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{{Short description|Island country in Southern Europe}} <!-- Should be 40 characters (including spaces) or fewer see ] -->
{{about|the country}}
{{About|the country}}
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{{pp-move}}
{{EngvarB|date=August 2014}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2022}}
{{Use British English|date=January 2025}}

{{Infobox country {{Infobox country
| conventional_long_name = Republic of Malta
|Continent = Europe
| common_name = Malta
|conventional_long_name = Republic of Malta
|native_name = {{native name|mt|Repubblika ta' Malta}} | native_name = {{native name|mt|Repubblika ta' Malta}}
|common_name = Malta | image_flag = Flag of Malta.svg
|image_flag = Flag of Malta.svg | image_coat = Coat of arms of Malta.svg
| coa_size = 90
|image_coat = Coat of arms of Malta.svg
| national_motto = {{native phrase|la|Virtute et constantia}}<br />"Strength and persistence"
|image_map = EU-Malta.svg
| national_anthem = {{native name|mt|]}}<br />"The Maltese Hymn"{{parabr}}{{center|]}}
|map_caption = {{map caption |location_color=dark green |region=Europe |region_color=dark grey |subregion=the ] |subregion_color=green |legend=EU-Malta.svg}}
| image_map = EU-Malta.svg
|national_anthem = {{lang|mt|'']''}}<br/>{{small|''The Maltese Hymn''}} ]
| map_caption = {{map caption |location_color=green circle |region=Europe|region_color=dark grey |subregion=the ] |subregion_color=light green |legend=EU-Malta.svg}}
|official_languages = ], ]
| capital = ]
|languages_type = ''']'''
| largest_settlement = ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gov.mt/en/Government/DOI/Government%20Gazette/PA%20GN/Documents/2019/Government%20Gazette%20-%203rd%20September.pdf|title=Gazzetta tal-Gvern ta' Malta|date=3 September 2019|access-date=22 January 2021|language=MT|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919130034/https://www.gov.mt/en/Government/DOI/Government%20Gazette/PA%20GN/Documents/2019/Government%20Gazette%20-%203rd%20September.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|languages = Maltese
| largest_settlement_type = ]
|languages_sub = yes
| coordinates = {{Coord|35|54|N|14|31|E|type:city|display=inline,title}}
|demonym = ]
| official_languages = {{hlist|]|]<ref>{{cite news |title=Language - VisitMalta |url=https://www.visitmalta.com/en/a/language/ |access-date=January 19, 2024 |publisher=VisitMalta |archive-date=1 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001013623/https://www.visitmalta.com/en/a/language/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}}
|ethnic_groups = {{unbulleted list |95.3% ] |1.6% British |3.1% others}}
| languages_type = Other languages
|ethnic_groups_year = 2007<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.populstat.info/Europe/maltag.htm |title=Malta: General data of the country |publisher=Populstat.info |accessdate=14 November 2010}}</ref>
| languages = ]<ref>{{Cite news |title=Maltese sign language to be recognised as an official language of Malta |work=The Malta Independent |url=http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2016-03-17/local-news/Maltese-sign-language-to-be-recognised-as-an-official-language-of-Malta-6736155052 |access-date=11 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612141941/http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2016-03-17/local-news/Maltese-sign-language-to-be-recognised-as-an-official-language-of-Malta-6736155052 |archive-date=12 June 2018}}</ref><br />]
|capital = ]
| ethnic_groups = {{unbulleted list|89.1% ]{{efn|2021 census. Chapter 4: Racial origin|a}}|5.2% ]|1.7% ]|1.5% ]|1.3% ] / ]|1.2% More than one origin}}
|largest_city = ]
| ethnic_groups_year = 2021<ref>{{Cite web |title=Census of Population and Housing 2021: Final Report: Population, migration and other social characteristics (Volume 1) |url=https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/ |date=16 February 2023 |access-date=4 February 2024 |website=nso.gov.mt |archive-date=4 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204200023/https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|latd=35 |latm=53 |lats=42 |latNS=N |longd=14 |longm=30 |longs=36 |longEW=E
| demonym = ]
|government_type = {{nowrap|]}}
| government_type = ]
|leader_title1 = ]
| religion = {{unbulleted list |
|leader_name1 = ]
{{Tree list}}
|leader_title2 = ]
* 88.5% ]
|leader_name2 = ]
** 82.6% ] (])
|legislature = {{nowrap|]}}
** 5.9% other ]
|area_rank = 207th <!--rank based on sovereign states only-->
{{Tree list/end}}
|area_magnitude = 1_E8
|5.1% ]|3.9% ]|1.4% ]|1.1% other}}
|area_km2 = 316
| religion_ref = <ref name="2021 census-1">{{Cite web|url=https://nso.gov.mt/en/nso/Media/Salient-Points-of-Publications/Documents/2023/Census%20of%20Population%202021%20volume1-final.pdf|title=Census of Population and Housing 2021 Final report: Religious Affiliation, pages 159-168|website=nso.gov.mt|language=en|archive-date=19 February 2023|access-date=22 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230219094017/https://nso.gov.mt/en/nso/Media/Salient-Points-of-Publications/Documents/2023/Census%20of%20Population%202021%20volume1-final.pdf}}</ref><ref name="Census statistics">{{Cite web|url=https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/90-caucasian-83-roman-catholic-malta-census-statistics-released.1014045|title=90% Caucasian, 83% Roman Catholic: Malta census statistics released|website=Times of Malta|date=16 February 2023|language=en|access-date=22 February 2023|archive-date=22 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230222220713/https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/90-caucasian-83-roman-catholic-malta-census-statistics-released.1014045|url-status=live}}</ref>
|area_sq_mi = 122 <!--Do not remove per ]-->
| religion_year = 2021
|percent_water = 0.001
| leader_title1 = ]
|population_estimate_year = 2013
| leader_name1 = ]
|population_estimate = {{nowrap|{{increase}} 446,547<ref name="Estimated">{{cite web|title=Estimated Population by Locality - 31st March, 2013|url=http://www.lc.gov.mt/mediacenter/PDFs/1_Population%2031-3-13.pdf|publisher=Malta Government Gazette no. 19094|accessdate=27 September 2014}}</ref>}}
| leader_title2 = ]
|population_estimate_rank = 171st <!--rank based on sovereign states only-->
| leader_name2 = ]
|population_census = 416,055<ref name="nso.gov.mt"></ref>
| legislature = {{nowrap|]}}
|population_census_year = 2011
| sovereignty_type = Independence
|population_density_km2 = 1,562<ref name="nso.gov.mt"/>
| sovereignty_note = from the ]
|population_density_sq_mi = 4,077 <!--Do not remove per ]-->
| established_event1 = ]
|population_density_rank = 7th <!--rank based on sovereign states only-->
| established_date1 = 21 September 1964
|GDP_PPP_year = 2013
| established_event2 = Republic
|GDP_PPP = $12.990&nbsp;billion<ref name=imf2>{{cite web |url=http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2014/02/weodata/weorept.aspx?sy=2012&ey=2019&scsm=1&ssd=1&sort=country&ds=.&br=1&c=181&s=NGDPD%2CNGDPDPC%2CPPPGDP%2CPPPPC&grp=0&a=&pr.x=41&pr.y=7 |title=Malta |publisher=International Monetary Fund |accessdate=4 January 2015}}</ref>
| established_date2 = 13 December 1974
|GDP_PPP_rank =
| area_km2 = 316<ref name="Zammit">{{Cite journal |last=Zammit |first=Andre |year=1986 |title=Valletta and the system of human settlements in the Maltese Islands |journal=Ekistics |volume=53 |issue=316/317 |pages=89–95 |jstor=43620704}}</ref>
|GDP_PPP_per_capita = $30,566<ref name=imf2/>
| area_rank = 187th <!-- Should match ] -->
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank =
| area_sq_mi = 122 <!--Do not remove per ]-->
|GDP_nominal_year = 2013
| percent_water = 0.001
|GDP_nominal = $9.646&nbsp;billion<ref name=imf2/>
| population_estimate =
|GDP_nominal_rank =
| population_census = {{nowrap|542,051<ref name="NSO">{{Cite web |title=Population and migration: 2012-2022(including intercensal revisions)|url=https://nso.gov.mt/intercensal-population-revisions-2012-2021/ |date=July 2022 |access-date=8 July 2024 |website=nso.gov.mt}}</ref>}}
|GDP_nominal_per_capita = $22,892<ref name=imf2/>
| population_estimate_year =
|GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank =
| population_estimate_rank = 167th <!--rank based on sovereign states only-->
|Gini_year = 2011
| population_census_year = 2021
|Gini_change = <!--increase/decrease/steady-->
| population_density_km2 = 1,649
|Gini = 27.4 <!--number only-->
| population_density_sq_mi = 4,270 <!--Do not remove per ]-->
|Gini_ref =<ref name=eurogini>{{cite web|title=Gini coefficient of equivalised disposable income (source: SILC)|url=http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_di12|publisher=Eurostat Data Explorer|accessdate=13 August 2013}}</ref>
| population_density_rank = 8th
|Gini_rank =
| GDP_PPP = {{increase}} $36.870 billion<ref name="IMFWEO.MT">{{cite web |url=https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/WEO/weo-database/2024/April/weo-report?c=181,&s=NGDPD,PPPGDP,NGDPDPC,PPPPC,&sy=2023&ey=2025&ssm=0&scsm=1&scc=0&ssd=1&ssc=0&sic=0&sort=country&ds=.&br=1 |title=Report for Selected Countries and Subjects: April 2024 (Malta)|publisher=]|website=imf.org}}</ref>
|HDI_year = 2013<!-- Please use the year to which the data refers, not the publication year-->
| GDP_PPP_year = 2024
|HDI_change = steady<!--increase/decrease/steady-->
| GDP_PPP_rank = 140th
|HDI = 0.829 <!--number only, between 0 and 1-->
| GDP_PPP_per_capita = {{increase}} $67,682<ref name="IMFWEO.MT" />
|HDI_ref = <ref name="HDI">{{cite web |url=http://hdr.undp.org/sites/default/files/hdr14-summary-en.pdf |title=2014 Human Development Report Summary |year=2014 |accessdate=27 July 2014 |publisher=United Nations Development Programme | pages=21–25}}</ref>
| GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 20th
|HDI_rank = 39th
| GDP_nominal = {{increase}} $22.737 billion<ref name="IMFWEO.MT" />
|sovereignty_type = Independence
| GDP_nominal_year = 2024
|established_event1 = from the United Kingdom
| GDP_nominal_rank = 118th
|established_date1 = 21 September 1964
| GDP_nominal_per_capita = {{increase}} $41,738<ref name="IMFWEO.MT" />
|established_event2 = Republic
| GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank = 25th
|established_date2 = 13 December 1974
| Gini = 31.4 <!--number only-->
|currency = Euro (])<sup>b</sup>
| Gini_year = 2020
|currency_code = EUR
| Gini_change = increase <!--increase/decrease/steady-->
|country_code = MLT
| Gini_ref = <ref name="eurogini">{{Cite web |title=Gini coefficient of equivalised disposable income – EU-SILC survey|url=https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SI.POV.GINI?locations=MT}}</ref>
|time_zone = ]
| HDI = 0.915 <!--number only, between 0 and 1-->
|utc_offset = +1
| HDI_year = 2022<!-- Please use the year to which the data refers, not the publication year-->
|time_zone_DST = ]
| HDI_change = increase<!--increase/decrease/steady-->
|utc_offset_DST = +2
| HDI_ref = <ref name="UNHDR">{{cite web|url=https://hdr.undp.org/system/files/documents/global-report-document/hdr2023-24reporten.pdf|title=Human Development Report 2023/24|language=en|publisher=]|date=13 March 2024|access-date=13 March 2024|archive-date=13 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240313164319/https://hdr.undp.org/system/files/documents/global-report-document/hdr2023-24reporten.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|date_format = dd/mm/yyyy (])
| HDI_rank = 25th
|drives_on = ]
| currency = ] (])
|calling_code = ]
| currency_code = EUR
|religion = ]
| time_zone = Central European Time
|patron_saints = ], ] and ]<ref name=Frommer>{{cite book|last=Lesley|first=Anne Rose|title=Frommer's Malta and Gozo Day by Day|date=15 April 2009|publisher=John Wiley & Sons|isbn=0470746106|page=139|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Gr3g2SMGPZgC}}</ref>
| utc_offset = +1
|percent_religion = 98<!--CIA World Factbook, August 2006. See external links.-->
| utc_offset_DST = +2
|national_bird = ]
| time_zone_DST = Central European Summer Time
|national_plant = ]
| drives_on = left
|national_tree = ]
| calling_code = ]
|national_poet = ]
| patron_saints = ], ], and ]<ref name="Frommer">{{Cite book |last=Lesley |first=Anne Rose |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Gr3g2SMGPZgC |title=Frommer's Malta and Gozo Day by Day |date=15 April 2009 |publisher=John Wiley & Sons |isbn=978-0-470-74610-3 |page=139 |access-date=1 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150904001711/https://books.google.com/books?id=Gr3g2SMGPZgC |archive-date=4 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|cctld = ]&nbsp;<sup>c</sup>
| cctld = ]{{ref label|b|b}}
|website = www.gov.mt
| footnote_a = {{note|a|}} 2021 Malta census Chapter 4: Racial Origin according to the most recent national census. Meanwhile 77.8% of the population were Maltese citizens or nationals.<ref name="Census2021_1_116">{{Cite web|title=Census of Population and Housing 2021 - Volume 1 - Final Report|url=https://nso.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/Census-of-Population-2021-volume1-final.pdf|year=2023|access-date=26 June 2023|website=nso.gov.mt|page=116|archive-date=26 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626120134/https://nso.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/Census-of-Population-2021-volume1-final.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|footnote_a = Total population includes foreign residents. Maltese residents population estimate at end 2004 was 389,769. All official population data provided by the NSO.<big><ref name="Census2005"/></big>
| footnote_b = {{note|b|}} Also .eu, shared with other European Union member states
|footnote_b = ] before 2008.
|footnote_c = Also ], shared with other ] member states.
}} }}
{{Coord|35|53|N|14|30|E|region:MT_scale:300000|display=title}}


'''Malta''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=en-us-Malta.ogg|ˈ|m|ɒ|l|t|ə}}), officially the '''Republic of Malta''' ({{lang-mt|Repubblika ta' Malta}}, {{IPA-mt|rɛˈpʊbb.lɪ.kɐ ˈtɐ ˈmɐl.tɐ|pron}}), is a ]an ] comprising an ] of a few islands in the ]. It lies {{convert|80|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of ], {{convert|284|km|mi|abbr=on}} east of ], and {{convert|333|km|mi|abbr=on}} north of ]. The country covers just over {{convert|316|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}, with a population of around 450,000,<ref name="Estimated"/> making it one of the world's ]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.traveltips24.com/European_Microstates.htm |title=European Microstates |publisher=Traveltips24.com |date=22 December 2008 |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/klu/adco/1998/00000020/00000001/00135717#aff_1 |title=Career guidance in Malta: A Mediterranean microstate in transitio |publisher=Ingentaconnect.com |date=16 June 2006 |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/offbeat-news/the-microstate-environmental-world-cup-malta-vs-san-marino/613 |title=The Microstate Environmental World Cup: Malta vs. San Marino |publisher=Environmentalgraffiti.com |date=15 December 2007 |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref> and ] countries. The capital of Malta is ], which at 0.8&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup>, is the smallest national capital in the ].<ref>{{cite web|title=Top 10 Things to See and Do in Malta|url=http://blog.mercury-direct.co.uk/post/144/top-10-things-to-see-and-do-in-malta|publisher=Mercury Direct|accessdate=04/10/2013}}</ref> Malta has two official languages: ] and ]. '''Malta''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=en-us-Malta.ogg|ˈ|m|ɒ|l|t|ə}} {{respell|MOL|tə}}, {{IPAc-en|ˈ|m|ɔː|l|t|ə}} {{respell|MAWL|tə}}, {{IPA-mt|ˈmɐːltɐ|lang}}), officially the '''Republic of Malta''',<ref>({{langx|mt|Repubblika ta' Malta}} {{IPA-mt|rɛˈpʊbːlɪkɐ ˈmɐːltɐ|}})</ref> is an ] in ] located in the ], between Sicily and ]. It consists of an ] {{convert|80|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of Italy, {{convert|284|km|mi|abbr=on}} east of Tunisia,<ref name="ashby" /> and {{convert|333|km|mi|abbr=on}} north of Libya.<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://kasa.officinastudimedievali.it/cd/risorse/Libro/Malta_and_Sicily.pdf |title=Malta and Sicily: Miscellaneous research projects |year=2008 |publisher=Officina di Studi Medievali |isbn=978-88-88615-83-7 |editor-last=Bonanno, Anthony |access-date=23 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120527173156/http://kasa.officinastudimedievali.it/cd/risorse/Libro/Malta_and_Sicily.pdf |archive-date=27 May 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Chapman |first1=David |last2=Cassar |first2=Godwin |date=October 2004 |title=Valletta |journal=Cities |volume=21 |issue=5 |pages=451–463 |doi=10.1016/j.cities.2004.07.001| issn = 0264-2751 }}</ref> The two official languages are ] and ]. The country's capital is ], which is the smallest capital city in the EU by both area and population. It was also the first ] in Europe to become a ] in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Simone |first=Beppe |date=2018-01-24 |title=Valletta begins its journey as European Capital of Culture 2018 |url=https://www.europanostra.org/valletta-european-capital-of-culture-2018/#:~:text=Valletta%20is,%20in%20fact,%20the,of%20music,%20dance%20and%20light. |access-date=2024-12-06 |website=Europa Nostra |language=en-GB}}</ref>


With a population of about 542,000<ref name="NSO" /> over an area of {{convert|316|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}},<ref name="Zammit" /> Malta is the world's ]<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Sultana|first=Ronald G.|year=1998|title=Career guidance in Malta: A Mediterranean microstate in transition|url=https://www.um.edu.mt/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/39488/CG_in_Malta_Med_micro_state.pdf|journal=International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling|volume=20|page=3|doi=10.1023/A:1005386004103|s2cid=49470186 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202051119/https://www.um.edu.mt/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/39488/CG_in_Malta_Med_micro_state.pdf|archive-date=2 February 2017|access-date=27 January 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=15 December 2007|title=The Microstate Environmental World Cup: Malta vs. San Marino|url=http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/offbeat-news/the-microstate-environmental-world-cup-malta-vs-san-marino/613|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125032047/http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/offbeat-news/the-microstate-environmental-world-cup-malta-vs-san-marino/613|archive-date=25 January 2013|access-date=31 March 2009|website=Environmentalgraffiti.com}}</ref> and the ]. Various sources consider the country to consist of a single urban region,<ref name="WUP" /><ref name="ESPON-EUC" /> for which it is often described as a ].<ref name="GMB_Publishing" /><ref name="creativemalta" /><ref name="doi" />
Malta's location has historically given it great strategic importance as a naval base, and a succession of powers, including the ]ns, ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ], have ruled the islands.


