Malta

Malta is a beautiful island located south of Sicily, at the heart of the Mediterranean sea. Standing at this melting pot of civilizations, the island has a rich history - one of battle, conquest and courage.

People first inhabited the island, which is the largest one of the Maltese Archipelago, 7000 years ago, and since then we have lived on the island with much zest and passion. Maltese architecture attests to this rich history, boasting churches, chapels and historical buildings that are unique in the world. If you are interested in ancient history, there are some Neolithic temples, as well as an underground hypogeum that is unique in the world and a part of UNESCO World Heritage.

However, the beauty and charm of Malta is not only present in its historical sites - one may walk along the promenade or indeed visit Paceville, the nightlife area, and enjoy 21st Century life within this extraordinary context of past, present and future.

Maltese beaches, specifically its famous sandy beaches, are a favorite attraction for tourists and locals alike, who, every year, visit these areas for relaxation and tanning purposes (of course, all within reason and regard to skin health)...

My favorite place in Malta must be Mdina, the ancient city built by the Arabs who inhabited Malta for hundreds of years. This city, called the Silent City, hosts an array of beautiful buildings, as well as the Cathedral and high bastions from which you may look out all the way to the sea even though it is in the center of the island. If you've watched the movie A Previous Engagement you will most certainly know what I'm talking about...

Yet Malta is not only a place for short-term visitors. The friendliness of its people as well as its safety has put it on the list of places where many come to retire, and others come to have a familial 'base' when they travel extensively.

Many students and professionals visit Malta either to study at the University of Malta or to improve their English language skills by taking courses at one of the many English-language schools here.

Where is Malta?
It is in the Middle of the Mediterranean Sea, just south of Sicily...

How many inhabitants does the island have?
Just over 400,000 inhabitants...

Is Malta an island?
Malta is an Archipelago made up of 7 islands - Malta (the largest island), Gozo (the second largest), Comino (the smallest inhabited island), and five small uninhabited islands - St. Paul's Islands, Filfla, Filflett, and Kemmunett.

What is there to do in Malta?
There is plenty to do - you can visit some of the most well-known places, such as Valletta, Mdina and Mosta, enjoy the high life in Sliema or St. Julians, go to the summer destinations of Qawra or Bugibba, visit historic sites such as the Neolithic Temples and Hypogeum, visit the many churches including Cathedral and Co-Cathedral which includes famous Caravaggio paintings, visit some museums such as the Natural History Museum and Archaeology Museum, go to one of the many beaches, study English, practice your English around the island, study at our university, and many many more things. In summer there is a 'festa' (traditional village/town feast) almost every week, often with exuberant firework displays...

What is the climate like in Malta?
The weather is hot in summer, and somewhat cold in winder (but hardly ever colder than 7 degrees Celsius.

Is Malta a member state of the European Union?
Yes, Malta joined the EU in 2004 along with another 9 countries - Slovenia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Hungary.

What is the Maltese currency?
Malta has had the Euro since the beginning of 2007.

What is the main religion practiced in Malta?
The vast majority of people in Malta are Roman Catholic.

How can I get to Malta?
There are many ways to get to get to Malta - you may fly into Malta International Airport, or you may take a Ferry from a variety of other Mediterranean ports.

How would I get round the island?
You may go around by car - always remembering that we drive on the left hand side of the road. However, you may also opt to use the public transportation service - buses.