Malta and Gozo are the two biggest islands of the Maltese archipelago. Malta is a bigger island, which has a lot to offer its visitors in terms of social and cultural events, sightseeing, and nightlife. Gozo, a more rural island, too, has a lot to offer – with its beautiful beaches, nature, and a variety of historical sights, it is certainly worth a visit!
History
Malta, located in the very heart of the Mediterranean, has been attracting people from all over the world for over 7000 years. All of them, friendly visitors, guests, invaders, and conquerors, have left us with a unique historical, cultural, and linguistic legacy. The long relationship between the Islanders and the various nationalities who occupied Malta over the centuries has created a combination of styles and traditions, giving the islands a fascinating eclectic culture.
Important dates:
- 1000 BC – The colonization of the Maltese Islands by the Phoenicians begins
- 60 AD – St. Paul is shipwrecked on the Maltese coast
- 1565 – Malta defeats the Ottoman army bringing to an end the Great Siege of Malta
- 1914 – Malta becomes one of the British colonies
- 1964 – Malta gains independence from Britain
- 1974 – Malta is proclaimed a republic
- 1979 – The last British ship departs from Malta
- 2004 – Malta joins the EU
- 2008 – The euro becomes the official currency of Malta
Culture
The culture of Malta reflects various societies that have come into contact with the Maltese Islands throughout the centuries, including neighbouring Mediterranean cultures, and the cultures of the nations that ruled Malta for long periods of time until gained its independence in 1964. Go to museums, visit a variety of historical sites, go to a concert, watch an open air theatre performance, or join a workshop to learn one of the local crafts. You will be amazed at the amount of ways in which you can experience the Maltese culture.
Eating Out and Nightlife
A great variety of restaurants are available for all tastes and budgets from gourmet dining to fast food. There are several places that specialise in typical Maltese food, such as, for instance, Malta’s national dish: rabbit cooked with garlic, wine and tomatoes. You can also find lots of Italian, Chinese and Indian cafes and restaurants.
Those who prefer going out in the evening will not be disappointment – with its main leisure and entertainment areas in St Julian’s and Sliema, Malta has a thriving nightlife, with weekly concerts, festivals, bars and nightclubs to suit a variety of tastes, age groups, and budgets.
Things to do and places to go…
As you may have already realised, Malta has a lot to offer. Our school offers you lots of trips and activities to help you discover the beauty of the Maltese islands and practice English at the same time. Learn more about our activities.