Malta, officially the Republic of Malta, consists of the main island Malta and the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino. The country covers an area of 316 km²; compared, it is about twice the size of Washington, DC, and would fit into Luxembourg eight times.  Malta would fit over two thousand times in France!

Malta has a population of 515,000 people (in 2020). The island nation is in the Top10 of the most densely populated countries in the world. The capital city is Valletta on the island of Malta. Spoken languages are mainly Maltese and English, yet many also speak Italian and other languages.

The Maltese Islands are arguably one of the most popular safe holiday destinations in the Mediterranean. Renowned for their stunning scenery and rich past, the Islands have plenty to offer visitors keen to explore them.

Valletta, Malta’s Baroque capital city, is particularly popular with those interested in history. Intricately designed and subsequently built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, it was one of the most modern cities of its time. Today it is a bustling commercial centre, with plenty of shops, cafes and top international restaurants.

One of Malta’s most attractive aspects remains its effortless ability to blend the past with the present, and you can expect to experience a delightful mix of island traditions and cosmopolitan activities while exploring it.

Meanwhile, if you prefer to make the most of the sun and sea, there are beaches dotted all over. Mellieha, in the north, as well as the nearby islands of Gozo and Comino, make for fabulous hideaways from the busier parts of Malta, and each offers beautiful countryside retreats to explore too.

 

Malta may only be a small nation, but if you look carefully you will note that Malta is one of the most interesting countries in the world.  There’s a lot more to discover about Malta, but the following facts will give you a good start and make you ask for more!

 

Interesting facts about Malta:

 

Malta is an island archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea and is located in Southern Europe. It is surrounded by Italy to its north and Libya to its south. The capital of Malta is Valletta, which is the smallest capital city in the European Union.

 

Nationality:     Maltese.
Population:     515,000 (end of 2019).

Capital:            Valletta

Airport:            Malta International Airport – Luqa

Port:                The Grand Harbour – Valletta is the main port for passengers and cruise liners.
Religion:          Roman Catholic, over 90%.

Churches:        365 churches dotted over Malta and Gozo
Language:        Maltese and English (official).
Literacy:          93%.

Currency:        Euro

Malta joined the European Union on the 1^st of May 2004.

Electricity:       230 Volts, 50Hz. Plug type G (3-pin plugs, UK).

Tourists:          Figures show over 2 million tourists visited Malta during 2019.

Driving:           Malta is one of the few countries where cars drive on the left-hand side.

Islands:            There are 3 islands, the main island is Malta.  Gozo is smaller than Malta and then there is a smaller island Comino.

Gozo:               This beautiful island with around 35000 inhabitants.  It is the quieter island accessible by ferry from Cirkewwa or fast ferry from Valletta.

Comino:           This small island has 2 inhabitants.  It is the home of the Blue Lagoon which is visited by thousands yearly.  Accessible by boats from various points around Malta and Gozo.

People:            The Maltese are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

Cuisine:           Apart from the local traditional cuisine, different international food items can be found on menus.  International fast food chains such as McDonalds, Pizza Hut and others can also be found.  Street food is popular and one may find the famous Maltese Pastizzi all over the islands.  Michelin Star Restaurants can also be found on the Islands.  You would be spoilt for choice!