Malta, often mistaken as a single island, is actually an archipelago comprising three main inhabited islands: Malta and Gozo and Comino and quite a number of others that are much smaller in size. Also known as the ‘Maltese Islands,’ this place is gradually becoming famous for history lovers, scenery enthusiasts and lovers of active culture. Now let’s look at all the 15 interesting things that one should not miss in Malta.
1. Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is thus one of Malta’s most interesting archeological sites since the structure is pre-historic. This one is another famous underground temple which is a UNESCO site as well and has fairly labyrinthine mystique as it has more than one level and was used not only for worship but also for burying the dead. The labyrinth like design and other structures and carvings that exist in Hypogeum look to facilitate a people’s spiritual life possibly in the form of religious rites.
Because of the remarkable work and since the site is comparatively small, there is a limited number of visitors allowed at any one time and, therefore, you should book your tickets in advance. Touring this site makes one gain a wonderful opportunity to see what the ancient world of Malta was like, as most of the structures and artifacts are well preserved.
2. Valletta
Malta’s capital, Valletta has many respected historical and cultural sites across the city. However, surely enough, Valletta has many sights to offer that range from large buildings to narrow vicinities. The architecture of the city is diverse and can be achieved due to the historical background of the country and the change of powers throughout the centuries.
Begin the tour at the Grand Master’s Palace which is presently used by the Maltese Parliament. The palace itself has fine works of arts such as the cloth, shields and paintings that depicts the historical background of the island. Here the Manoel Theatre is a must-visit, one of the oldest working theatres in Europe, which tourists can attend a performance in.
Another place one cannot afford to miss is St. John’s Co-Cathedral. This Baroque building holds painting by Caravaggio called “The Beheading of St. John the Baptist” The cathedral itself is a work of art to see with beautiful interior, artwork and decorations.
To just sit back and take a breather, take a trip to the Upper Barrakka Gardens featuring a splendid view of the Grand Harbour. The gardens are one entertaining place to be when one wants to relax with a view of the city at evening.
3. Megalithic Temples of Malta
Some of the earliest structures still standing in the world are located in the Mediterranean island Malta world known as the Megalithic Temples. These structures as Hagar Qim and Mnajdra are so unique and mysterious that they attract a lot of people today. Some of these temple structures were constructed as early as 3600 – 2500 BC, and as such, are older even than such world wonders as Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids.
The temples are built of huge pieces of limestone: some of the stones are several tones in weight. The role of such structures is still a mystery though they are believed to have been used for conducts of religious practices. This thus depicts that the temples’ façade and orientation were a masterpiece and a virtue in the alignment with cosmic and natural features.
These site one can really feel the presence of distant past of Malta and at the same time, be astonished by the skills used by those ancient people into engineering. The surrounding area, the hilly seventies, give the necessary flavor, a feeling that one is moving back in time.
4. Mdina
Mdina or the “Citta’ Invittu,” is a fortified medieval city which served as the capital of Malta. Spending a few hours in it lets you feel that you are in a totally different world because the streets there are very narrow and twisting. The architecture of the city is in the medieval and Baroque, the majority of palace and church buildings are turning.
As for the history of Mdina it has deep historical roots and got influenced by the Roman, Arabic as well as the Norman civilization. Located on a hill it was easily defended and not least the city fortifications prove the importance of that place in history.
The show lovers of ‘Games of Thrones’ may associate the place with ‘King’s Landing’ as some scenes were shot there. Flaneur in its historical core characterized by beautiful streets and architecture of centuries turns the city into a magnet for tourists wishing to plunge into the atmosphere of Malta.
If one wants to understand Mdina’s history and traditions deeper, it will be useful to take a tour. Tourist guides can offer interesting histories and roles which the city played in Maltese history.
5.Kirk Air Ralgad : The Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption
Known for the largest dome ever built in the size of 80 meters the Church of Saint Mary of the Assumption is placed in the town of Mosta. The dome is 37 meters in diameter which isquite an acheivement architecturally. The church construction began in 1833, and was completed in 1860 The construction style of the church resembled that of the Pantheon in Rome.
It is also referred to as the Mosta Dome and forms part of the town’s identity. The architecture of neoclassic style of the building’s front and the stately interior of the building draw in tourists from across the globe. The church is saturated with legends, for example the famous ‘Mosta miracle”. During the Second World War, a bomb penetrated through the roof during the service, but did not detonate as one might expect and so the church remained undamaged.
It could be regarded as an opportunity to come to look at the church construction and the history associated with it. Thanks to its calm atmosphere and unique architectural solution the place is worth visiting in Malta.
6. Rabat
Rabat is another town that lies near Mdina and has a very long history as well as numerous cultural and heritage sights. It houses several significant landmarks like the catacombs of St Paul and church of St Agatha. These catacombs belong to the times of early Christianity and they bring quite interesting information about religious beliefs of the island inhabitants.
