Malta may be a tiny archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, but it is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, Malta has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why Malta is a good place to visit.
Historical significance of Malta
First and foremost, one cannot overlook Malta’s historical significance. The islands have a long and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. Malta is home to some of the world’s oldest standing structures, including the temples of Ggantija, which are older than the Pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge. These prehistoric temples offer a glimpse into an ancient civilization that thrived on the islands.
Additionally, Malta has been ruled by numerous civilizations throughout its history, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Knights of St. John, and the British. Each of these civilizations has left its mark on the islands, resulting in a rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Valletta
One of Malta’s most iconic and impressive attractions is the fortified city of Valletta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, Valletta is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with its narrow winding streets, beautiful palaces, and majestic churches.
Exploring the city feels like stepping back in time, and visitors can immerse themselves in the history and grandeur of this exceptional city.
Mdina
Another must-visit site in Malta is the ancient city of Mdina, also known as the Silent City. Perched on a hilltop, Mdina is a fortified medieval town with narrow medieval streets, beautiful palaces, and stunning views over the surrounding countryside. Walking through its silent streets feels like stepping onto the set of a historical movie.
Gozo
Gozo is the second-largest island in the Maltese archipelago. Gozo has a rich history and is believed to be the legendary Calypso’s Isle from Homer’s Odyssey. It has been inhabited since Neolithic times, and numerous archaeological sites can be found across the island, including Ggantija, one of the oldest freestanding stone structures in the world.
Natural Beauty
Beyond its historical charm, Malta offers a wealth of natural beauty. The archipelago is blessed with crystal-clear waters, picturesque beaches, and stunning coastal cliffs.
For beach lovers, the islands offer a diverse range of options. From the popular sandy beaches of Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay to secluded rocky coves like St. Peter’s Pool and Ghar Lapsi, there is a beach to suit every taste. Moreover, Malta’s small size means that no beach is too far away, allowing visitors to explore several in just one trip.
In addition to the coastline, Malta’s landscape boasts impressive natural formations. The Azure Window, a natural limestone arch that rose out of the sea on the island of Gozo, was once a popular attraction. Although the Azure Window collapsed in 2017, the nearby Blue Hole and Inland Sea are still incredible spots for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Inland, Malta’s countryside is dotted with rural villages, vineyards, and ancient cart tracks. Exploring these rural areas allows visitors to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Malta and discover its hidden gems.
Cultural Scene
Beyond the historical and natural attractions, Malta offers a vibrant and thriving cultural scene. The islands host various cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and historical reenactments. The capital city of Valletta was also designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2018, further reinforcing Malta’s commitment to nurturing its arts and cultural scene. Visitors can enjoy world-class performances, explore contemporary art galleries, and sample delicious local cuisine that has been influenced by various cultures.
Cuisine
Maltese cuisine is a fusion of Mediterranean and North African flavors, resulting in a unique culinary experience. Local dishes such as rabbit stew, pastizzi (pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas), and fenkata (a traditional Maltese rabbit feast) are must-tries for food enthusiasts.
Malta also boasts excellent seafood, with fresh catches always available due to its proximity to the sea. To complement the meals, visitors can indulge in local Maltese wines, which have been gaining recognition and awards on an international level.
People
One of Malta’s greatest assets is its people. Maltese hospitality is known to be warm and welcoming, making visitors feel instantly at home. English is widely spoken, which makes communication easy for international travelers.
Maltese people are proud of their country and enjoy sharing their love for their homeland with visitors. Whether it’s providing recommendations for the best local spots or sharing intriguing historical anecdotes, the Maltese are always happy to engage and help visitors make the most of their trip.
Accessibility
In terms of accessibility, Malta is well-connected to major European cities, making it an easy destination to reach. The islands have an international airport that receives flights from various European destinations.
Malta has also several ports; it’s very easy to reach the island via ferry or cruise ship. Additionally, there are ferry services available from Sicily and other Mediterranean destinations, providing an alternative way to reach Malta.
Furthermore, traveling within Malta is convenient, as the islands are relatively small. Public transportation is efficient, and renting a car is also an option for those who want to explore at their own pace.
Climate
Another advantage of Malta is its excellent climate, which attracts tourists throughout the year. With more than 300 days of sunshine annually, dry hot summers and short mild winters, make Malta an attractive destination for tourists seeking warm weather year-round.
The climate of Malta can be described as Mediterranean.
During the summer months, from June to September, temperatures in Malta commonly reach between 30-35 degrees Celsius (86-95 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, with high levels of humidity. The island receives very little rainfall during this period, and clear blue skies are a common sight.
Winter in Malta, from December to February, is relatively mild compared to other European countries. Daytime temperatures generally range from 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional rainfall and more clouds. Frost and snow are extremely rare occurrences on the island.
Spring and autumn in Malta is a transitional period, with temperatures gradually warming up in the spring months (March to May) and cooling down in the autumn months (October to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, with fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures ranging from 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit).
As with any destination, it is important to stay hydrated and protect oneself from the strong sun rays, especially during the summer months. The climate of Malta offers an inviting atmosphere for travelers seeking warmth and sunshine all year round, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Malta is undeniably a fantastic place to visit. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, the archipelago offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Whether one is interested in history, culture, nature, or simply seeking a relaxing beach holiday, Malta is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its accessibility, excellent weather, and proximity to other European destinations also make it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday. So, if you haven’t already, add Malta to your must-visit list.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Gian and Jack are traveling the world for over 10 years and they WANT to share their tips with other. The blog TravelFun365.com is created to inspire people to travel more discovering all the best places around the world.
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