Malta has been inhabited since about 5900 BC.<ref>{{Cite news |title=First inhabitants arrived 700 years earlier than thought |newspaper=] |url=https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/first-inhabitants-arrived-700-years-earlier-than-thought.673783.amp |url-status=unfit |access-date=25 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220323102223/https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/700-years-added-to-maltas-history.673498 |archive-date=23 March 2022}}</ref> Its location in the centre of the ] has historically given it great ] importance, with a succession of powers having ruled the islands and shaped its culture and society.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-18 |title=Malta {{!}} History, Language, Map, People, & Points of Interest {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Malta |access-date=2024-07-18 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref> These include the ]ns, ], ], and ] in ]; the ], ], and ] during the ]; and the ], ], and ] in the ].<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Rudolf |first1=Uwe Jens |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=nwuUOVkaMB0C&pg=PA1 |title=Historical Dictionary of Malta |last2=Berg |first2=Warren G. |date=2010 |publisher=Scarecrow Press |isbn=978-0-8108-7390-2 |pages=1–11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Boissevain |first=Jeremy |title=Religion, Power and Protest in Local Communities: The Northern Shore of the Mediterranean |date=1984 |publisher=Walter de Gruyter |isbn=978-3-11-009777-1 |editor-last=Eric R. Wolf |page=165 |chapter=Ritual Escalation in Malta |issn=1437-5370 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zobO6LmDLikC&pg=PA163 |issue=24: Religion and Society}}</ref> Malta came under ] in the early 19th century and served as the headquarters for the British ]. It was ] and was an important Allied base for North Africa and the Mediterranean.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 April 2015 |title=George Cross Award Commemoration |url=http://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2015-04/george-cross-award-commemoration-6501 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150403235953/http://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2015-04/george-cross-award-commemoration-6501 |archive-date=3 April 2015 |access-date=20 April 2015 |website=VisitMalta.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=29 April 2012 |title=Should the George Cross still be on Malta's flag? |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20120429/education/Should-the-George-Cross-still-be-on-Malta-s-flag-.417564 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427131704/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20120429/education/Should-the-George-Cross-still-be-on-Malta-s-flag-.417564 |archive-date=27 April 2015 |access-date=20 April 2015 |newspaper=]}}</ref> Malta achieved independence in 1964,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Christmas Broadcast 1967 |url=http://www.royal.gov.uk/ImagesandBroadcasts/TheQueensChristmasBroadcasts/Queen's%20Christmas%20Broadcasts%20listing/ChristmasBroadcast1967.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150502141940/http://www.royal.gov.uk/ImagesandBroadcasts/TheQueensChristmasBroadcasts/Queen%27s%20Christmas%20Broadcasts%20listing/ChristmasBroadcast1967.aspx |archive-date=2 May 2015 |access-date=20 April 2015 }}</ref> and established its current parliamentary republic in 1974. It has been a member state of the ] and the ] since independence; it joined the ] in 2004 and the ] monetary union in 2008.
Malta was ] the ] by ] of the ] in 1942, for the country's bravery in the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2015-04/george-cross-award-commemoration-6501|title=GEORGE CROSS AWARD COMMEMORATION|work=VisitMalta.com|date=14 April 2015|accessdate=20 April 2015}}</ref> The George Cross continues to appear on Malta's national flag.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20120429/education/Should-the-George-Cross-still-be-on-Malta-s-flag-.417564|title=Should the George Cross still be on Malta’s flag?|work=]|date=29 April 2012|accessdate=20 April 2015}}</ref> Under the Malta Independence Act, passed by the British Parliament in 1964, Malta gained independence from the United Kingdom, as an independent sovereign ], with ] as its Head of State, officially known from 1964-1974 as ], within the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.royal.gov.uk/ImagesandBroadcasts/TheQueensChristmasBroadcasts/Queen's%20Christmas%20Broadcasts%20listing/ChristmasBroadcast1967.aspx|title=Christmas Broadcast 1967|accessdate=20 April 2015}}</ref> The country became a republic in 1974, and although no longer a Commonwealth realm, remains a current ] of the Commonwealth of Nations. Malta was admitted to the ] in 1964 and to the European Union in 2004; in 2008, it became part of the ].


Malta's long history of foreign rule and close proximity to both Europe and North Africa have influenced its art, music, cuisine, and architecture. Malta has close historical and cultural ties to Italy and especially ]; between 62 and 66 percent of ] speak or have significant knowledge of the ], which had official status from 1530 to 1934.<ref name="Eurobarometer">{{cite report|author=European Commission |title=Special Eurobarometer 386: Europeans and Their Languages |date=June 2012 |series=Eurobarometer Special Surveys |url=http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_386_en.pdf |access-date=12 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160106183351/http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_386_en.pdf |archive-date= 6 January 2016 }}</ref><ref name="skills2022">{{Cite web|title=Malta Skills Survey 2022 - Preliminary Report|url=https://nso.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/Skills-Preliminary.pdf|date=15 June 2023|access-date=20 June 2023|website=nso.gov.mt|publisher=Malta National Statistics Office|page=40|archive-date=17 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230617051708/https://nso.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/Skills-Preliminary.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> Malta was an ], and ] is the ], although the country's ] guarantees freedom of conscience and religious worship.<ref name="constitution">{{Cite web |title=Constitution of Malta |url=http://justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8566 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181001103554/http://justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8566 |archive-date=1 October 2018 |access-date=10 February 2018 |publisher=Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government}} – Article 40: "all persons in Malta shall have full freedom of conscience and enjoy the free exercise of their respective mode of religious worship."</ref><ref name="cia">{{Cite web |publisher=Central Intelligence Agency |title=Malta |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/malta/ |access-date=16 May 2007 |website=] |archive-date=2 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402195116/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/malta/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Malta has a long Christian legacy and its ] is sometimes traditionally claimed to be an ] because, according to the ],<ref>({{bibleref|Acts|27:39–42}}; {{bibleref|Acts|28:1–11}})</ref> ] was shipwrecked on Malta.<ref name="doi.gov.mt">{{cite web|url=http://www.doi.gov.mt/EN/islands/dates.asp |title=Department of Information |publisher=Doi.gov.mt |date=3 March 2008 |accessdate=2 August 2008}}</ref> ] is the ] ].<ref name=cia>{{cite web |author=Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)|title=Malta |work=] |url=https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mt.html |accessdate=6 September 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legal-malta.com/law/constitution-1.htm |title=Chapter 1&nbsp;– The Republic of Malta |publisher=Legal-Malta |accessdate=4 September 2011}}</ref>


Malta is a popular tourist destination with its warm climate, numerous recreational areas, and architectural and historical monuments, including three ]: ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/130 |title=Hal Saflieni Hypogeum |publisher=UNESCO |accessdate=18 January 2014}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/131 |title=City of Valletta |publisher=UNESCO |accessdate=18 January 2014}}</ref> and seven ], which are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/132 |title=Megalithic Temples of Malta |publisher=UNESCO |accessdate=18 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.otsf.org/ |title=Malta Temples and The OTS Foundation |publisher=Otsf.org |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref><ref name=b1/> Malta is a ] with an advanced ]. It is heavily reliant on tourism, attracting both travelers and a growing expatriate community with its warm climate, numerous recreational areas, and architectural and historical monuments, including three ] World Heritage Sites: ],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hal Saflieni Hypogeum |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/130 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230211047/http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/130 |archive-date=30 December 2013 |access-date=18 January 2014 |publisher=UNESCO}}</ref> Valletta,<ref>{{Cite web |title=City of Valletta |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/131 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160325160506/https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/131/ |archive-date=25 March 2016 |access-date=18 January 2014 |publisher=UNESCO}}</ref> and seven ] which are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Megalithic Temples of Malta |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/132 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140107201227/http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/132/ |archive-date=7 January 2014 |access-date=18 January 2014 |publisher=UNESCO}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta Temples and The OTS Foundation |url=http://www.otsf.org/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140208014817/http://otsf.org/ |archive-date=8 February 2014 |access-date=31 March 2009 |publisher=OTSF}}</ref><ref name="b1" />


==Etymology==<!--linked--> {{anchor|Etymology|Names|}}<!--linked-->

The origin of the term ''Malta'' is uncertain, and the modern-day variation derives from the ]. The most common ] is that the word ''Malta'' derives from the ] word {{lang|grc|μέλι}}, ''meli'', "honey".<ref>{{LSJ|me/li^|μέλι|ref}}.</ref> The ancient Greeks called the island {{lang|grc|Μελίτη}} (''Melitē'') meaning "]-sweet" (which was also, inter alia, the name of a ]<ref>, Georg Autenrieth, ''A Homeric Dictionary'', at the Perseus Project.</ref>), possibly due to Malta's unique production of honey; an ] species of ] lives on the island, giving it the popular nickname the "land of honey".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/2003/06/29/l7.html|publisher=Malta Today|title=Controversy over unique Maltese bee population|date=6 February 2008}}</ref> The Romans went on to call the island Melita,<ref name="malticross"/> which is a ] of the Greek {{lang|grc|Μελίτη}}.<ref>{{L&S|Melita|ref}}</ref> Another theory suggests that the word ''Malta'' comes from the ] word ''Maleth'' meaning "a haven"<ref>{{cite book |last=Pickles |first=Tim|title= Malta 1565: Last Battle of the Crusades |publisher=Osprey Publishing |url=http://books.google.com/books?id=0LuvbRQ78sIC&pg=PA11 |year=1998 |isbn=978-1-85532-603-3}}</ref> in reference to Malta's many bays and ]s. Few other etymological mentions appear in classical literature, with the term ''Malta'' appearing in its present form in the '']'' (Itin. Marit. p.&nbsp;518; Sil. Ital. xiv. 251).<ref>{{cite book|title=A dictionary of Greek and Roman geography|author=]|editor=John Murray|volume=II|page=320|year=1872|url=https://archive.org/details/adictionarygree13smitgoog}}</ref>
==Name==
The ] name ''{{linktext|Malta}}'' derives from ] and ] {{lang|it|Malta}}, from medieval ] {{translit|ar|Māliṭā}} ({{lang|ar|]}}), from classical ] {{lang|la|{{linktext|Melita}}}},<ref>{{Cite journal|title=The Corps Disease: Brucellosis and Its Historical Association with the Royal Army Medical Corps |url=http://maltaramc.com/imggen/brucellosis.pdf |last=Vassallo |first=DJ |journal=Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps |year=1992 |volume=138 |issue=3 |pages=140–150 |doi=10.1136/jramc-138-03-09 |pmid=1453384 |s2cid=41069698 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223043726/http://maltaramc.com/imggen/brucellosis.pdf |archive-date=23 December 2017 |access-date=24 December 2017}}</ref> from ] or ] forms<ref>{{L&S|Melita|ref}}</ref> of the ] {{translit|grc|Melítē}} ({{lang|grc|{{linktext|Μελίτη}}}}) of uncertain origin. The name {{translit|grc|Melítē}}{{mdash}}shared by the ]n ] ] in antiquity{{mdash}}literally means "place of honey" or "sweetness", derived from the combining form of {{translit|grc|méli}} ({{lang|grc|{{linktext|μέλι}}}}, "honey" or any similarly sweet thing)<ref>{{LSJ|me/li^|μέλι|ref}}.</ref> and the ] {{translit|grc|-ē}} ({{lang|grc|{{linktext|-η}}}}). The ancient Greeks may have given the island this name after Malta's ] of ]s.<ref name="malticross">{{Cite book |last=Castillo |first=Dennis Angelo |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i5ns5LNtoiUC&pg=PA25 |title=The Maltese Cross: A Strategic History of Malta |publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group |year=2006 |isbn=978-0-313-32329-4 |access-date=1 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906202533/https://books.google.com/books?id=i5ns5LNtoiUC&pg=PA25 |archive-date=6 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> Alternatively, other scholars argue for derivation of the Greek name from an original ] or ] {{translit|phn|Maleth}} ({{lang|phn|{{linktext|𐤌𐤋𐤈}}}}, {{smallcaps|mlṭ}}), meaning "haven"<ref>{{Cite book |last=Pickles |first=Tim |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=0LuvbRQ78sIC&pg=PA11 |title=Malta 1565: Last Battle of the Crusades |publisher=Osprey Publishing |year=1998 |isbn=978-1-85532-603-3 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907191132/https://books.google.com/books?id=0LuvbRQ78sIC&pg=PA11 |archive-date=7 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> or "port"<ref>{{Cite web |title=Renaming Malta the Republic of Phoenicia |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20111001/letters/Renaming-Malta-the-Republic-of-Phoenicia.387184 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303235338/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20111001/letters/Renaming-Malta-the-Republic-of-Phoenicia.387184 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |access-date=28 February 2016 |website=The Times of Malta |date=October 2011 }}</ref> in reference to the ] and its primary settlement at ] following the sea level rise that separated the ] and flooded its original coastal settlements in the 10th century{{nbsp}}BC.<ref name=vel>{{citation |last=Vella |first=John |contribution-url=https://www.athensjournals.gr/mediterranean/2023-9-1-2-Vella.pdf |contribution=Greek Words in Maltese Harbour Toponymy |title=Athens Journal of Mediterranean Studies |volume=9 |issue=1 |date=January 2023 |pages=25–52 |access-date=7 April 2024 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418000713/https://www.athensjournals.gr/mediterranean/2023-9-1-2-Vella.pdf |url-status=live }}.</ref> The name was then applied to all of ] by the Greeks and to ] at ] by the Romans.<ref name=vel/>

''Malta'' and its ] ''{{linktext|Maltese}}'' are attested in English from the late 16th century.<ref>''Oxford English Dictionary'', s.v. "Malta, ''n.''", and "Maltese, ''n.'' & ''adj.''"</ref> The Greek name appears in the ] in the ]'s ].<ref>{{bibleref|Acts|28:1}}.</ref> ] including the 1611 ] long used the ] form {{lang|la|Melita}}, although ]'s ] from Greek sources used the transliteration {{translit|grc|Melite}} instead. ''Malta'' is widely used in more recent versions. The name is attested earlier in other languages, however, including some medieval ] of the Latin '']''.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Smith, William |url=https://archive.org/details/adictionarygree13smitgoog |title=A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Geography |publisher=John Murray |year=1872 |editor-last=John Murray |volume=II |page= |author-link=William Smith (lexicographer)}}</ref>


==History== ==History==
{{Main|History of Malta|Timeline of Maltese history}} {{Main|History of Malta}}


===Prehistory=== ===Prehistory===
{{See also|Megalithic Temples of Malta|Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni|Għar Dalam}} {{See also|Megalithic Temples of Malta|Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum|Għar Dalam}}

] found by ] at ] resembles that found in Italy, and suggests that the Maltese islands were first settled in 5200 BC mainly by ] hunters or farmers who had arrived from the larger island of ], possibly the ]. The extinction of the ] and ] has been linked to the earliest arrival of humans on Malta.<ref>, A. Mifsud, C. Savona-Ventura, S. Mifsud</ref> Prehistoric farming settlements dating to ] period were discovered in open areas and also in caves, such as ].<ref name="Skeates2010">{{cite book|author=Robin Skeates|title=An Archaeology of the Senses: Prehistoric Malta|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=HOjDB8M27wkC&pg=PA124|year=2010|publisher=Oxford University Press|isbn=978-0-19-921660-4|pages=124–132}}</ref>

The ] were the only tribe known to have inhabited the island at this time<ref name="gozo">{{cite news|url=http://replay.waybackmachine.org/20090321192841/http://www.islandofgozo.org/history.htm|publisher=IslandofGozo.org|title=Gozo|date=7 October 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.localhistories.org/malta.html|publisher=LocalHistories.org|title=Brief History of Malta|date=7 October 2007}}</ref> and are generally regarded as related to the ].<ref>{{cite book|last= Anthon|first=Charles|title=A Classical Dictionary: Containing an Account of the Principal Proper Names|publisher=New York Public Library|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=3iQQAAAAYAAJ&pg=RA1-PA1232|year=1848}}</ref> The population on Malta grew ], raised ] and, in common with other ancient Mediterranean cultures, worshiped a ] represented in Maltese prehistoric artefacts exhibiting the proportions seen in similar statuettes, including the ].