Two places of interest are; The Catacombs of St. Paul were apparently where St. Paul was living after the shipwreck in Malta. The halls have detailed carving and mural paintings that give people a glimpse of how artistic the society was at that time. On the other hand, St. Agatha’s Catacombs are famous for the frescoes in good state today, and it is proved that the place served as burials and worship areas.
Old Rabat is very picturesque and has many cultural attractions that give a good idea about the history of Malta. Old traditional houses and specialty shops are lining the narrow streets found in the town, giving a Maltese feel of a typical day.
7. Take an English Course
Malta is actually a very good place to learn English Which at first might not seem obvious. The extent of English in Malta is another factor; being an ex British colony up to 1964, English is one of the official languages of the country. The island has many language schools for learning the language for all levels and as a result, many language learners visit the island.
It is indeed a nice experience to learn English in Malta as one can study and at the same time enjoy a Mediterranean cruise. Easy going lifestyle, stunning scenery, and an ability to learn through cultural trips make it amazing to learn. It’s also equally useful in making friends and acquaintances from the various parts of the world hence a variety of cultures.
Regardless of whether you are going for an English course because you need it for work, for travel or just simply for self-enrichment Malta can be a great place to take the course. Due to its people friendliness, cultural prospect of the island is highly conducive to learning and researching.
8. Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is also a small fishing village offering entertainment by painting-up boats called luzzu in different colors. These fishing boats which are distinctly Maltese are painted with bright colours and especially have the eye on the bow to ward off evil. These boats are everywhere with the help of the harbours that surrounds the village; giving it the thrilling artistic touch.
Marsaxlokk is equally famous for its Sunday fish market at which one is able to buy fresh seafood and other delicacies. The market offers the visitors a chance to taste the Maltese food besides identifying with the local people’s way of living. The restaurants that line the water’s edge offer mouth-watering seafood meals thus, making the village a food haven.
Besides, tourist can still get a feel of the traditional Maltese way of life especially in the area of Marsaxlokk. Public areas of the village are really picturesque, lovely streets, and welcoming people cannot but catch your attention. Apart from the market, eating and scenic views, Marsaxlokk is a beautiful place that is worth visiting.
9. St. Peter’s Pool
St. Peter’s Pool is one of the coastal caves located south of Marsaxlokk which comprises of a natural pool, which is turquoise water. It is created from the rocks that are cut in the limestone cliffs and has an added advantage of a fine natural blend that is so essential when swimming and sunbathing. The sea water is clear and inversely cool therefore making the area appropriate for beach bathing and inning accordance with.
This pool is used by the local people and tourists and especially during summer when warm weather is experienced. It becomes an excellent place to relax from the hot weather and be able to enjoy the coastline of Malta. The rocks around give a lot of space for sunbathing as well as admiring the breathtaking views.
Anyway, you can approximate St. Peter’s Pool because it is situated relatively quasi this means that moves are acceptable. It allows one to spend some moment of relaxation and enjoy the warm sun by the shores of this sea.
10. Popeye Village
Sweethaven Village or Popeye Village, was built to be used as a film set for the 1980 musical Popeye, staring Robin Williams. Today, it has been produced into a joyful zone for recreation and family vacation. Some of the wooden houses painted in different bright colors and the inhabitants depicted in the village will make one feel like experiencing something that is from the Popeye comics.
Thus, the possibilities include boat trips, water bouncers, as well as theatrical performances tied to the sea. It also has a museum to support the movie location, where filming was done and prop used in the making of the movie is well displayed. People love this village, mainly families, because one can be entertained while recalling the childhood years.
Popeye Village if you want to have something out of the ordinary and enjoy the cartoonish aesthetics of it all in Malta. This place is playful and childlike and definitely enjoyed by children as well as the young at heart. Though I can’t say I am a big fan of the movie, the village itself looks picturesque and has a nice life-long atmosphere.
11. Blue Lagoon
The island of Comino strikes an island located in the middle of the Blue Grotto and has become very popular because of this place. As one of the most widely visited sites on the island, it is pointed for its crystal blue waters and beautiful white sandy beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and sun basking. This is because it is characterized by clear, shallow water making it suitable for families and of course water sport activities.
Staying true to its name, the waters are as blue as those of the tropical lagoons with clear waters teeming with marine life. This is a perfect destination for a cure and a way to appreciate the wonderful islands of Malta. Thus, during the high season, it can be very crowded, so it is better to visit this place in the morning or evening.
Again, one can make use of a ferry in order to access the Blue Lagoon or from Malte or Gozo. There are also different types of tours which are, for instance, boat tours and catamaran which is of a much higher class. Either if you are diving and exploring the marine life around or just sun bathing, a visit to the Blue Lagoon is a must.
12. Gozo
Gozo is the second largest island in the Maltese archipelagic and is generally quieter and more rural than Malta. Gozo is famous for nice views, picturesque villages and historical places and can be recommended to all those who got tired of crowded tourist places and want to apply to Malta and its countryside.
