Malta: The Country You Want to Visit

Sun, Sea, Sand, and History

Located at the Heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is one of this Earths most precious Jewels. Situated just south of Sicily (Italy's sister island) Malta offers unimaginable views that no words could possibly describe. This pretty little island is home to around 350,000 people. The Main Language spoke in Malta is Maltese, but a lot of the Maltese people have a strong grasp and understanding of English and Italian as these are the 2 main languages that Maltese is based upon.

With 7,000 years of history, the Maltese Islands are steeped in culture and heritage. The Islands went through a golden Neolithic period, the remains of which are the mysterious megalithic temples dedicated to the goddess of fertility. Later on, the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans and the Byzantines, all left their traces on the Islands.

One of the most amazing temples that I can write about whilst living in Malta is the Hypogeum, an underground temple, with the same layout as the megalithic temples. All of these temples are open for public viewing. Charges for these museums cost little to nothing. But booking with a travel operator might be a good idea as entrance to these temples is always difficult due to high demands with customers, who all book months in advance to visit these stunning temples.

Christianity was brought to Malta by St. Paul. He was on his way to Rome when his boat shipwrecked in Malta. These days St Paul is seen as one of Malta's Patron Saints, with the 10th of February being a bank holiday in order celebrate this Saints work on the island. Nowadays traditional boat trips can be taken from Buggibba, one of Malta's more lively towns taking you to the actually spot where St Paul's Boat shipwrecked, showing you a monument of the Saint, then taking you on a Tour of local water caves hidden around the island with amazing corals which can be seen through the crystal clear waters. Many of these tours continue into Gozo and Comino-Malta's sister islands.(more about those in Part 2)

Many of Malta's towns and villages were built to be protected from enemies in battles throughout the Islands history. They were built up thanks to the nights of St John. Building fortresses and massive walls around many of the outer cities to protect them from attack. These protective barriers were so strong that they helped in protecting Malta in the World War 2. Many areas of Malta have been so well conserved. All of these pieces that build up Malta are still in a good state.

Many Cathedrals were also built in this time. All of these having an amazing history behind them. For example the Mosta Dome. It's as the 4rd Biggest Dome in Europe. During mass in World War 2, enemies bombed through the ceiling of the church. This bomb miraculously never went off. And till this present day, the actual bomb that was dropped on the church is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Entry into all churches and Cathedrals is Free.

The World's Largest Cannon is Found in Malta, and amazingly is still fired once a year, sending vibrations around the country. The massive 100-ton gun used as a coastal battery, was designed to become the world's largest cannon.

The gun, still on show at Fort Rinella, has a barrel almost 10-metres long and could fire a one-ton shell about three miles. Animated tours of the Fort, and the cannon itself happen daily by Maltese heritage volunteers, dressed as Victorian soldiers. Entrance to this Fort is again little to nothing.

This is a brief insight into Maltas history. The document would continue going on forever. In following parts I will be talking about Malta's Entertainment, Shopping, Traditions and Clubbing.

Thank You.