] ]ic temple complex]]
]]]
Pottery from Għar Dalam phase is similar to pottery found in ], Sicily. A culture of ] temple builders then either supplanted or arose from this early period. During 3500 BC, these people built some of the oldest existing, free-standing structures in the world in the form of the megalithic ] temples on ];<ref name=otsf>{{cite web|url=http://www.otsf.org/ |title=Old Temples Study Foundation |publisher=OTSF |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref> other early temples include those at ] and ].<ref name=b1>Daniel Cilia, ''Malta Before History'' (2004: Miranda Publishers) ISBN 9990985081</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Sheehan|first=Sean|title=Malta|publisher=Marshall Cavendish|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=LRGrRy7S750C&pg=PA87|isbn=0-7614-0993-9|year=2000}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://users.aber.ac.uk/jpg/malta/arch.html|title=Archaeology and prehistory |publisher=Aberystwyth, The University of Wales |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref>

The temples have distinctive architecture, typically a complex trefoil design, and were used from 4000 to 2500 BC. Animal bones and a knife found behind a removable altar stone suggest that temple rituals included ]. Tentative information suggests that the sacrifices were made to the goddess of fertility, whose statue is now in the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.visitmalta.com/museum-of-archaeology |title=Visit Malta-Malta,Gozo,Comino-Museums in Malta-Museum of Archaeology |publisher=Visitmalta.com |accessdate=2 August 2010}}</ref> The culture apparently disappeared from the Maltese Islands around 2500 BC. Archaeologists speculate that the temple builders fell victim to famine or disease.

Another interesting archaeological feature of the Maltese islands often attributed to these ancient builders, are equidistant uniform grooves dubbed "cart tracks" or "cart ruts" which can be found in several locations throughout the islands with the most prominent being those found in an area of Malta named "Clapham Junction". These may have been caused by wooden-wheeled carts eroding soft limestone.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.port.ac.uk/aboutus/newsandevents/news/archive2009/april2009/title,94480,en.html |title=Ancient mystery solved by geographers |publisher=Port.ac.uk |date=20 April 2009 |accessdate=14 November 2010}}{{dead link|date=October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|author=Mottershead, Derek; Alastair Pearson & Martin Schaefer |title=The cart ruts of Malta: an applied geomorphology approach|journal=Antiquity|volume=82|issue=318|year=2008|pages=1065–1079 |url=http://antiquity.ac.uk/Ant/082/1065/ant0821065.pdf}}</ref>

After 2500 BC, the Maltese Islands were depopulated for several decades until the arrival of a new influx of ] immigrants, a culture that ] its dead and introduced smaller megalithic structures called ] to Malta.<ref>Daniel Cilia, . Retrieved 28 January 2007.</ref> In most cases there are small chambers here, with the cover made of a large slab placed on upright stones. They are claimed to belong to a population certainly different from that which built the previous megalithic temples. It is presumed the population arrived from Sicily because of the similarity of Maltese dolmens to some small constructions found in the largest island of the Mediterranean sea.<ref name=Piccolo-dolmens>{{cite book|title=Ancient Stones, The Prehistoric Dolmens of Sicily|year=2013|publisher=Brazen Head Publishing|location=Abingdon/GB|isbn=9780956510624|author=Piccolo, Salvatore|author2=Darvill, Timothy|accessdate=17 October 2013}}</ref>


Malta has been inhabited from circa 5900 BC,<ref>{{Cite web |title=700 years added to Malta's history |url=https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/700-years-added-to-maltas-history.673498nhabitants |access-date=11 January 2023 |website=Times of Malta |date=16 March 2018 |language=en-gb |archive-date=11 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230111155533/https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/700-years-added-to-maltas-history.673498nhabitants |url-status=live }}</ref> since the arrival of settlers originating from ] agriculturalists.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Ariano |first1=Bruno |last2=Mattiangeli |first2=Valeria |last3=Breslin |first3=Emily M. |last4=Parkinson |first4=Eóin W. |last5=McLaughlin |first5=T. Rowan |last6=Thompson |first6=Jess E. |last7=Power |first7=Ronika K. |last8=Stock |first8=Jay T. |last9=Mercieca-Spiteri |first9=Bernardette |last10=Stoddart |first10=Simon |last11=Malone |first11=Caroline |date=20 June 2022 |title=Ancient Maltese genomes and the genetic geography of Neolithic Europe |journal=Current Biology |language=en |volume=32 |issue=12 |pages=2668–2680.e6 |doi=10.1016/j.cub.2022.04.069 |pmid=35588742 |pmc=9245899|bibcode=2022CBio...32E2668A }}</ref> Pottery found by archaeologists at the ] resembles that found in Italy, and suggests that the Maltese islands were first settled in 5200 BC by ] hunters or farmers who had arrived from Sicily, possibly the ]. The extinction of the ], ] and ] has been linked to the earliest arrival of humans on Malta.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/3096/palaeol.html |title=Palaeolithic Man in the Maltese Islands |author=A. Mifsud |author2=C. Savona-Ventura |author3=S. Mifsud |access-date=8 July 2019 |archive-date=17 January 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990117003916/http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/3096/palaeol.html |url-status=bot: unknown }}</ref> Prehistoric farming settlements dating to the ] include ].<ref name="Skeates2010">{{Cite book |last=Skeates|first= Robin |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HOjDB8M27wkC&pg=PA124 |title=An Archaeology of the Senses: Prehistoric Malta |publisher=Oxford University Press |year=2010 |isbn=978-0-19-921660-4 |pages=124–132 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907185312/https://books.google.com/books?id=HOjDB8M27wkC&pg=PA124 |archive-date=7 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> The population on Malta grew ], raised livestock and, in common with other ancient Mediterranean cultures, worshipped a ].<ref>{{Cite web|title=History|publisher=Maltese Italian Chamber of Commerce|url=https://www.micc.org.mt/en/en/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1235&Itemid=821&lang=en|access-date=8 October 2021|archive-date=8 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008001147/https://www.micc.org.mt/en/en/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1235&Itemid=821&lang=en|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Greeks, Phoenicians and Romans===
{{See also|Magna Graecia|Phoenicia|Cippi of Melqart|Ancient Rome|Sicilia (Roman province)|Byzantine Empire}}


] ]ic temple complex]]
Phoenician traders,<ref name="ndmh">{{cite news|url=http://www.doi.gov.mt/EN/islands/dates.asp|publisher=Department of Information&nbsp;– Maltese Government|title=Notable dates in Malta's history|date=6 February 2008}}</ref> who used the islands as a stop on their trade routes from the eastern ] to ], joined the natives on the island.<ref>{{cite book|last= Owen|first=Charles|title=The Maltese Islands|publisher=Praeger|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=OhRCAAAAIAAJ|year=1969}}</ref> The Phoenicians inhabited the area now known as ], and its surrounding town of ], which they called ''Maleth''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edrichton.com/Excursions/Mdinaknights/index.htm |title=History of Mdina |publisher=Edrichton.com}}</ref> The ], who also much later inhabited Mdina, referred to it (and the island) as ''Melita''.<ref name="malticross">{{cite book|last=Castillo|first=Dennis Angelo|title=The Maltese Cross: A Strategic History of Malta|publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=i5ns5LNtoiUC&pg=PA25|year=2006}}</ref>
A culture of ]ic temple builders then either supplanted or arose from this early period. Around 3500 BC, these people built some of the oldest existing free-standing structures in the world in the form of the megalithic ] temples on ];<ref name="otsf">{{Cite web |title=Old Temples Study Foundation |url=http://www.otsf.org/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140208014817/http://otsf.org/ |archive-date=8 February 2014 |access-date=31 March 2009 |publisher=OTSF}}</ref> other early temples include those at ] and ].<ref name="b1">{{cite book|first=Daniel |last=Cilia|title=Malta Before History|year=2004|publisher= Miranda Publishers| isbn=99909-85-08-1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Sheehan |first=Sean |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LRGrRy7S750C&pg=PA87 |title=Malta |publisher=Marshall Cavendish |year=2000 |isbn=978-0-7614-0993-9 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906212602/https://books.google.com/books?id=LRGrRy7S750C&pg=PA87 |archive-date=6 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Archaeology and prehistory |url=http://users.aber.ac.uk/jpg/malta/arch.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081212031419/http://users.aber.ac.uk/jpg/malta/arch.html |archive-date=12 December 2008 |access-date=31 March 2009 |publisher=Aberystwyth, The University of Wales}}</ref> The temples have distinctive architecture, typically a complex ] design, and were used from 4000 to 2500 BC. Tentative information suggests that ]s were made to the goddess of fertility, whose statue is now in the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta.<ref>{{Cite web |title=National Museum of Archaeology |url=http://www.visitmalta.com/museum-of-archaeology |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100329164847/http://visitmalta.com/museum-of-archaeology |archive-date=29 March 2010 |website=Visitmalta.com}}</ref> Another archaeological feature of the Maltese Islands often attributed to these ancient builders is equidistant uniform grooves dubbed "cart tracks" or "cart ruts" which can be found in several locations throughout the islands, with the most prominent being those found in ]. These may have been caused by wooden-wheeled carts eroding soft limestone.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 April 2009 |title=Ancient mystery solved by geographers |url=http://www.port.ac.uk/aboutus/newsandevents/news/archive2009/april2009/title,94480,en.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101229050005/http://www.port.ac.uk/aboutus/newsandevents/news/archive2009/april2009/title%2C94480%2Cen.html |archive-date=29 December 2010 |access-date=14 November 2010 |website=Port.ac.uk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Mottershead, Derek |last2=Pearson, Alastair |last3=Schaefer, Martin |year=2008 |title=The cart ruts of Malta: an applied geomorphology approach |journal=Antiquity |volume=82 |issue=318 |pages=1065–1079 |doi=10.1017/S0003598X00097787 |s2cid=162827926 }}</ref> The culture apparently disappeared from the islands around 2500 BC, possibly due to famine or disease.


After 2500 BC, the Maltese Islands were depopulated for several decades until an influx of ] immigrants, a culture that ] its dead and introduced smaller megalithic structures called ]s.<ref>{{cite web|first=Daniel|last=Cilia|url=http://web.infinito.it/utenti/m/malta_mega_temples/linetime.html|title=Malta Before Common Era|work=The Megalithic Temples of Malta|access-date=28 January 2007|archive-date=7 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607074024/http://web.infinito.it/utenti/m/malta_mega_temples/linetime.html|url-status=live}}</ref> They are claimed to belong to a population certainly different from that which built the previous megalithic temples. It is presumed the population arrived from ] because of the similarity of Maltese dolmens to some small constructions found there.<ref name="Piccolo-dolmens">{{Cite book |last1=Piccolo|first1=Salvatore |title=Ancient Stones, The Prehistoric Dolmens of Sicily |last2=Darvill|first2= Timothy |publisher=Brazen Head Publishing |year=2013 |isbn=978-0-9565106-2-4}}</ref>
] mosaic from ].]]
After the ] in 332 BC, the area came under the control of ], a former Phoenician colony.<ref name="maltihist">{{cite book|last=Terterov|first= Marat|title=Doing Business with Malta|publisher=GMB Publishing Ltd|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=kc7DO3TZEYcC&pg=PA4|isbn=1-905050-63-1|year=2005}}</ref> During this time the people on Malta mainly cultivated ] and ], and produced textiles.<ref name="maltihist"/>


===Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans===
During the ] of 264 BC, tensions led the Maltese people to rebel against Carthage and turn control of their garrison over to the Roman consul ].<ref name="malticross"/> Malta remained loyal to Rome during the ] and the Romans rewarded it with the title '']'', a designation that meant it was exempt from paying ] or the rule of ], although at this time it fell within the jurisdiction of the province of ].<ref name="malticross"/> Punic influence, however, remained vibrant on the islands with the famous ], pivotal in deciphering the ], dedicated in the 2nd century BC.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Art Journal: The Illustrated Catalogue of the Industry of All Nations, Volume 2|year=1853|publisher=Virtue|page=vii|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=wmRVAAAAcAAJ|accessdate=15 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Volume 16, Issue 1|url=http://www.patrimonju.org/content.aspx?id=176541&subId=176539|publisher=Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti|accessdate=16 February 2014}}</ref>
{{See also|Magna Graecia|Phoenicia|Cippi of Melqart|Ancient Rome|Sicilia (Roman province)|Byzantine Malta}}
], at its greatest extent since the fall of the ] (its ] in pink)).]]
]n traders<ref name="ndmh">{{Cite news |date=6 February 2008 |title=Notable dates in Malta's history |publisher=Department of Information&nbsp;– Maltese Government |url=http://www.doi.gov.mt/EN/islands/dates.asp |url-status=live |access-date=6 February 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091125021207/http://www.doi.gov.mt/EN/islands/dates.asp |archive-date=25 November 2009}}</ref> ] the islands under the name Ann ({{lang|phn|𐤀𐤍𐤍‎}}, {{sc|ʾnn}}){{sfnp|Culican|1992}}{{sfnp|Filigheddu|2006}}<ref name=vel/> sometime after {{nowrap|1000 BC}}<ref name="ashby">{{Cite journal |last=Ashby |first=Thomas |year=1915 |title=Roman Malta |url=https://zenodo.org/record/1449693 |journal=Journal of Roman Studies |volume=5 |pages=23–80 |doi=10.2307/296290 |jstor=296290 |s2cid=250349579 |access-date=30 August 2019 |archive-date=27 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210327063440/https://zenodo.org/record/1449693 |url-status=live }}</ref> as a stop on their trade routes from the eastern ] to ].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Owen |first=Charles |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=OhRCAAAAIAAJ |title=The Maltese Islands |publisher=Praeger |year=1969 |access-date=1 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906224305/https://books.google.com/books?id=OhRCAAAAIAAJ |archive-date=6 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> Their seat of government was apparently at ], which shared the island's name;{{sfnp|Culican|1992}}{{sfnp|Filigheddu|2006}} the primary port was at ] on the ], which they called Maleth.<ref name=vel/> After the ] in 332 BC, the area came under the control of ].<ref name="ashby" /><ref name="maltihist">{{Cite book |last=Terterov |first=Marat |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kc7DO3TZEYcC&pg=PA4 |title=Doing Business with Malta |publisher=GMB Publishing Ltd |year=2005 |isbn=978-1-905050-63-5 |access-date=1 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906173245/https://books.google.com/books?id=kc7DO3TZEYcC&pg=PA4 |archive-date=6 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> During this time, the people on Malta mainly cultivated ]s and ] and produced textiles.<ref name="maltihist" />


] mosaic from the ]]]
By 117 AD, the Maltese Islands were a thriving part of the ], being promoted to the status of '']'' under ].


