Malta
An island nation in the Mediterranean, Malta is a European Union member state of exceptional historical and cultural significance, shaped by millennia of conquest and trade.
At a glance
Malta is an archipelago located 80 kilometres south of Sicily, comprising the main island and several smaller islands. With a population of approximately 368,250 concentrated in the main island’s conurbation, it remains one of the world’s smallest and most densely populated states, spanning just 315.6 square kilometres.
History
Malta’s strategic position in the central Mediterranean has made it a crossroads of civilizations. The archipelago has been ruled successively by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Aragonese, Knights of Malta, the French, and the British. Italian served as the official language until 1934, reflecting this layered past. Malta joined the European Union on 1 May 2004 and adopted the euro on 1 January 2008, while maintaining Commonwealth membership.
What you see
The country’s built heritage encompasses three UNESCO World Heritage sites: the capital Valletta, the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum—a remarkable prehistoric underground temple complex—and the islands’ renowned megalithic temples. These monuments span from prehistoric times through centuries of Mediterranean rule, offering visitors an unparalleled archaeological landscape.
Cultural significance
Malta is internationally recognized as a destination for cultural tourism. The combination of its three UNESCO sites, layered architectural heritage, and pivotal historical role in Mediterranean trade and politics makes the archipelago essential for understanding European and African history. The islands’ unique blend of Maltese and English as official languages—with Italian widely spoken by over 66 per cent of the population—reflects its multicultural identity.
Key facts
- Capital: Valletta
- Largest city: Birchircara
- Area: 315.6 km²
- Official languages: Maltese and English
- UNESCO World Heritage sites: 3
- EU member since: 1 May 2004
- Eurozone member since: 1 January 2008
- Coordinates: 35.8869773, 14.5223855
- Phone: +356 22915445
Practical information
Malta has a Mediterranean climate and is accessible year-round, though summer months draw the largest tourist numbers. The official tourism website offers comprehensive planning resources and cultural information for visitors.
Getting there
Malta is reachable by air and sea. The islands lie 80 km south of Sicily, 284 km from Tunisia, and 333 km from Libya. Regular ferry services connect Malta to Sicily and other Mediterranean ports. Major international airlines serve Valletta’s airport.
Sources & resources
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