About Malta
Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean, one of the world's smallest and most densely populated countries. Its strategic location has made it a prize for great powers throughout history, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and the British. Most famously, it was the stronghold of the Knights of St. John (Knights Hospitaller) for over 250 years, who built incredible fortifications and cities that remain largely intact today.
The capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of the Baroque, described as "a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen." The island is an open-air museum, home to the megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, which predate the Egyptian pyramids. The honey-colored limestone architecture gives the towns a warm, golden glow against the deep blue sea.
Despite its size, Malta boasts a vibrant culture with year-round village religious festivals (festa) featuring fireworks and brass bands. The nearby islands of Gozo and Comino (home to the Blue Lagoon) offer more rural and tranquil escapes. With English as an official language and a climate of endless sunshine, Malta remains a favorite European cultural destination.