During the ], the island was conquered after harsh fighting by ].<ref name="ei">{{Cite web |title=Malta |url=http://www.treccani.it/enciclopedia/malta_(Enciclopedia-Italiana)/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101065621/http://www.treccani.it/enciclopedia/malta_(Enciclopedia-Italiana)/ |archive-date=1 January 2016 |access-date=2 November 2015 |website=Enciclopedia Italiana |language=it}}</ref> After the failure of his expedition, the island fell back in the hands of Carthage, only to be ] during the ] in {{nowrap|218 BC}} by the ] ].<ref name=ei/> After that, Malta became a {{lang|la|]}}, a designation that meant it was exempt from paying ] or the rule of ], and fell within the jurisdiction of the ] of ].<ref name="malticross" /> Its capital at Mdina was renamed ] after the Greek and Roman name for the island. Punic influence, however, remained vibrant on the islands with the famous ], pivotal in deciphering the ], dedicated in the second {{nowrap|century BC.}}<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wmRVAAAAcAAJ |title=The Art Journal: The Illustrated Catalogue of the Industry of All Nations|volume= 2 |publisher=Virtue |year=1853 |page=vii |access-date=15 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150904001711/https://books.google.com/books?id=wmRVAAAAcAAJ |archive-date=4 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Volume 16, Issue 1 |url=http://www.patrimonju.org/content.aspx?id=176541&subId=176539 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221102448/http://www.patrimonju.org/content.aspx?id=176541&subId=176539 |archive-date=21 February 2014 |access-date=16 February 2014 |publisher=Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti}}</ref> Local Roman coinage, which ceased in the first {{nowrap|century BC,}}<ref name="cassar56–57">{{harvnb|Cassar|2000|pp=56–57}}</ref> indicates the slow pace of the island's Romanisation: the last locally minted coins still bear inscriptions in ] and Punic motifs, showing the resistance of the Greek and Punic cultures.<ref>{{Cite web |title=218 BC – 395 AD Roman Coinage |url=http://www.centralbankmalta.org/timeline-coins |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150126230408/http://www.centralbankmalta.org/timeline-coins |archive-date=26 January 2015 |access-date=2 November 2015 |publisher=Bank of Malta}}</ref>
When the Roman Empire split into Eastern and Western divisions in the 4th century, Malta fell under the control of the Greek speaking ] from 395 to 870,<ref name="ndmh"/> which ruled from ].<ref name="ruff">{{cite book|last= Borg|first= Victor Paul|title=The Rough Guide to Malta & Gozo|publisher=Rough Guides|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=o1QO1Tk-FsMC&pg=PA331|isbn=1-85828-680-8|year= 2001}}</ref> Although Malta was under Byzantine rule for four centuries, not much is known from this period. There is evidence that ], including the ] and ], briefly took control of the islands before the Byzantines launched a counterattack and retook Malta.<ref name="ruff"/>


In the second century, Emperor ] (r. 117–38) upgraded the status of Malta to a {{nowrap|]}} or free town: the island's local affairs were administered by four {{lang|la|]}} and a municipal senate, while a Roman ] living in ] represented the ] of Sicily.<ref name=ei/> In {{nowrap|AD 58,}} ] and ] were shipwrecked on the islands.<ref name=ei/> Paul remained for three months, preaching the ].<ref name=ei/> The island is mentioned at the ] as Melitene ({{langx|grc|Μελιτήνη}}).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0031.tlg005.perseus-grc1:28.1|title=Acts, chapter 28, verse 1|website=Perseus.tufts.edu|access-date=20 February 2021|archive-date=14 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414123234/https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0031.tlg005.perseus-grc1:28.1|url-status=live}}</ref>
===The Muslim period and the Middle Ages===
{{See also|Arab-Byzantine Wars|Emirate of Sicily}}


In 395, when the ] at the death of ], Malta, following Sicily, fell under the control of the ].<ref>{{Cite encyclopedia |year=1991 |title=Malta |encyclopedia=Oxford Dictionary of Byzantium |publisher=Oxford University Press |last=Brown |first=Thomas S. |editor-last=Kazhdan |editor-first=Alexander |page=1277 |isbn=978-0-19-504652-6}}</ref> During the ] as the ], Malta was conquered or occupied a number of times.<ref name="cassar56–57" /> From 454 to 464 the islands were subdued by the ], and after 464 by the ].<ref name=ei/> In 533, ], on his way to conquer the ] in North Africa, reunited the islands under Imperial (]) rule.<ref name=ei/> Little is known about the ]: the island depended on the ] and had Greek governors and a small Greek garrison.<ref name=ei/> While the bulk of population continued to be constituted by the old, Latinized dwellers, during this period its religious allegiance oscillated between the Pope and the ].<ref name=ei/> The Byzantine rule introduced ] families to the Maltese collective.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Edwards |first1=I. E. S. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=n1TmVvMwmo4C&pg=RA1-PA723 |title=The Cambridge Ancient History |last2=Gadd |first2=C. J.|author2-link=C. J. Gadd |last3=Hammond |first3=N. G. L.|author3-link=N. G. L. Hammond |publisher=Cambridge University Press |year=1975 |isbn=978-0-521-08691-2 |author-link=I. E. S. Edwards |access-date=12 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170124050045/https://books.google.com/books?id=n1TmVvMwmo4C&pg=RA1-PA723 |archive-date=24 January 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> Malta remained under the ] until 870, when it was conquered by the ].<ref name=ei/><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Troll, Christian W. |title=Christian Lives Given to the Study of Islam |last2=Hewer, C.T.R. |date=12 September 2012 |publisher=Fordham University Press |isbn=978-0-8232-4319-8 |page=258 |chapter=Journeying toward God}}</ref>
Malta became involved in the Muslim–Byzantine Wars, and the conquest of Malta is closely linked with ] that began in 827 after admiral ]' betrayal of his fellow Byzantines, requesting that the ] dynasty invade the island.<ref name="stan">
{{cite news|url=http://www.stanford.edu/group/mountpolizzo/handbookPDF/MPHandbook5.pdf|format=PDF|publisher=Archaeology.Stanford.edu|title=Brief history of Sicily|date=7 October 2007}}</ref>
The Muslim chronicler and geographer ] recounts that in 870 AD, following a violent struggle against the occupying Byzantines, the Muslim invaders, first led by Halaf al-Hadim, and later by Sawada ibn Muhammad, looted and pillaged the island, destroying the most important buildings, and leaving it practically uninhabited until it was recolonised by the Muslims from Sicily in 1048–1049 AD. It is uncertain whether this new settlement took place as a consequence of demographic expansion in Sicily, as a result of a higher standard of living in Sicily (in which case the recolonisation may have taken place a few decades earlier), or as a result of civil war which broke out among Muslim rulers of Sicily in 1038.<ref>Brincat, M.J. (1995) Malta 870–1054 Al-Himyari's Account and its Linguistic Implications. Valletta, Malta: Said International.</ref>
The Muslims introduced new ], some fruits and cotton and the ] language was adopted on the island from Sicily: it would eventually evolve into the ].<ref>
{{cite book|last= Wilson|first=Andrew|title=Corpus Linguistics Around the World|publisher=Rodopi|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=jIP9WiIOtKYC&pg=PA64|isbn=90-420-1836-4|year=2006}}</ref>


===Arab period and the Middle Ages===
The Christians on the island were allowed ]; they had to pay ], a tax for non-Muslims, but were exempt from the tax that Muslims had to pay (]).<ref name="gozmalt">{{cite book|last= Bain|first=Carolyn|title=Malta & Gozo|publisher=Lonely Planet|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=lqHLlLsgi1IC&pg=PA22|isbn=1-74059-178-X|year=2004}}</ref>
{{See also|Arab–Byzantine wars|Islam in Malta}}
Malta became involved in the ], and the conquest of Malta is closely linked with ] that began in 827 after ]' betrayal of his fellow Byzantines, requesting that the ] invade the island.<ref name="stan">{{Cite news |date=7 October 2007 |title=Brief history of Sicily |website=Archaeology.Stanford.edu |url=http://www.stanford.edu/group/mountpolizzo/handbookPDF/MPHandbook5.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=20 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119004221/http://www.stanford.edu/group/mountpolizzo/handbookPDF/MPHandbook5.pdf |archive-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> The ] chronicler and geographer ] recounts that in 870, following ] against the defending Byzantines, the Arab invaders, first led by Halaf al-Hadim, and later by Sawada ibn Muhammad,<ref name="Travel Malta">{{Cite book |title=Travel Malta |publisher=MobileReference |isbn=978-1-61198-279-4 |at=The Arab period and the Middle Ages}}</ref> pillaged the island, destroying the most important buildings, and leaving it practically uninhabited until it was recolonised by the Arabs from Sicily in 1048–1049.<ref name="Travel Malta" /> It is uncertain whether this new settlement resulted from demographic expansion in Sicily, a higher ] in Sicily (in which case the recolonisation may have taken place a few decades earlier), or a civil war which broke out among the Arab rulers of Sicily in 1038.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Brincat |first1=Joseph M. |title=Malta 870-1054: Al-Himyari's account and its linguistic implications |date=1995 |publisher=Said International |page=21 |url=https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/bitstream/123456789/55365/4/Malta_870_1054.pdf |access-date=8 December 2021 |archive-date=13 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213162211/https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/bitstream/123456789/55365/4/Malta_870_1054.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> The ] introduced new irrigation, cotton, and some fruits. The ] language was adopted on the island from Sicily; it eventually evolved into the ].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Wilson |first=Andrew |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jIP9WiIOtKYC&pg=PA64 |title=Corpus Linguistics Around the World |publisher=Rodopi |year=2006 |isbn=978-90-420-1836-5 |access-date=1 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906211935/https://books.google.com/books?id=jIP9WiIOtKYC&pg=PA64 |archive-date=6 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>


===Norman Conquest=== ===Norman conquest===
{{main|Norman invasion of Malta}}
] returned Malta to Christian rule.]]
] returned Malta to Christian rule.]]
The ] captured Malta in 1091, as part of their ]. The Norman leader, ], was welcomed by the native Christians.<ref name="malticross"/> The notion that Count Roger I reportedly tore off a portion of his checkered red-and-white banner and presented it to the ] – forming the basis of the present-day ] in gratitude for having fought on his behalf&nbsp;– is founded in myth.<ref name="malticross"/><ref>Blouet, B. (1987) The Story of Malta. Third Edition. Malta: Progress Press, p.37.</ref>
The ] attacked Malta in 1091, as part of their ].<ref>] (1971), pg. 507–11</ref> The Norman leader, ], was welcomed by Christian captives.<ref name="malticross" /> The notion that Count Roger I reportedly tore off a portion of his checkered red-and-white banner and presented it to the ] in gratitude for having fought on his behalf, forming the basis of the modern ], is founded in myth.<ref name="malticross" /><ref>Blouet, B. (1987) The Story of Malta. Third Edition. Malta: Progress Press, p.37.</ref>


Malta became part of the newly formed ], which also covered the island of Sicily and the southern half of the ].<ref name="malticross" /> The Roman Catholic Church was reinstated as the state religion, with Malta under the ], and some ] sprang up around Malta, especially in its ancient capital ].<ref name="malticross" /> ] made Malta a ] of the kingdom and installed a ] in 1192. As the islands were much desired due to their strategic importance, it was during this time that the men of Malta were militarised to fend off attempted conquest; early Counts were skilled ] ]s.<ref name="malticross" />
] map of Malta, by ]]]


The kingdom passed on to the ] dynasty from 1194 until 1266. As ] began to reorganise his Sicilian kingdom, Western culture and religion started to exert their influence more intensely.<ref>Blouet, B. (1987) The Story of Malta. Third Edition. Malta: Progress Press, p.37-38.</ref> Malta was declared a county and a ], but its trade was totally ruined. For a long time it remained solely a fortified ].<ref>{{cite book|author-link=Robert Montgomery Martin|author=Martin, Robert Montgomery|year=1843|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yDQGAAAAMAAJ&pg=RA1-PA568 |title=History of the colonies of the British Empire|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906192512/https://books.google.com/books?id=yDQGAAAAMAAJ&pg=RA1-PA568 |archive-date=6 September 2015|publisher= W. H. Allen|page=569|quote=Malta remained for 72 years subject of the emperors of Germany. The island was after the period of Count Roger of the Normans afterward given up to the Germans, on account of the marriage between Constance, heiress of Sicily, and Henry VI, son of the Emperor Friedrick Barbarossa. Malta was elevated to a county and a marquisate, but its trade was now totally ruined, and for a considerable period of it remained solely a fortified garrison.}}</ref>
The Norman period was productive; Malta became part of the newly formed ] which also covered the island of Sicily and the southern half of the ].<ref name="malticross"/> The Catholic Church was reinstated as the state religion with Malta under the ], and some ] sprung up around Malta especially in its ancient capital ].<ref name="malticross"/> ], the last Norman monarch, made Malta a ] or ] within the kingdom and installed a ]. As the islands were much desired due to their strategic importance, it was during this time the men of Malta were ] to fend off capture attempts; the early counts were skilled ] ].<ref name="malticross"/>


A mass expulsion of Arabs occurred in 1224, and the entire Christian male population of ] in Abruzzo was deported to Malta in the same year.<ref name="malticross" /> In 1249 ], decreed that all remaining Muslims be expelled from Malta<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 October 2007 |title=Time-Line |website=AboutMalta.com |url=http://www.aboutmalta.com/history/time-Line.htm |url-status=live |access-date=23 July 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161027030855/http://www.aboutmalta.com/history/time-Line.htm |archive-date=27 October 2016}}</ref> or compelled to convert.<ref>{{cite book|last=Goodwin|first= Stefan |year=2002|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=up9Fy-NBiLAC&pg=PA31 |title=Malta, Mediterranean bridge|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906180235/https://books.google.com/books?id=up9Fy-NBiLAC&pg=PA31 |archive-date=6 September 2015 |publisher= Greenwood Publishing Group|page= 31|isbn=0-89789-820-6}}.</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Peregin, Christian |date=4 August 2008 |title=Maltese makeover |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080804/local/maltese-makeover |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101009093951/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080804/local/maltese-makeover |archive-date=9 October 2010 |access-date=28 November 2009 |website=The Times of Malta}}</ref>
The kingdom passed on to the ] from 1194 until 1266. During this period, when Frederick II of Hohenstaufen began to reorganise his Sicilian kingdom, Western culture and religion began to exert their influence more intensely.<ref>Blouet, B. (1987) The Story of Malta. Third Edition. Malta: Progress Press, p.37-38.</ref>
Malta formed part of the ] for 72 years. Malta was declared a county and a marquisate, but its trade was totally ruined. For a long time it remained solely a fortified ].<ref>
]. , W. H. Allen, 1843, p. 569
{{quote|Malta remained for 72 years subject of the emperors of Germany. The island was after the period of Count Roger of the Normans afterwards given up to the Germans, on account of the marriage between Constance, heiress of Sicily, and Henry VI, son of the Emperor Friedrick Barbarossa. Malta was elevated to a county and a marquisate, but its trade was now totally ruined, and for a considerable period of it remained solely a fortified garrison.
}}</ref> It was in 1224 under ] that all remaining Muslims (who were not Moors) were expelled from Malta<ref>{{cite news|url=
http://www.aboutmalta.com/history/time-Line.htm|publisher=AboutMalta.com|title=Time-Line|date=7 October 2007}}</ref> or impelled to convert<ref>
Stefan Goodwin. , Greenwood Publishing Group 2002. p. 31 ISBN 0897898206.
</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Christian Peregin |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080804/local/maltese-makeover |title=Maltese makeover |work=The Times|location=Malta |accessdate=2 August 2010}}</ref> and the entire Christian male population of ] in Abruzzo was deported to Malta.<ref name="malticross"/>


For a brief period the kingdom passed to the ], but high taxes made the dynasty unpopular in Malta, due in part to ]'s war against the ], and the island of ] was sacked in 1275.<ref name="malticross"/> A large revolt on Sicily known as the ] followed these attacks, that saw the Peninsula separating into the ]. For a brief period, the kingdom passed to the ],<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171017195224/http://melitensiawth.com/incoming/Index/Scientia%20(Malta)/Scientia.%2017(1951)4(Oct.-Dec.)/01.pdf |date=17 October 2017 }}. melitensiawth.com</ref> but high taxes made the dynasty unpopular in Malta, due in part to ]'s war against the Republic of Genoa, and the island of ] was sacked in 1275.<ref name="malticross" />