The Azure Window also forms part of the attractions that Gozo is famous for, it is a natural limestone arch that has collapsed and itself represented the rocky coast of the island. However, the tourism around it keeps on thriving as divers and boat tour lovers flock the area in large numbers even after the collapse of the arch in 2017. He shortened Inland Sea which is a small saltwater lagoon that is nearby and used by divers to dive through the tunnel.
Another historical place one should visit in Gozo is the Ggantija Temples which is listed as one of the World Heritage sites and, according to some data, is one of the oldest structures that has not been part of a structure complex. Independent evidence about the temple buildings goes back to approximately 3600 BC and provides evidence of structures which was uniquely architectural for the island.
The elegantly located village of Xlendi, more laid-back, is famous for the beautiful bay and restaurants by the sea. Great for sea-food, especially fresh sea-food and great scenic views of the seaside and beautiful coastal areas.
13. Sliema
Sliema is a popular commercial town situated along the northeastern coast of the island of Malta which is famous for shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Interestingly, this place attracts not only tourists but also the city’s residents since it combines diversified contemporary services and facilities with the historical affect. The coastline of Sliema has well maintained pathways for a pleasant walk beside the sea and there are magnificent views of Valletta and the Mediterranean sea.
The town also has ranges of shops that include the luxurious retail stores to the craft shops as well. Fashion lovers will find clothes of their taste while others will enjoy roaming around Sliema, finding gifts, and other general items with a touch of Malta. Malta also boasts many cafes and restaurants both national and international to meet the every growing taste buds.
Kindly note that if you are interested in water sports, Sliema hospita quite a number of water activities such as diving, snorkeling as well as boat cruises. The town’s location is central for the rest of the island, travelers can easily find transportation and ferries to other parts of the island.
14. Maltese Cuisine
Malta’s food is considered to be tasteful Mediterranean food with influence from all the different nations that has ever come into wholesaling with the country. The cuisine is defined by the seafood , vegetables and a large amount of green herbs used in the preparation of meals, and all products are locally sourced. Food in the traditional Maltese cuisine is filling and has rich dishes because farming is predominant in the country.
The Maltese cuisine could be described as a medley of local Mediterranean seafood, as well as rabbit dishes: the most popular out of all, without a doubt, is fenkata, prepared with wine, garlic and other spices. It is a traditional dish associated with Malta and traditionally consumed by families either on special occasions or when they are getting together. One of the most famous dishes are pastizzi, small pies made from the dough or a shortcrust pastry which can be filled with ricotta or mushy peas. The following types of local snacks are tasty and can be bought from the bakeries and cafes within the island.
The delicious traditional Malta dish not to be missed for lovers of seafood is a lampuki pie. Lampuki pie that is prepared with spinach, olives, and capers is delicious and filled with a mouth watering combination of fish. Another typical cuisine that can be prepared is timpana- a pasta which is baked and con-tains spiced meat, cheese, and tomatoes.
Malta deserves her sweet dishes; therefore, anyone who visits Malta should taste some of the Maltese desserts. Among the sweets which people usually eat, especially in the time of some celebrations, there are Imqaret which is a pastries fried and Isi filled with dates. There is also an option of kannoli which has pastry shells and is filled with sweet ricotta cheese.
15.Best beaches in Malta.
Malta also boasts of beach which comes in different types ranging from sandy beaches to rocky beaches. Though the island may not boast about having one of the longest stretch of sandlit coastlines in Europe, it must easily be one of the most beautiful. Malta offers a plethora of beaches all year round to suit everyone’s preference; for the laid back person or the energetic one.
Golden Bay is one of the tourist attractions on the island with a special feature of a golden sand and crystal clear waters. Being a sea side, it is perfect for swimming, sun bathing and water activities. Hiring of sun beds, calss of drinks and refreshments, and provision of toilet amenities are also available at the beach to make it easier for families.
For a somewhat more isolation, it is possible to go to another unique beach called Ghajn Tuffieha Bay which is in fact situated just a 10-minute walk from Golden Bay. This beach is adjacent natural cliffs and is less crowded than those I have previously mentioned. To get down there are s few stairs that must be tackled but there is no noise or crowd hence breathtaking views.
Ghadira Bay is another beautiful beach that embraces the town of Mellieha. It is a sandy beach which is shallow and safe for swimming for that it would be suitable for families with young children. It is also a good area for dining and accommodation hence one can spend most of their day here.
Paradise Bay near the ferry to Gozo is one more beach which is small but stunning. Because of the clear blue waters and the rocks it is ideal for snorkeling and diving, thus a fantasy for tourists.
Conclusion
The island country of Malta has much to see, to explore, and to feel due to the diverse history, beautiful nature, and dynamic culture. There are ruins that date back to the Byzantine empire and the gothic, historical sites, sandy beaches for sun lovers and even exquisite dining in Italy. Malta is awash with surprises and exciting discoveries, whether one is on a one week visit or a long-term tour.