums today.

Music

Main article: Music of Malta

Malta has a mix of traditional and modern music. Traditional Maltese music, called għana, features singing and guitar playing. Today, Malta is also home to many talented musicians and bands who perform a wide range of music styles.

Literature

Main article: Maltese literature

Maltese writing has a long history. The nation’s national poet, Dun Karm Psaila, was very popular in the past. Today, many writers continue to create stories and poems in both Maltese and English.

Media

Further information: List of newspapers in Malta, List of radio stations in Malta, and Television in Malta

Malta has many newspapers, television channels, and radio stations. Some of the most popular newspapers are The Times of Malta and It-Torċa. There are also several TV channels, including TVM and NET Television.

Cuisine

Main article: Maltese cuisine

See also: List of Maltese dishes

Maltese food is influenced by nearby countries like Sicily and Italy, as well as by English, Spanish, and North African cuisines. Rabbit stew, known as fenkata, is a traditional dish. Potatoes are also a common part of many meals.

Sport

Main article: Sport in Malta

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Malta. Other popular sports include boċċi, horse racing, water polo, and clay pigeon shooting. In recent years, Malta has also become a place for esports tournaments.