===Spanish Rule and the Knights of Malta=== ===Crown of Aragon, the Knights of Malta and Portuguese Rule===
{{See also|County of Sicily|Kingdom of Sicily|Crown of Aragon|History of Malta under the Order of Saint John|Great Siege of Malta}} {{See also|County of Sicily|Kingdom of Sicily|Crown of Aragon|Hospitaller Malta|Great Siege of Malta}}
]]] ]]]
Malta was ruled by the ], the ruling dynasty of the ], from 1282 to 1409,<ref name="culturalheritage.gov.mt">{{Cite web |title=Superintendance of Cultural Heritage |url=http://www.culturalheritage.gov.mt/textpage.asp?p=3107&l=1&v=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120128125711/http://www.culturalheritage.gov.mt/textpage.asp?p=3107&l=1&v=1 |archive-date=28 January 2012 |access-date=29 November 2011 |publisher=]}}</ref> with the Aragonese aiding the Maltese insurgents in the ] in ] in ] in 1283.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Luttrell |first=Anthony |year=1970 |title=The House of Aragon and Malta: 1282–1412 |url=http://melitensiawth.com/incoming/Index/Journal%20of%20the%20Faculty%20of%20Arts/Journal%20of%20the%20Faculty%20of%20Arts.%204(1970)2/08.pdf |journal=Journal of the Faculty of Arts |volume=4 |issue=2 |pages=156–168 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171017195743/http://melitensiawth.com/incoming/Index/Journal%20of%20the%20Faculty%20of%20Arts/Journal%20of%20the%20Faculty%20of%20Arts.%204(1970)2/08.pdf |archive-date=17 October 2017 |access-date=8 July 2017}}</ref>
Malta was ruled by a Spanish ] dynasty from 1282 to 1409.<ref name=culturalheritage.gov.mt>
{{cite web|title=Superintendance of Cultural Heritage|url=http://www.culturalheritage.gov.mt/textpage.asp?p=3107&l=1&v=1|publisher=]|accessdate=29 November 2011}}</ref>


Relatives of the ] ruled the island until 1409, when it formally passed to the ]. Early on in the Aragonese ascendancy, the sons of the monarchy received the title, "Count of Malta". During this time much of the local nobility was created. However, by 1397 the bearing of the title "Count of Malta" reverted to a feudal basis with two families fighting over the distinction, which caused some conflict. This led the ] to abolish the title. Dispute over the title returned when the title was reinstated a few years later and the Maltese, led by the local nobility, rose up against Count Gonsalvo Monroy.<ref name="malticross"/> Although they opposed the Count, the Maltese voiced their loyalty to the ], which so impressed ] that he did not punish the people for their rebellion. Instead, he promised never to grant the title to a third party, and incorporated it back into the crown. The city of ] was given the title of ''Città Notabile'' as a result of this sequence of events.<ref name="malticross"/> Relatives of the ] ruled the island until 1409 when it formally passed to the Crown of Aragon. Early on in the Aragonese ascendancy, the sons of the monarchs received the title ]. During this time much of the local nobility was created. By 1397, however, the bearing of the comital title reverted to a feudal basis, with two families fighting over the distinction. This led King ] to abolish the title. The dispute over the title returned when the title was reinstated a few years later and the Maltese, led by the local nobility, rose up against Count ].<ref name="malticross" /> Although they opposed the Count, the Maltese voiced their loyalty to the ], which so impressed ] that he did not punish the people for their rebellion. Instead, he promised never to grant the title to a third party and incorporated it back into the crown. The city of ] was given the title of ''Città Notabile''.<ref name="malticross" />


] built in the ] style]]
], the founder of ]]]
On 23 March 1530,<ref>Denaro, Victor F. (1963). {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160302135025/http://www.melitensiawth.com/incoming/Index/Melita%20Historica/MH.03(1960-63)/MH.3(1963)4/orig02.pdf |date=2 March 2016 }}. Melita Historica. p. 22.</ref> ], gave the islands to the ] under the leadership of Frenchman ],<ref>de Vertot, Abbe (1728) ''The History of the Knights of Malta'' vol. II (facsimile reprint Midsea Books, Malta, 1989).</ref><ref name="autogenerated2">{{Cite web |title=Malta History |url=http://www.jimdiamondmd.com/malta_history.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308000224/http://www.jimdiamondmd.com/malta_history.htm |archive-date=8 March 2012 |access-date=12 October 2008 |website=Jimdiamondmd.com}}</ref> in perpetual lease for which they had to pay an annual ].<ref name="autogenerated6">{{Cite web |title=Malta History 1000 AD–present |url=http://www.carnaval.com/malta/history/knights/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120204113517/http://www.carnaval.com/malta/history/knights/ |archive-date=4 February 2012 |access-date=12 October 2008 |website=Carnaval.com}}</ref><ref name="odonnel">{{Cite news |title=La cesión de Malta a los Caballeros de San Juan a través de la cédula del 4 de marzo de 1530 |website=orderofmalta.int |url=http://www.orderofmalta.int/wp-content/uploads/archive/pubblicazioni/La_cesion_de_Malta.pdf |access-date=12 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924074926/http://www.orderofmalta.int/wp-content/uploads/archive/pubblicazioni/La_cesion_de_Malta.pdf |archive-date=24 September 2015}}</ref><ref name="perez">{{Cite news |title=LA SOBERANA ORDEN DE MALTA A TRAVÉS DE DIEZ SIGLOS DE HISTORIA Y SU RELACIÓN CON LA ACCIÓN HUMANITARIA |website=uma.es |url=http://riuma.uma.es/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10630/4735/TESIS%20ORDEN%20DE%20MALTA%20%20A%20TRAV%C3%89S%20DE%20DIEZ%20SIGLOS.pdf?sequence=1 |access-date=12 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304023615/http://riuma.uma.es/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10630/4735/TESIS%20ORDEN%20DE%20MALTA%20%20A%20TRAV%C3%89S%20DE%20DIEZ%20SIGLOS.pdf?sequence=1 |archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref><ref name="elpais"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303224914/http://elpais.com/diario/2005/08/14/revistaverano/1123970413_850215.html |date=3 March 2016 }}. ''El Pais'' (14 August 2005). Retrieved 1 May 2017.</ref><ref name="tc1">{{Cite news |title=La verdadera historia del halcón maltés |url=http://www.trofeocaza.com/noticia/1154/Entrevistas/La-verdadera-historia-del-halcon-maltes.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160530023226/http://www.trofeocaza.com/noticia/1154/Entrevistas/La-verdadera-historia-del-halcon-maltes.html |archive-date=30 May 2016}}</ref><ref name="tc2">{{Cite news |date=22 October 2014 |title=El halcón y el mar |website=trofeocaza.com |url=http://www.trofeocaza.com/noticia/545/Reportajes/El-halcon-y-el-mar.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160530023233/http://www.trofeocaza.com/noticia/545/Reportajes/El-halcon-y-el-mar.html |archive-date=30 May 2016}}</ref><ref name="abc">{{Cite news |title=El Rey volverá a tener otro halcón maltés en primavera |url=http://www.abc.es/20111011/contraportada/abcp-ignacio-palomo-alvarez-volvera-20111011.html |url-status=live |access-date=12 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222084608/http://www.abc.es/20111011/contraportada/abcp-ignacio-palomo-alvarez-volvera-20111011.html |archive-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> These knights, a military religious order also known as the Order of St John and later as the Knights of Malta, had been driven out of ] by the ] in 1522.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hospitallers – religious order |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hospitallers |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801180607/https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hospitallers |archive-date=1 August 2017 |access-date=3 July 2017}}</ref>
] built in the ] style.]]
In 1530, ] gave the islands to the ] under the leadership of Frenchman ], ], in perpetual lease for which they had to pay an annual ]. These knights, a military religious order now known as the ], had been driven out of ] by the ] in 1522.


] ruled Malta and Gozo between 1530 and 1798.<ref name="Devrim. 2008">{{Cite book |last=Devrim. |first=Atauz, Ayse |title=Eight thousand years of Maltese maritime history: trade, piracy, and naval warfare in the central Mediterranean |date=2008 |publisher=University Press of Florida |isbn=978-0-8130-3179-8}}</ref> During this period, the strategic and military importance of the island grew greatly as the small yet efficient fleet of the ] launched their attacks from this new base targeting the shipping lanes of the Ottoman territories around the Mediterranean Sea.<ref name="Devrim. 2008" /><ref>{{Cite journal |last=McManamon |first=John |date=June 2003 |title=Maltese seafaring in mediaeval and post-mediaeval times |journal=Mediterranean Historical Review |volume=18 |issue=1 |pages=32–58 |doi=10.1080/09518960412331302203 |s2cid=153559318 |issn=0951-8967}}</ref>
In 1551, the population of the island of ] (around 5,000 people) were taken as slaves by ] and brought to the ] in present day ].


In 1551, the population of the island of ] (around 5,000 people) were enslaved by ] and taken to the ] in North Africa.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Niaz |first=Ilhan |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=aU4sAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA399 |title=Old World Empires: Cultures of Power and Governance in Eurasia |date=2014 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-317-91379-5 |page=399 |access-date=3 March 2019 |archive-date=18 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418064923/https://books.google.com/books?id=aU4sAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA399#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
The knights, led by Frenchman ], Grand Master of the Order, withstood a ] in 1565. The knights, with the help of the Maltese, were victorious, and speaking of the battle ] said, "Nothing is better known than the siege of Malta."<ref>{{cite book|author=Dennis Angelo Castillo|title=The Maltese Cross: A Strategic History of Malta|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=i5ns5LNtoiUC&pg=PA55|year=2006|publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group|isbn=978-0-313-32329-4|page=55}}</ref> After the siege they decided to increase Malta's ]s, particularly in the inner-harbour area, where the new city of ], named in honour of Valette, was built. They also established ]s along the coasts&nbsp;– the ], ] and ]&nbsp;– named after the Grand Masters who ordered the work. The Knights' presence on the island saw the completion of many architectural and cultural projects, including the embellishment of ], the construction of new cities including ] and ] and the introduction of new academic and social resources.


] on 21 August 1565]]
Approximately 11,000 people out of a population of 60,000 died of ] in 1675.<ref>Robert Montgomery Martin "''''" (1839). p. 574.</ref>
The knights, led by Frenchman ], withstood the ] by the Ottomans in 1565.<ref name=autogenerated2/> The knights, with the help of Portuguese, Spanish and Maltese forces, repelled the attack.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Angelo Castillo, Dennis |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i5ns5LNtoiUC&pg=PA55 |title=The Maltese Cross: A Strategic History of Malta |publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group |year=2006 |isbn=978-0-313-32329-4 |page=55 |access-date=1 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906192001/https://books.google.com/books?id=i5ns5LNtoiUC&pg=PA55 |archive-date=6 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Braudel, Fernand (1995) ''The Mediterranean and the Mediterranean World in the Age of Philip II'', vol. II. University of California Press: Berkeley.{{page}}</ref> After the siege they decided to increase Malta's ]s, particularly in the inner-harbour area, where the new city of ], named in honour of Valette, was built. They also established ]s along the coasts&nbsp;– the ], ] and ]&nbsp;– named after the Grand Masters who ordered the work. The Knights' presence on the island saw the completion of many architectural and cultural projects, including the embellishment of Città Vittoriosa (modern ]) and the construction of new cities including Città Rohan (modern ]). However, by the late 1700s the power of the Knights had declined and the Order had become unpopular.


===French period and British conquest===
]'', by ]. Oil on canvas, {{convert|361|x|520|cm|2|abbr=on|lk=out}}. Oratory of the ].]]
{{Main|French occupation of Malta|Siege of Malta (1798–1800)}}


] in Valletta]]
===Napoleon===
The Knights' reign ended when ] captured Malta on his way to ] during the ] in 1798. During 12–18 June 1798, Napoleon resided at the ] in Valletta.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Palazzo Parisio |url=https://foreignaffairs.gov.mt/en/Pages/Palazzo-Parisio.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180106024002/https://foreignaffairs.gov.mt/en/Pages/Palazzo-Parisio.aspx |archive-date=6 January 2018 |access-date=21 August 2015 |website=gov.mt}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Napoleon's bedroom at Palazzo Parisio in Valletta! |url=http://blog.maltaweathersite.com/2014/01/napoleons-bedroom-at-palazzo-parisio-in-valletta/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304195826/http://blog.maltaweathersite.com/2014/01/napoleons-bedroom-at-palazzo-parisio-in-valletta/ |archive-date=4 March 2016 |access-date=21 August 2015 |website=maltaweathersite.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Stagno-Navarra, Karl |date=24 January 2010 |title=Leaving it in neutral |url=http://archive.maltatoday.com.mt/2010/01/24/interview.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016010540/http://archive.maltatoday.com.mt/2010/01/24/interview.html |archive-date=16 October 2015 |access-date=21 August 2015 |website=MaltaToday}}</ref> He reformed national administration with the creation of a Government Commission, twelve municipalities, a public finance administration, the abolition of all feudal rights and privileges, the ] and the granting of freedom to all ] and ] slaves.<ref>{{Cite news |title=This day, May 15, in Jewish history |work=Cleveland Jewish News |url=http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/cjnconnect/blogs/article_057a78b4-3f44-5375-a20d-a850a62b2194.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519165352/http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/cjnconnect/blogs/article_057a78b4-3f44-5375-a20d-a850a62b2194.html |archive-date=19 May 2014}}</ref><ref name="stbenedict">{{Cite web |last=Sciberras |first=Sandro |title=Maltese History – F. The French Occupation |url=http://www.stbenedictcollege.org/stlucija/files/Sandro%20Sciberras/Form%203%20Option%20Maltese%20History/Unit%20F_%20Malta%20under%20the%20French%20+%20WS%2012p.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503090732/http://www.stbenedictcollege.org/stlucija/files/Sandro%20Sciberras/Form%203%20Option%20Maltese%20History/Unit%20F_%20Malta%20under%20the%20French%20+%20WS%2012p.pdf |archive-date=3 May 2015 |access-date=23 November 2014 |publisher=St Benedict College}}</ref> On the judicial level, a family code was framed and twelve judges were nominated. ] was organised along principles laid down by Bonaparte himself, providing for primary and secondary education.<ref name=stbenedict/><ref>{{Cite web |last=Weider |first=Ben |author-link=Ben Weider |title=Chapter 12 – The Egyptian Campaign of 1798 |url=http://www.napoleonicsociety.com/english/Life_Nap_Chap12.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312073211/http://www.napoleonicsociety.com/english/Life_Nap_Chap12.htm |archive-date=12 March 2016 |website=International Napoleonic Society}}</ref> He then sailed for Egypt, leaving a substantial garrison in Malta.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Shosenberg |first=J.W. |date=April 2017 |title=NAPOLÉON'S EGYPTIAN RIDDLE |journal=Military History |volume=34 |issue=1 |page=25 |via=Ebsco}}</ref>
{{See also|French occupation of Malta}}


The French forces left behind became unpopular with the Maltese, due particularly to the French forces' hostility towards Catholicism and pillaging of local churches to fund war efforts. French financial and religious policies so angered the Maltese that they rebelled, forcing the French to depart. Great Britain, along with the ] and the ], sent ammunition and aid to the Maltese, and Britain also sent ], which blockaded the islands.<ref name=stbenedict/>
The Knights' reign ended when ] captured Malta on his way to ] during the ] in 1798. Over the years preceding Napoleon's capture of the islands, the power of the Knights had declined and the Order had became unpopular. This was around the time when the universal values of freedom and liberty were incarnated by the ]. People from both inside the Order and outside appealed to ] to oust the Knights. Napoleon Bonaparte did not hesitate. His fleet arrived in 1798, en route to his expedition of Egypt. As a ruse towards the Knights, Napoleon asked for safe harbour to resupply his ships, and then turned his guns against his hosts once safely inside Valletta. Grand Master ] capitulated, and Napoleon entered Malta.


On 28 October 1798, Captain Sir ] successfully completed negotiations with the French garrison on Gozo for a surrender and transfer of the island to the British. The British transferred the island to the locals that day, and it was administered by Archpriest ] on behalf of ]. ] until Cassar was removed by the British in 1801.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Schiavone |first=Michael J. |title=Dictionary of Maltese Biographies A-F |date=2009 |publisher=Publikazzjonijiet Indipendenza |isbn=978-99932-91-32-9 |pages=533–534}}</ref>
During a six-day stay on the island, Napoleon reformed national administration with the creation of a Government Commission, twelve municipalities, a public finance administration, the abolition of all feudal rights and privileges, the ] and the granting of freedom to all Turkish and Jewish slaves.<ref>{{cite web|title=This day, May 15, in Jewish history|url=http://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/cjnconnect/blogs/article_057a78b4-3f44-5375-a20d-a850a62b2194.html|publisher=Cleveland Jewish News}}</ref> On the judicial level, a family code was framed and twelve judges were nominated. ] was organised along principles laid down by Bonaparte himself, providing for primary and secondary education. He then sailed for Egypt leaving a substantial garrison in Malta.


