Population of Malta
518,536 inhabitants (2021).
Official Language
The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English.
Languages Spoken
Maltese and English are the predominant languages, with 95.4% of the population speaking Maltese as their mother tongue. Maltese, a Semitic language written in the Latin script, has evolved over the centuries to incorporate words from English, Italian and French. Italian and English are also widely spoken, reflecting the cultural influences present on the Maltese islands. Despite this linguistic diversity, Malta has retained a unique identity. Historically, Maltese was primarily a spoken language, until the latter half of the 19th century when its grammatical rules were formalised in writing.
People and Heritage
Many Maltese people are descendants of colonists from Sicily and Calabria; these populations contributed to the repopulation of the Maltese islands at the beginning of the second millennium. The genetic makeup is further shaped by influences from the eastern Mediterranean and the Maghreb. Language serves as a foundation of identity, while the British community remains one of the largest foreign communities in Malta.
Religious Affiliations
Roman Catholicism is the state religion of Malta, with a staggering 98% of the population identifying as Catholic. The majority follow the Roman rite, with a Byzantine-rite minority, making Malta one of the most Catholic countries globally.
National Holidays
Malta celebrates its independence from the UK on 21st September.
Holiday Calendar
January 1: New Year's Day.
February 10: Feast of the Shipwreck of Saint Paul.
March 19: Feast of Saint Joseph.
March 31: Freedom Day (1979: departure of the last British soldiers).
March-April: Holy Week.
May 1: Labor Day.
June 7: Anniversary of the Insurrection of June 7, 1919 (against the British).
June 29: Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
August 15: Feast of the Assumption.
September 8: Victory Day (of the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem over the Ottomans - 1565).
September 21: National Day.
December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
December 13: Republic Day (1974).
December 25: Christmas Day.
History
An enchanting archipelago situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea between Italy and Libya, Malta boasts a rich history influenced by its neighboring countries (including Sicily, Tunisia and North Libya). Inhabited since 5900 BC, its central Mediterranean location served as a strategic naval base, attracting the attention of various powers throughout the ages.
The Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Aragonese, Knights of St. John, French and British have all left their mark on this small, yet remarkable, country. With just 518,536 inhabitants spread across 122 square miles, Malta is the world's tenth smallest country.
British Influence and Independence
Malta became a British colony in 1813, playing a pivotal role as a naval base and the headquarters for the British Mediterranean Fleet. During World War II, it faced a significant siege by the Axis powers but remained resilient. In 1964, the Malta Independence Act granted the Maltese people sovereignty, establishing the State of Malta, with Queen Elizabeth II as its monarch. The country later transitioned to a republic in 1974 and joined the Commonwealth of Nations, the United Nations, the European Union in 2004 and the Eurozone monetary union in 2008.
Religious Landscape
Malta's religious landscape has evolved, initially embracing early Christianity, before transitioning to a predominantly Muslim country during Arab rule, and finally returning to Catholicism after the Norman invasion in 1091. Today, Catholicism is the state religion, but Malta ensures freedom of conscience and religious worship.
Economy
Since the Maltese economy is heavily reliant on tourism, the country consistently promotes itself as a must-visit Mediterranean destination. Blessed with a warmer climate than much of Europe, Malta also boasts UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, Valletta and ancient megalithic temples. The Maltese beaches provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation, making it an irresistible destination for all types of travellers.
Politics
Malta operates as a parliamentary republic, resembling the Westminster system of the UK. Boasting the second-highest voter turnout globally (the highest among nations without mandatory voting), the unicameral Parliament comprises the President of Malta and the House of Representatives. The President's role is largely ceremonial, appointed for a five-year term by a resolution of the House of Representatives, determined by a simple majority. The 65 members of the House of Representatives are elected for five-year terms across 13 electoral divisions. As a republic, Malta's head of state is the President of the Republic.
Etiquette
In Malta, tipping is discretionary but appreciated. Guides typically receive around four to five euros per person per day, while tips for service personnel vary but are often aligned with local economic indicators, like the cost of a beer or tea. Standard tipping for waiters or taxi drivers is around 10 to 15%. Maltese locals adhere to a formal and modest dress code, removing hats when entering churches, ensuring shoulders are covered and avoiding open-toe shoes in sacred places. The Maltese embrace a relaxed approach to timekeeping, referred to as 'island time'. Overall, Malta's atmosphere is welcoming to tourists and visitors are encourage to enjoy the island's festivities.
Shopping
Bringing home a piece of Malta is easy with distinctive souvenirs like the Luzzu (a colorful traditional fishing boat), dolphin-shaped door knockers and religious porcelain or enamel figurines. The archipelago's goldsmiths are renowned for their exquisite filigrees, while Gozo offers lace treasures in silk, cotton or crochet, as well as blown glass creations. Culinary delights include honey, nougat, sheep cheeses, olive oils and liqueurs; a delightful variety, sure to satisfy every palate.
Food
Malta's cuisine features a rich tapestry of flavours, with influences from its neighboring countries. Dishes are both fresh and flavourful, drawing inspiration from Italy's bountiful fish supply, as well as Arab bread and wine traditions. Sample authentic Maltese offerings such as fenkata, the national dish featuring braised rabbit with potatoes, nougat and peanuts on the side. Try aljotta, a fish soup, or savour the warmth of Kawlata, a traditional vegetable soup made of cabbage and pork. North African flavours appear in dishes with broad beans, garlic and parsley, while the surrounding seas provide mahi-mahi, often cooked in a spicy tomato sauce. Delight in octopus stew, tuna rolls and the ever-popular pastizzi, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta or peas. Gozo's cuisine features sheep cheese dishes and ftira ghawdxija, a stuffed bread brimming with potatoes, tomatoes, olives and anchovies, for those seeking a quick and satisfying treat.
Drink
While the tap water is technically safe to drink, you may wish to stick with bottled mineral water to be on the safe side. Get involved in the local beverage scene with Kinnie, the Maltese take on Coca-Cola, or opt for local beers like Cisk and Hopleaf. In the past, the British attempted to replace Malta's grape vines with cotton plants, however this proved unsuccessful and today, grapes like ghirgentina and gellewza grow on the archipelago. These produce delightful white wines, along with excellent reds and rosés through traditional vinification, which results in supple, low-concentration wines. Coffee is often enjoyed in its purest form, although cinnamon and orange blossom are sometimes added as a delightful twist.