General ] surrendered his French forces in 1800.<ref name= stbenedict/> Maltese leaders presented the main island to Sir Alexander Ball, asking that the island become a British ]. The Maltese people created a ] in which they agreed to come "under the protection and sovereignty of the King of the free people, His Majesty the King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland". The Declaration also stated that "his Majesty has no right to cede these Islands to any power...if he chooses to withdraw his protection, and abandon his sovereignty, the right of electing another sovereign, or of the governing of these Islands, belongs to us, the inhabitants and aborigines alone, and without control."<ref name="stbenedict" /><ref name="1940-43">{{Cite book |last=Holland |first=James |url=https://archive.org/details/fortressmaltaisl00holl |title=Fortress Malta An Island Under Siege 1940–43 |publisher=Miramax |year=2003 |isbn=978-1-4013-5186-1}}</ref>
The French forces left behind became unpopular with the Maltese, due particularly to the French forces' hostility towards Catholicism and pillaging of local churches to fund Napoleon's war efforts. French financial and religious policies so angered the Maltese that they rebelled, forcing the French to depart. Great Britain, along with the ] and the ], sent ammunition and aid to the Maltese and Britain also sent ], which blockaded the islands.

General ] surrendered his French forces in 1800. Maltese leaders presented the island to Sir ], asking that the island become a British ]. The Maltese people created a Declaration of Rights in which they agreed to come "under the protection and sovereignty of the King of the free people, His Majesty the King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland". The Declaration also stated that "his Majesty has no right to cede these Islands to any power...if he chooses to withdraw his protection, and abandon his sovereignty, the right of electing another sovereign, or of the governing of these Islands, belongs to us, the inhabitants and aborigines alone, and without control."<ref>{{cite book|last=Holland|first=James|title=Fortress Malta: An Island Under Siege, 1940–1943|publisher=Miramax Books|year=2003|isbn=1-4013-5186-7}}</ref>


===British Empire and the Second World War=== ===British Empire and the Second World War===
{{Main|Malta Protectorate|Crown Colony of Malta|Siege of Malta (World War II)}} {{Main|Malta Protectorate|Crown Colony of Malta|Siege of Malta (World War II)}}
] during the ], 1942.]]
In 1814, as part of the ],<ref name="DIC_11">{{Harvnb|Rudolf & Berg|2010|p=11}}</ref> Malta officially became a part of the ] and was used as a shipping way-station and fleet headquarters. After the ] opened in 1869, Malta's position halfway between the ] and Egypt proved to be its main asset and it was considered an important stop on the way to India. This was an important trade route for the British and thus, the Maltese people took great advantage of this alliance as several culinary and botanical products were introduced in Malta; some examples (derived from the National Book of Trade Customs found in the National Library) include the entry of wheat (for bread making) and bacon. In 1919 British troops fired on a rally protesting against new taxes, killing four Maltese men. The event, known as ] (Italian for ''7 June''), is commemorated every year and is one of five National Days.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Malta| title=Malta definition of Malta in the Free Online Encyclopedia.| work=Free Online Encyclopedia – List of Legal Holidays| accessdate=8 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2013-06/sette-giugno-6533| title=SETTE GIUGNO | work=Visitmalta – The official tourism website for Malta, Gozo and Comino| accessdate=8 July 2013}}</ref>


], 1942]]
In the early 1930s the British ], which was at that time the main contributor to commerce on the island, moved to ] as an economic measure and to be out of range of Italian bombers.{{Citation needed|date=January 2011}}
In 1814, as part of the ],<ref name="stbenedict" /><ref name="DIC_11">{{Harvnb|Rudolf|Berg|2010|p=11}}</ref> Malta officially became a part of the British Empire and was used as a shipping way-station and fleet headquarters. After the ] opened in 1869, Malta's position halfway between the ] and Egypt proved to be its main asset, and it was considered an important stop on the way to India, a central trade route for the British.


A ] was commissioned by ] and built between 1873 and 1874 for the fallen Ottoman soldiers of the ].
During World War II, Malta played an important role owing to its proximity to ] shipping lanes. The bravery of the Maltese people during the second ] moved ] to award the ] to Malta on a collective basis on 15 April 1942 "to bear witness to a heroism and devotion that will long be famous in history". Some historians argue that the award caused Britain to incur disproportionate losses in defending Malta, as British credibility would have suffered if Malta surrendered, ].<ref>{{cite web|title=The Siege of Malta in World War Two |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/siege_malta_06.shtml|accessdate=15 April 2007}}</ref> A depiction of the George Cross now appears in the upper hoist corner of the ]. The collective award remained unique until April 1999, when the ] became the second{{spaced ndash}}and, to date, the only other{{spaced ndash}}recipient of a collective George Cross.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/533170.stm|title=RUC awarded George Cross |date=23 November 1999|publisher=BBC News |accessdate=21 June 2011}}</ref>

Between 1915 and 1918, during the ], Malta became known as ''the Nurse of the Mediterranean'' due to the large number of wounded soldiers who were accommodated there.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Galea |first=Michael |date=16 November 2014 |title=Malta earns the title 'nurse of the Mediterranean' |work=] |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141116/life-features/Malta-earns-the-title-nurse-of-the-Mediterranean-.544455 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206134215/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141116/life-features/Malta-earns-the-title-nurse-of-the-Mediterranean-.544455 |archive-date=6 February 2016}}</ref> In 1919, British troops fired into a crowd protesting against new taxes, killing four. The event, known as ] ("7 June"), is commemorated every year and is one of five National Days.<ref>{{Cite encyclopedia |title=Malta definition of Malta in the Free Online Encyclopedia. |encyclopedia=Free Online Encyclopedia – List of Legal Holidays |url=http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Malta |access-date=8 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130617220624/http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Malta |archive-date=17 June 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=SETTE GIUGNO |url=http://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2013-06/sette-giugno-6533 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140130231035/http://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2013-06/sette-giugno-6533 |archive-date=30 January 2014 |access-date=8 July 2013 |website=Visitmalta – The official tourism website for Malta, Gozo and Comino }}</ref> Until the ], Maltese politics was dominated by the ] fought out by ] and ] parties.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Independence |url=http://www.maltavoyager.com/history_independence.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120906002153/http://www.maltavoyager.com/history_independence.html |archive-date=6 September 2012}}</ref>

Before the Second World War, Valletta was the location of the Royal Navy's Mediterranean fleet headquarters; however, despite ]'s objections,<ref name="BJandCS-p36">{{Cite book |last1=Bierman, John |url=https://archive.org/details/battleofalameint00bier/page/36 |title=The Battle of Alamein: Turning Point, World War II |last2=Smith, Colin |publisher=Viking |year=2002 |isbn=978-0-670-03040-8 |page=}}</ref> the command was moved to ], Egypt, in 1937 out of fear that it was too susceptible to air attacks from Europe.<ref name=BJandCS-p36/><ref>{{Cite book |last=Titterton, G. A. |title=The Royal Navy and the Mediterranean, Volume 2 |publisher=Psychology Press |year=2002 |isbn=978-0-7146-5179-8 |page=xiii}}</ref><ref name="ElliottP--pxx">{{Cite book |last=Elliott, Peter |title=The Cross and the Ensign: A Naval History of Malta, 1798–1979 |publisher=Naval Institute Press |year=1980 |isbn=978-0-87021-926-9}}</ref> During the war Malta played an important role for the ]; being a British colony, situated close to Sicily and the ] shipping lanes, Malta was bombarded by the Italian and German air forces. Malta was used by the British to launch attacks on the Italian Navy and had a submarine base. It was also used as a listening post, intercepting German radio messages including ] traffic.<ref name="CP-p42-44">{{Cite book |last=Calvocoressi, Peter |title=Top Secret Ultra – Volume 10 of Ballantine Espionage Intelligence Library |publisher=Ballantine Books |year=1981 |isbn=978-0-345-30069-0 |edition=reprint |pages=42, 44}}</ref> The bravery of the Maltese people during the second ] moved ] to ] on a collective basis on 15 April 1942. Some historians argue that the award caused Britain to incur disproportionate losses in defending Malta, as British credibility would have suffered if Malta had surrendered, ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Siege of Malta in World War Two |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/siege_malta_06.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071229015847/http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/siege_malta_06.shtml |archive-date=29 December 2007 |access-date=15 April 2007}}</ref> A depiction of the George Cross now appears on the ] and the country's ].


===Independence and Republic=== ===Independence and Republic===
{{see also|State of Malta}} {{see also|State of Malta}}
] in 2007.]] ]]]
] in 2007.]]
Malta achieved its independence on 21 September 1964 (]) after intense negotiations with the United Kingdom, led by Maltese Prime Minister ]. Under its 1964 constitution, Malta initially retained Queen ] as ] and thus ], with a ] exercising executive authority on her behalf. In 1971, the ] led by ] won the General Elections, resulting in Malta declaring itself a republic on 13 December 1974 (]) within the ], with the ] as ]. A defence agreement signed soon after independence (and re-negotiated in 1972) expired on 31 March 1979.


Malta achieved its independence as the ] on 21 September 1964 (]). Under its 1964 constitution, Malta initially retained ] as ] and thus head of state, with a ] exercising executive authority on her behalf. In 1971, the ] led by ] won the general elections, resulting in Malta declaring itself a republic on 13 December 1974 (]) within the ]. A defence agreement was signed soon after independence, and after being re-negotiated in 1972, expired on 31 March 1979 (]).<ref>{{Cite book |last=Wolf |first=Eric R. |title=Religion, Power and Protest in Local Communities: The Northern Shore of the Mediterranean |date=1984 |isbn=978-3-11-086116-7 |page=206|publisher=Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG }}</ref> Upon its expiry, the British base closed and lands formerly controlled by the British were given to the Maltese government.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Fenech |first=Dominic |date=February 1997 |title=Malta's external security |journal=GeoJournal |volume=41 |issue=2 |pages=153–163 |doi=10.1023/A:1006888926016 |bibcode=1997GeoJo..41..153F |s2cid=151123282 }}</ref>
Malta adopted a policy of ] in 1980.<ref>{{cite book|last=Breacher|first=Michael|title=A Study of Crisis|publisher=University of Michigan Press|year=1997|page=611|isbn=9780472108060}}</ref> In 1989, Malta was the venue of a ] between US President ] and Soviet leader ], their first face-to-face encounter, which signalled the end of the ].<ref>{{cite web|title=1989: Malta summit ends Cold War|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/december/3/newsid_4119000/4119950.stm|work=BBC: On This Day|date=3 December 1989|accessdate=1 October 2014}}</ref>


In the aftermath of the departure of the remaining British troops in 1979, the country intensified ]. Malta adopted a policy of ] in 1980.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Breacher |first=Michael |title=A Study of Crisis |publisher=University of Michigan Press |year=1997 |isbn=978-0-472-10806-0 |page=611}}</ref> In that same year, three of Malta's sites, including the capital ], were inscribed on the ]. In 1989, Malta was the venue of a ] between US President ] and Soviet leader ], their first face-to-face encounter, which signalled the end of the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=3 December 1989 |title=1989: Malta summit ends Cold War |work=BBC: On This Day |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/december/3/newsid_4119000/4119950.stm |url-status=live |access-date=1 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181003190017/http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/december/3/newsid_4119000/4119950.stm |archive-date=3 October 2018}}</ref> ] was inaugurated and became fully operational on 25 March 1992, boosting the local aircraft and tourism industry. A ] was held on 8 March 2003, with 53.65% in favour.<ref>{{Cite news |date=9 March 2003 |title=Malta votes 'yes' to EU membership |publisher=CNN |url=http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/europe/03/09/malta.yes/ |access-date=1 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030313220750/http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/europe/03/09/malta.yes/ |archive-date=13 March 2003}}</ref> Malta joined the ] on 1 May 2004<ref>{{Cite web |title=The History of the European Union&nbsp;– 2000–today |url=http://europa.eu/abc/history/2000_today/index_en.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011051104/http://europa.eu/abc/history/2000_today/index_en.htm |archive-date=11 October 2007 |access-date=12 October 2007}}</ref> and the ] on 1 January 2008.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 May 2007 |title=Cyprus and Malta set to join eurozone in 2008 |url=http://www.euractiv.com/en/euro/cyprus-malta-set-join-eurozone-2008/article-163836 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090130041939/http://www.euractiv.com/en/euro/cyprus-malta-set-join-eurozone-2008/article-163836 |archive-date=30 January 2009 |access-date=12 October 2007|work=Euractiv}}</ref>
On 16 July 1990, Malta, through its foreign minister, ], applied to join the European Union.<ref>{{cite news|last=Grima|first=Noel|title=Retaining Guido De Marco’s Euro-Mediterranean vision|url=http://www.independent.com.mt/mobile/2011-10-02/news/retaining-guido-de-marcos-euro-mediterranean-vision-299521/|work=The Malta Independent|publisher=Standard Publications Ltd.|date=2 October 2011|accessdate=1 October 2014}}</ref> After tough negotiations, a referendum was held on 8 March 2003, which resulted in a favourable vote.<ref>{{cite web|title=Malta votes 'yes' to EU membership|url=http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/europe/03/09/malta.yes/|publisher=CNN|date=9 March 2003|accessdate=1 October 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20030313220750/http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/europe/03/09/malta.yes/|archivedate=13 March 2003}}</ref> General Elections held on 12 April 2003, gave a clear mandate to the Prime Minister, ], to sign the Treaty of accession to the European Union on 16 April 2003 in ], Greece.<ref>{{cite news|last=Borg|first=Annaliza|title=10 years ago: Malta signs EU accession treaty|url=http://www.independent.com.mt/mobile/2013-04-17/news/10-years-ago-malta-signs-eu-accession-treaty-annaliza-borg-1409777665/|work=The Malta Independent|publisher=Standard Publications Ltd.|date=17 April 2013|accessdate=1 October 2014}}</ref>

Malta joined the ] on 1 May 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://europa.eu/abc/history/2000_today/index_en.htm|title=The History of the European Union&nbsp;– 2000–today|accessdate=12 October 2007}}{{dead link|date=October 2013}}</ref> Following the European Council of 21–22 June 2007, Malta joined the ] on 1 January 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.euractiv.com/en/euro/cyprus-malta-set-join-eurozone-2008/article-163836|title=Cyprus and Malta set to join eurozone in 2008|date=16 May 2007|accessdate=12 October 2007}}</ref>


==Politics== ==Politics==
{{Main|Politics of Malta|Government of Malta|Law of Malta|Foreign relations of Malta}}
].]]
{{multiple image
{{Main|Politics of Malta|Government of Malta|Law of Malta}}
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Malta is a republic<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.legal-malta.com/law/constitution-1.htm|title=Chapter 1 / The Republic of Malta / Maltese Constitution|work=Constitution of Malta Act, 1964|accessdate=12 October 2007}}</ref> whose ] and ] are closely modelled on the ]. Malta had the second-highest ] in the world (and the highest for nations without ]), based on election turnout in national ] elections from 1960 to 1995.<ref>Mark N. Franklin. "Electoral Participation." in ''Controversies in Voting Behavior''</ref> The ] ], (Maltese: ''Kamra tad-Deputati''), is elected by direct universal suffrage through ] every five years, unless the House is dissolved earlier by the ] on advice of the ].
| direction = horizontal
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| image1 =
| width1 = 160
| caption1 = ]<br />]<br />since 4 April 2024
| image2 = Robert Abela - Official Portrait 2022 (cropped).jpg
| width2 = 160
| caption2 = ]<br />]<br />since 13 January 2020
}}
] in Valletta]]
Malta is a republic<ref name="constitution" /> whose ] and ] are closely modelled on the ]. The ] parliament is made up of the ] and the ] ({{langx|mt|Kamra tad-Deputati}}).


The House of Representatives has 65 members, elected for a five-year term in 13 five-seat electoral divisions, called {{lang|mt|distretti elettorali}}, with constitutional amendments that allow for mechanisms to establish strict proportionality amongst seats and votes of political parliamentary groups. Members of the House of Representatives are elected by direct universal suffrage through ] every five years, unless the House is dissolved earlier by the president either on the advice of the ] or through a motion of no confidence. Malta had the second-highest ] in the world (and the highest for nations without ]), based on election turnout in national ] elections from 1960 to 1995.<ref>Mark N. Franklin. "Electoral Participation." in ''Controversies in Voting Behavior''</ref>
The House of Representatives is made up of 69 members of parliament. However, where a party wins an absolute majority of votes, but does not have a majority of seats, that party is given additional seats to ensure a parliamentary majority. The ] provides that the president appoint as prime minister the member of the House who is best able to command a (governing) majority in the House.


The ] is appointed for a five-year term by a resolution of the House of Representatives carried by a simple majority. The role of the president as head of state is largely ceremonial. The main political parties are the ], which is a ] party, and the ], which is a ] party. The Labour Party is currently at the helm of the government, the Prime Minister being ]. The Nationalist Party, with ] as its leader, is in opposition. There are a number of smaller political parties in Malta that presently have no parliamentary representation. The president of Malta, a largely ceremonial position, is appointed for a five-year term by a resolution of the House of Representatives carried by a simple majority. The president is the head of state. The current president of the republic is ], who was elected on 27 March 2024, by members of parliament in an ].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Magri |first1=Giulia |title=Parliament unanimously approves Myriam Spiteri Debono as Malta's next President |url=https://timesofmalta.com/article/parliament-approves-myriam-spiteri-debono-malta-next-president.1089991 |access-date=31 March 2024 |work=Times of Malta |date=27 March 2024}}</ref> The 80th article of the ] provides that the president appoint as prime minister "the member of the House of Representatives who, in his judgment, is best able to command the support of a majority of the members of that House".<ref name="constitution" />


Maltese politics is a ] dominated by the ] ({{langx|mt|Partit Laburista}}), a centre-left ] party, and the ] ({{langx|mt|Partit Nazzjonalista}}), a centre-right ] party. The Labour Party has been the governing party since 2013 and is currently led by Prime Minister ], who has been in office since 13 January 2020. There are a number of small political parties in Malta which have no parliamentary representation.
Until ], Maltese politics was dominated by the ] fought out by ] and ] parties.<ref> at www.maltavoyager.com</ref> Post-War politics dealt with constitutional questions on the relations with Britain (first with ] then ]) and, eventually, relations with the ].


===Administrative divisions=== ===Administrative divisions===
{{Main|Local councils of Malta}} {{Main|Local councils of Malta|Districts of Malta|Regions of Malta}}
] of Malta]]

] of Malta.]]


Malta has had a system of local government since 1993,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maltadata.com/loc-act.pdf |title=Local Council Act of Malta |format=PDF |accessdate=20 October 2013}}</ref> based on the ]. The country is divided into ], with each region having its own Regional Committee, serving as the intermediate level between local government and national government.<ref>{{mt icon}} {{cite book|title=Protokol Lokali u Reġjonali|publisher=Dipartiment tal-Informazzjoni|location=]|pages=5-6|url=http://www.lc.gov.mt/mediacenter/PDFs/1_Protocol.revised.pdf|accessdate=2 April 2015}}</ref> The regions are divided into ]s, of which there are currently 68 (54 in Malta and 14 in ]). Sixteen "hamlets", which form part of larger councils, have their own Administrative Committee. The ] (five on the main island) serve primarily statistical purposes.<ref>{{cite web|title=Malta|url=http://www.aer.eu/fileadmin/user_upload/MainIssues/Regional_Democracy/AER_Regionalism_Report/Report_by_country/MALTA_2010.pdf|publisher=]|accessdate=2 April 2015}}</ref> Malta has had a system of local government since 1993,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Local Council Act of Malta |url=http://www.maltadata.com/loc-act.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616004627/http://www.maltadata.com/loc-act.pdf |archive-date=16 June 2013 |access-date=20 October 2013}}</ref> based on the ]. The country is divided into ] (one of them being Gozo), with each region having its own Regional Council, serving as the intermediate level between local government and national government.<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://www.lc.gov.mt/mediacenter/PDFs/1_Protocol.revised.pdf |title=Protokol Lokali u Reġjonali |publisher=Dipartiment tal-Informazzjoni|pages=5–6 |language=mt |access-date=2 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120617100535/http://www.lc.gov.mt/mediacenter/PDFs/1_Protocol.revised.pdf |archive-date=17 June 2012 }}</ref> The regions are divided into ], of which there are currently 68 (54 in Malta and 14 in ]). The ] (five on Malta and the sixth being Gozo) serve primarily statistical purposes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta |url=http://www.aer.eu/fileadmin/user_upload/MainIssues/Regional_Democracy/AER_Regionalism_Report/Report_by_country/MALTA_2010.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208122702/http://www.aer.eu/fileadmin/user_upload/MainIssues/Regional_Democracy/AER_Regionalism_Report/Report_by_country/MALTA_2010.pdf |archive-date=8 February 2013 |access-date=2 April 2015 |publisher=]}}</ref>


Each council is made up of a number of councillors (from 5 to 13, depending on and relative to the population they represent). A mayor and a ] are elected by and from the councillors. The executive secretary, who is appointed by the council, is the executive, administrative and financial head of the council. Councillors are elected every four years through the ]. People who are eligible to vote in the election of the Maltese ] as well as resident ] are eligible to vote. Due to system reforms, no elections were held before 2012. Since then, elections have been held every two years for an alternating half of the councils. Each council is made up of a number of councillors (from 5 to 13, depending on and relative to the population they represent). A mayor and a deputy mayor are elected by and from the councillors. The executive secretary, who is appointed by the council, is the executive, administrative and financial head of the council. Councillors are elected every four years through the single transferable vote. Due to system reforms, no elections were held before 2012. Since then, elections have been held every two years for an alternating half of the councils.


Local councils are responsible for the general upkeep and embellishment of the locality (including repairs to non-arterial roads), allocation of local wardens and refuse collection; they also carry out general administrative duties for the central government such as collection of government rents and funds and answer government-related public inquiries. Local councils are responsible for the general upkeep and embellishment of the locality (including repairs to non-arterial roads), allocation of local wardens, and refuse collection; they also carry out general administrative duties for the central government such as the collection of government rents and funds and answer government-related public inquiries. Additionally, a number of individual towns and villages in the Republic of Malta have ].


===Armed forces=== ===Military===
{{Main|Armed Forces of Malta}} {{Main|Armed Forces of Malta}}
] of the ].]]


], ]]]
The objectives of the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) are to maintain a military organisation with the primary aim of defending the islands' integrity according to the defence roles as set by the government in an efficient and cost-effective manner. This is achieved by emphasising the maintenance of Malta's territorial waters and airspace integrity.
The objectives of the ] (AFM) are to maintain a military organisation with the primary aim of defending the islands' integrity according to the defence roles as set by the government in an efficient and cost-effective manner. This is achieved by emphasising the maintenance of Malta's territorial waters and airspace integrity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Defence Roles |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/forcestructure/Pages/Defence-Roles.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190508010819/https://afm.gov.mt/en/forcestructure/Pages/Defence-Roles.aspx |archive-date=8 May 2019 |website=Afm.gov.mt}}</ref>


The AFM also engages in combating terrorism, fighting against illicit drug trafficking, conducting anti-illegal immigrant operations and patrols and anti-illegal fishing operations, operating ] (SAR) services, and physical/electronic security/surveillance of sensitive locations. Malta's search-and-rescue area extends from east of ] to west of ], covering an area of around 250,000&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup>. The AFM also engages in combating terrorism, fighting against illicit drug trafficking, conducting anti-illegal immigrant operations and patrols, and anti-illegal fishing operations, operating ] (SAR) services, and physical or electronic security and surveillance of sensitive locations. Malta's search-and-rescue area extends from east of ] to west of ], an area of around {{cvt|250000|km2}}.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190508004339/https://afm.gov.mt/en/operationsanddeployments/national/Pages/Operations-Centre.aspx |date=8 May 2019 }}. Afm.gov.mt. Retrieved 28 December 2019</ref>


As a military organisation, the AFM provides backup support to the ] (MPF) and other government departments/agencies in situations as required in an organised, disciplined manner in the event of national emergencies (such as natural disasters) or internal security and bomb disposal. As a military organisation, the AFM provides backup support to the ] (MPF) and other government departments/agencies in situations as required in an organised, disciplined manner in the event of national emergencies (such as natural disasters) or internal security and bomb disposal.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Armed Forces of Malta |url=http://afm.gov.mt/en/Pages/AFM.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161126145312/http://afm.gov.mt/en/Pages/AFM.aspx |archive-date=26 November 2016 |website=Afm.gov.mt}}</ref>


In 2020, Malta signed and ratified the UN ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chapter XXVI: Disarmament&nbsp;– No. 9 Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons |url=https://treaties.un.org/Pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=XXVI-9&chapter=26&clang=_en |publisher=United Nations Treaty Collection |access-date=30 October 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190806220546/https://treaties.un.org/Pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=XXVI-9&chapter=26&clang=_en |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=21 September 2020 |title=Nuclear arms prohibition treaty ratified by foreign minister |work=Malta Today |url=https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/104847/nuclear_arms_prohibition_treaty_ratified_by_foreign_minister |access-date=30 October 2020 |archive-date=3 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201103124622/https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/104847/nuclear_arms_prohibition_treaty_ratified_by_foreign_minister |url-status=live }}</ref>
On another level, the AFM establishes and/or consolidates ] with other countries to reach higher operational effectiveness related to AFM roles.

===Human rights===
{{See also|LGBT rights in Malta|Human rights in Malta}}
Malta is regarded as one of the most ]-supportive countries in the world,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/57877/malta_ranked_first_in_european_rainbow_map_of_lgbtiq_rights|title=Malta ranks first in European 'rainbow map' of LGBTIQ rights|work=MaltaToday.com.mt|access-date=3 August 2023|archive-date=9 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151009221030/http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/57877/malta_ranked_first_in_european_rainbow_map_of_lgbtiq_rights|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2017-09-27/local-news/UN-equality-head-praises-Malta-as-beacon-of-human-rights-for-LGBTIQ-issues-6736179515|date=27 September 2017|title=UN equality head praises Malta as 'beacon of human rights for LGBTIQ issues'|website=The Malta Independent|access-date=2 October 2017|archive-date=29 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170929044521/http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2017-09-27/local-news/UN-equality-head-praises-Malta-as-beacon-of-human-rights-for-LGBTIQ-issues-6736179515|url-status=live}}</ref> and was the first nation in the ] to prohibit ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Benjamin|first=Butterworth|title=Malta just became the first country in Europe to ban 'gay cure' therapy|url=http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2016/12/06/malta-just-became-the-first-country-in-europe-to-ban-gay-cure-therapy/|newspaper=]|date=6 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161206160701/http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2016/12/06/malta-just-became-the-first-country-in-europe-to-ban-gay-cure-therapy/|archive-date=6 December 2016}}</ref> Malta also constitutionally bans discrimination based on disability.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8879&l=1 |title=Equal Opportunities (Persons with Disability) Act (Cap. 413) |publisher=] |access-date=2019-05-31 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150418073347/http://justiceservices.gov.mt:80/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=8879&l=1 |archive-date=Apr 18, 2015 }}</ref>
Maltese legislation recognises both civil and canonical (ecclesiastical) marriages. Annulments by the ecclesiastical and civil courts are unrelated and are not necessarily mutually endorsed. Malta voted in favour of divorce legislation in ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=29 May 2011 |title=Malta votes 'Yes' in divorce referendum |work=] |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13588834 |url-status=live |access-date=1 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110601223233/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13588834 |archive-date=1 June 2011}}</ref>

] is illegal. It and ] are the only European Union members with near-total bans on the procedure. There are no exceptions for ] or ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=12 August 2022 |title=Malta: The only EU country where abortion is illegal leaves women scared |work=] |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-62479624 |first1=Jessica |last1=Parker |first2=Sira |last2=Thierij |access-date=2 October 2022 |archive-date=2 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221002235747/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-62479624 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 21 November 2022, the government led by the Labour Party proposed a bill that "introduces a new clause into the country's criminal code allowing for the termination of a pregnancy if the mother's life is at risk or if her health is in serious jeopardy".<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 November 2022 |title=Malta proposes bill to ease EU's strictest anti-abortion law |url=https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-religion-europe-malta-4a20fcad6313c1414a843dbbb364e726 |author=Kevin Schembri Orland |access-date=22 November 2022 |website=AP NEWS |language=en |archive-date=21 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221121220924/https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-religion-europe-malta-4a20fcad6313c1414a843dbbb364e726 |url-status=live }}</ref> As of 2023, an exception was added to allow abortion only if the mother's life is at risk.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-06-28 |title=Malta to allow abortion but only when woman's life is at risk |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/28/malta-to-allow-abortion-but-only-when-womans-life-is-at-risk |access-date=2024-02-09 |work=] |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}</ref>


==Geography== ==Geography==
{{Main|Geography of Malta}} {{Main|Geography of Malta}}
] ]
]


Malta is an ] in the central ] (in its eastern basin), some {{convert|80|km|0|abbr=on}} south of the Italian island of ] across the ]. Only the three largest islands&nbsp;– ] (Malta), ] (Għawdex) and ] (Kemmuna)&nbsp;– are inhabited. The smaller islands (see below) are uninhabited. The islands of the archipelago lie on the Malta plateau, a shallow shelf formed from the high points of a ] between Sicily and North Africa that became isolated as sea levels rose after the last ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.reading.ac.uk/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.aspx?lID=12783|title=Island Landscape Dynamics: Examples from the Mediterranean|accessdate=20 December 2011}}</ref> The archipelago is therefore situated in the zone between the Eurasian and African tectonic plates.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://earth.geology.yale.edu/RETREAT/maps/Mediterranean%20map2001sheet1%20tectonics&kinematics.jpg|title=Geodynamic Map of the Mediterranean|author=Commission for the Geological Map of the World|accessdate=28 November 2008}}{{dead link|date=October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gerom.org/page.asp?ID=7|title=Geothermal Engineering Research Office Malta}}</ref> Malta is an ] in the central Mediterranean (in its ]), some {{convert|80|km|0|abbr=on}} from southern Italy across the ]. Only the three largest islands—] ({{langx|mt|Malta|links=no}}), ] ({{lang|mt|Għawdex}}), and ] ({{lang|mt|Kemmuna}})—are inhabited. The islands of the archipelago lie on the Malta plateau, a shallow shelf formed from the high points of a ] between Sicily and North Africa that became isolated as sea levels rose after the ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Island Landscape Dynamics: Examples from the Mediterranean |url=http://www.reading.ac.uk/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.aspx?lID=12783 |access-date=20 December 2011 |archive-date=Sep 26, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120926003836/http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/geog/GP183_Island_Landscapes_AMMINV_1Aa.pdf |first1=A.M. |last1=Mannion |first2=I.N. |last2=Vogiatzakis |date=August 2007 |website=University of Reading }}</ref> The archipelago is located on the ].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Commission for the Geological Map of the World |title=Geodynamic Map of the Mediterranean |url=http://earth.geology.yale.edu/RETREAT/maps/Mediterranean%20map2001sheet1%20tectonics&kinematics.jpg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081217180807/http://earth.geology.yale.edu/RETREAT/maps/Mediterranean%20map2001sheet1%20tectonics%26kinematics.jpg |archive-date=17 December 2008 |access-date=28 November 2008}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Geothermal Engineering Research Office Malta |url=http://gerom.org/page.asp?ID=7 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404163225/http://gerom.org/page.asp?ID=7 |archive-date=4 April 2016}}</ref> Malta was considered an island of North Africa for centuries.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Falconer |first1=William |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=B3Q29kWRdtgC&pg=PA50 |title=Dissertation on St. Paul's Voyage |last2=Falconer |first2=Thomas |date=1872 |publisher=BiblioLife |isbn=978-1-113-68809-5 |page=50 |access-date=23 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170327020614/https://books.google.com/books?id=B3Q29kWRdtgC&pg=PA50 |archive-date=27 March 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> The seabed surrounding Malta's islands retains traces of ancient geomarine features, suggesting potential archaeological discoveries that could shed light on the region's prehistoric environment. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Where Is Malta? {{!}} World Map, Facts, People & History of Malta |url=https://www.maltainfoguide.com/where-is-malta.html |access-date=2024-11-17 |website=Malta Info Guide |language=en}}</ref>


Numerous bays along the indented coastline of the islands provide good harbours. The landscape consists of low hills with terraced fields. The highest point in Malta is ], at {{convert|253|m|ft|abbr=on}}, near ]. Although there are some small rivers at times of high rainfall, there are no permanent rivers or lakes on Malta. However, some watercourses have fresh water running all year round at ] near ], at l-Imtaħleb and San Martin, and at Lunzjata Valley in Gozo. Numerous bays along the indented coastline of the islands provide good harbours. The landscape consists of low hills with terraced fields. The highest point in Malta is ], at {{convert|253|m|ft|abbr=on}}, near ]. Although there are some small rivers at times of high rainfall, there are no permanent rivers or lakes on Malta. However, some watercourses have fresh water running all year round at ] near ], at l-Imtaħleb and San Martin, and at Lunzjata Valley in Gozo.


], Malta belongs to the Liguro-Tyrrhenian province of the Mediterranean region within the ]. According to the ], the territory of Malta belongs to the terrestrial ] of ].<ref name="DinersteinOlson2017">{{Cite journal |last1=Dinerstein |first1=Eric |last2=Olson |first2=David |last3=Joshi |first3=Anup |last4=Vynne |first4=Carly |last5=Burgess |first5=Neil D. |last6=Wikramanayake |first6=Eric |last7=Hahn |first7=Nathan |last8=Palminteri |first8=Suzanne |last9=Hedao |first9=Prashant |last10=Noss |first10=Reed |last11=Hansen |first11=Matt |display-authors=1 |year=2017 |title=An Ecoregion-Based Approach to Protecting Half the Terrestrial Realm |journal=BioScience |volume=67 |issue=6 |pages=534–545 |doi=10.1093/biosci/bix014 |issn=0006-3568 |pmc=5451287 |pmid=28608869 |last12=Locke |first12=Harvey |last13=Ellis |first13=Erle C |last14=Jones |first14=Benjamin |last15=Barber |first15=Charles Victor |last16=Hayes |first16=Randy |last17=Kormos |first17=Cyril |last18=Martin |first18=Vance |last19=Crist |first19=Eileen |last20=Sechrest |first20=Wes |last21=Price |first21=Lori |last22=Baillie |first22=Jonathan E. M. |last23=Weeden |first23=Don |last24=Suckling |first24=Kierán |last25=Davis |first25=Crystal |last26=Sizer |first26=Nigel |last27=Moore |first27=Rebecca |last28=Thau |first28=David |last29=Birch |first29=Tanya |last30=Potapov |first30=Peter |last31=Turubanova |first31=Svetlana |last32=Tyukavina |first32=Alexandra |last33=de Souza |first33=Nadia |last34=Pintea |first34=Lilian |last35=Brito |first35=José C. |last36=Llewellyn |first36=Othman A. |last37=Miller |first37=Anthony G. |last38=Patzelt |first38=Annette |last39=Ghazanfar |first39=Shahina A. |last40=Timberlake |first40=Jonathan |last41=Klöser |first41=Heinz |last42=Shennan-Farpón |first42=Yara |last43=Kindt |first43=Roeland |last44=Lillesø |first44=Jens-Peter Barnekow |last45=van Breugel |first45=Paulo |last46=Graudal |first46=Lars |last47=Voge |first47=Maianna |last48=Al-Shammari |first48=Khalaf F. |last49=Saleem |first49=Muhammad}}</ref>
], Malta belongs to the Liguro-Tyrrhenian province of the ] within the ]. According to the ], the territory of Malta belongs to the ] of "Mediterranean Forests, Woodlands and Scrub".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/where_we_work/ecoregions/mediterranean_forests_scrub.cfm|archiveurl=//web.archive.org/web/20080313050219/http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/where_we_work/ecoregions/mediterranean_forests_scrub.cfm|archivedate=13 March 2008|title=Mediterranean Forests, Woodlands and Scrub&nbsp;– A Global Ecoregion|publisher=Panda.org|accessdate=28 November 2008}}</ref>
]


The minor islands that form part of the archipelago are uninhabited and include: The following uninhabited minor islands are part of the archipelago:


{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
{{Col-start}}{{Col-break}}
*Barbaġanni Rock (]) * Barbaġanni Rock (])
*], (''Kemmunett'') * ] ({{lang|mt|Kemmunett}})
*Dellimara Island (]) * Dellimara Island (])
*] (])/(]) * ] (])/(])
*Fessej Rock * Fessej Rock
*], (''Il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral'') (]) * ] ({{lang|mt|Il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral}}), (])
*Għallis Rock (]) * Għallis Rock (])
*Ħalfa Rock (]) * ] (])
*Large Blue Lagoon Rocks (]) * Large Blue Lagoon Rocks (])
* ]/Selmunett Island (])
{{Col-break}}
* ], which connects to the town of ], on the mainland via a bridge
*]/Selmunett Island (])
* Mistra Rocks (])
*], which connects to the town of ], on the mainland, via a bridge
* Taċ-Ċawl Rock (])
*Mistra Rocks (])
* Qawra Point/Ta' Fraben Island (])
*Taċ-Ċawl Rock (])
* Small Blue Lagoon Rocks (])
*Qawra Point/Ta' Fraben Island (])
*Small Blue Lagoon Rocks (]) * Sala Rock (])
*Sala Rock (]) * Xrobb l-Għaġin Rock (])
* Ta' taħt il-Mazz Rock
*Xrobb l-Għaġin Rock (])
{{div col end}}
*Ta' taħt il-Mazz Rock
{{Col-end}}


===Climate=== ===Climate===
{{Main|Climate of Malta}} {{Main|Climate of Malta}}
Malta has a ] (] ''Csa''),<ref name=cia/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.doi.gov.mt/en/islands/location.asp |title=The Maltese Islands|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070703093532/http://www.doi.gov.mt/en/islands/location.asp |archive-date=3 July 2007 |publisher= Department of Information&nbsp;– Malta}}</ref> with mild winters and hot summers, hotter in the inland areas. Rain occurs mainly in autumn and winter, with summer being generally dry.
] and ] island]]

Malta has a ]–] (] ''Csa''),<ref name=cia/><ref>, Department of Information&nbsp;– Malta.</ref> with very mild winters and warm to hot summers. Rain occurs mainly in winter, with summer being generally dry. According to ], Malta is the country with the best climate in the world.<ref></ref>
The average yearly temperature is around {{convert|23|°C|°F|abbr=on}} during the day and {{convert|15.5|°C|°F|abbr=on}} at night. In the coldest month&nbsp;– January&nbsp;– the typical maximum temperature ranges from {{convert|12|to|18|C|F}} during the day and minimum {{convert|6|to|12|C|F}} at night. In the warmest month&nbsp;– August&nbsp;– the typical maximum temperature ranges from {{convert|28|to|34|C|F}} during the day and minimum {{convert|20|to|24|C|F}} at night. Amongst all capitals in the continent of Europe, Valletta&nbsp;– the capital of Malta has the warmest winters, with average temperatures of around {{convert|15|to|16|°C|°F|abbr=on}} during the day and {{convert|9|to|10|°C|°F|abbr=on}} at night in the period January–February. In March and December average temperatures are around {{convert|17|°C|°F|abbr=on}} during the day and {{convert|11|°C|°F|abbr=on}} at night.<ref name="Met Office"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170625202533/https://www.maltairport.com/weather/ |date=25 June 2017 }}&nbsp;– MET Office in Malta International Airport</ref> Large fluctuations in temperature are rare. Snow is very rare, although snowfalls have been recorded in the last century, the last one in 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ltd |first=Allied Newspapers |title=Updated – 'Snowflakes' reported in several parts of Malta – Met Office 'monitoring' situation |date=31 December 2014 |url=https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141231/local/updated-snowflakes-reported-in-several-parts-of-malta-met-office.550143 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170930131435/https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141231/local/updated-snowflakes-reported-in-several-parts-of-malta-met-office.550143 |archive-date=30 September 2017 |access-date=30 September 2017}}</ref>


The average annual sea temperature is {{convert|20|°C|0|abbr=on}}, from {{convert|15|-|16|C|F}} in February to {{convert|26|°C|0|abbr=on}} in August. In the 6 months&nbsp;– from June to November&nbsp;– the average sea temperature exceeds {{convert|20|°C|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name="weather2travel">{{Cite web |title=Valletta Climate Guide |url=http://www.weather2travel.com/climate-guides/malta/valletta.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101003085828/http://www.weather2travel.com/climate-guides/malta/valletta.php |archive-date=3 October 2010 |access-date=5 June 2009}}</ref><ref name="maltaweather">{{Cite web |title=Malta's Climate |url=http://www.maltaweather.com/?page_id=37 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016040844/http://www.maltaweather.com/?page_id=37 |archive-date=16 October 2015 |access-date=5 November 2015 |website=maltaweather.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.seatemperature.org/europe/malta/birzebbuga-december.htm |title=Birżebbuġa, Malta average sea temperature|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150321074136/http://www.seatemperature.org/europe/malta/birzebbuga-december.htm |archive-date=21 March 2015|website= seatemperature.org}}</ref>
The average yearly temperature is around {{convert|23|°C|°F|abbr=on}} during the day and {{convert|16|°C|°F|abbr=on}} at night. In the coldest month&nbsp;– January&nbsp;– the typically maximum temperature ranges from {{convert|12|to|20|C|F}} during the day and minimum {{convert|7|to|12|C|F}} at night. In the warmest month&nbsp;– August&nbsp;– the typically maximum temperature ranges from {{convert|28|to|34|C|F}} during the day and minimum {{convert|20|to|24|C|F}} at night. Generally&nbsp;– summers/holiday season lasts to 8 months, starting from around mid-April with temperatures {{convert|19|-|23|C|F}} during the day and {{convert|13|-|14|C|F}} at night, ending in November with temperatures {{convert|17|-|23|C|F}} during the day and {{convert|11|-|20|C|F}} at night, although also in the remaining 4 months temperatures sometimes reach {{convert|20|°C|0|abbr=on}}. Amongst all capitals in the continent of Europe, Valletta&nbsp;– the capital of Malta has the warmest winters, with average temperatures of around {{convert|16|°C|°F|abbr=on}} during the day and {{convert|10|°C|°F|abbr=on}} at night in the period January–February. In March and December average temperatures is around {{convert|17|°C|°F|abbr=on}} during the day and {{convert|11|°C|°F|abbr=on}} at night.<ref name="Met Office">&nbsp;– MET Office in Malta International Airport</ref> Large fluctuations in temperature are rare. Also, Malta is one of the few places in Europe which are "green" all year round.


The annual average ] is high, averaging 75%, ranging from 65% in July (morning: 78% evening: 53%) to 80% in December (morning: 83% evening: 73%).<ref name="weatherbase.com">{{Cite web |title=Valletta, Malta Travel Weather Averages |url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weatherall.php3?s=79561&refer=&units=metric |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160403141404/http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weatherall.php3?refer=&s=79561&units=metric |archive-date=3 April 2016 |access-date=1 June 2015 |website=Weatherbase.com}}</ref>
Average annual temperature of the sea is {{convert|20|°C|0|abbr=on}} (the highest in the continent of Europe), from {{convert|15|-|16|C|F}} in February to {{convert|26|°C|0|abbr=on}} in August. In the 6 months&nbsp;– from June to November&nbsp;– the average sea temperature exceeds {{convert|20|°C|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name="weather2travel">{{cite web|url=http://www.weather2travel.com/climate-guides/malta/valletta.php|title=Valletta Climate Guide |accessdate=5 June 2009}}</ref><ref name=maltaweather /><ref> - seatemperature.org</ref>


] hours total around 3,000 per year, from an average 5.2 hours of sunshine duration per day in December to an average above 12 hours in July.<ref name=maltaweather /><ref name="noaa">{{Cite web |title=Climate Data for Luqa |url=ftp://dossier.ogp.noaa.gov/GCOS/WMO-Normals/RA-VI/ML/16597.TXT |access-date=15 October 2012 |publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration}}</ref> This is about double that of cities in the northern half of Europe,{{Original research inline|date=March 2020}} for comparison: London&nbsp;– 1,461;<ref name="London_climate">{{Cite web |title=Met Office: Climate averages 1971–2000 |url=http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/climate/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303235458/http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/climate/ |archive-date=3 March 2016 |access-date=20 September 2011 |publisher=]}}</ref> however, in winter it has up to four times more sunshine; for comparison: in December, London has 37 hours of sunshine<ref name=London_climate/> whereas Malta has above 160.
] hours total around 3,000 per year (the highest results in Europe), from an average 5.2 hours of sunshine duration per day in December to an average above 12 hours in July.<ref name=maltaweather /><ref name = noaa >{{cite web
|url = ftp://dossier.ogp.noaa.gov/GCOS/WMO-Normals/RA-VI/ML/16597.TXT
|title = Climate Data for Luqa
|publisher= National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
|accessdate = 15 October 2012}}</ref> This is about double that of cities in the northern half of Europe, for comparison: London&nbsp;– 1,461;<ref name=London_climate>{{cite web
|url= http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate/uk/averages/19712000/sites/greenwich.html
|title= Met Office: Climate averages 1971–2000
|publisher=]
|accessdate=20 September 2011}}</ref> however, in winter it has up to four times more sunshine; for comparison: in December, London has 37 hours of sunshine<ref name=London_climate/> whereas Malta has above 160.


{{Weather box {{Weather box
|location = Malta (] in the central part of the island) 1985– |location = Malta (] in the south-east part of main island, 1991–2020)
|metric first = yes |metric first = yes
|single line = yes |single line = yes
|Jan high C = 16.1 |width = auto
|Feb high C = 16.0 |Jan high C = 15.7
|Mar high C = 17.8 |Feb high C = 15.7
|Mar high C = 17.4
|Apr high C = 20.0 |Apr high C = 20.0
|May high C = 24.2 |May high C = 24.2
|Jun high C = 28.5 |Jun high C = 28.7
|Jul high C = 31.5 |Jul high C = 31.7
|Aug high C = 31.8 |Aug high C = 32.0
|Sep high C = 28.4 |Sep high C = 28.6
|Oct high C = 25.2 |Oct high C = 25.0
|Nov high C = 21.0 |Nov high C = 20.8
|Dec high C = 17.5 |Dec high C = 17.2
|year high C = 23.2 |year high C = 23.1
|Jan mean C = 13.2 |Jan mean C = 12.9
|Feb mean C = 13.0 |Feb mean C = 12.6
|Mar mean C = 14.6 |Mar mean C = 14.1
|Apr mean C = 16.7 |Apr mean C = 16.4
|May mean C = 20.4 |May mean C = 20.1
|Jun mean C = 24.4 |Jun mean C = 24.2
|Jul mean C = 27.2 |Jul mean C = 26.9
|Aug mean C = 27.7 |Aug mean C = 27.5
|Sep mean C = 25.0 |Sep mean C = 24.9
|Oct mean C = 21.9 |Oct mean C = 21.8
|Nov mean C = 18.0 |Nov mean C = 17.9
|Dec mean C = 14.7 |Dec mean C = 14.5
|year mean C = 19.7 |year mean C = 19.5
|Jan low C = 10.3 |Jan low C = 10.1
|Feb low C = 9.9 |Feb low C = 9.5
|Mar low C = 11.3 |Mar low C = 10.9
|Apr low C = 13.3 |Apr low C = 12.8
|May low C = 16.6 |May low C = 15.8
|Jun low C = 20.3 |Jun low C = 19.6
|Jul low C = 22.8 |Jul low C = 22.1
|Aug low C = 23.6 |Aug low C = 23.0
|Sep low C = 21.6 |Sep low C = 21.2
|Oct low C = 18.6 |Oct low C = 18.4
|Nov low C = 15.0 |Nov low C = 14.9
|Dec low C = 11.9 |Dec low C = 11.8
|year low C = 16.3 |year low C = 15.9
|Jan precipitation mm = 94.7 |Jan precipitation mm = 79.3
|Feb precipitation mm = 63.4 |Feb precipitation mm = 73.2
|Mar precipitation mm = 37.0 |Mar precipitation mm = 45.3
|Apr precipitation mm = 26.3 |Apr precipitation mm = 20.7
|May precipitation mm = 9.2 |May precipitation mm = 11.0
|Jun precipitation mm = 5.4 |Jun precipitation mm = 6.2
|Jul precipitation mm = 0.2 |Jul precipitation mm = 0.2
|Aug precipitation mm = 6.0 |Aug precipitation mm = 17.0
|Sep precipitation mm = 67.4 |Sep precipitation mm = 60.7
|Oct precipitation mm = 77.2 |Oct precipitation mm = 81.8
|Nov precipitation mm = 108.6 |Nov precipitation mm = 91.0
|Dec precipitation mm = 107.7 |Dec precipitation mm = 93.7
|year precipitation mm = 603 |year precipitation mm = 580.7
|Jan precipitation days = 15 |Jan precipitation days = 10.0
|Feb precipitation days = 12 |Feb precipitation days = 8.2
|Mar precipitation days = 9 |Mar precipitation days = 6.1
|Apr precipitation days = 6 |Apr precipitation days = 3.8
|May precipitation days = 3 |May precipitation days = 1.5
|Jun precipitation days = 1 |Jun precipitation days = 0.8
|Jul precipitation days = 0 |Jul precipitation days = 0.0
|Aug precipitation days = 1 |Aug precipitation days = 1.0
|Sep precipitation days = 5 |Sep precipitation days = 4.3
|Oct precipitation days = 9 |Oct precipitation days = 6.6
|Nov precipitation days = 13 |Nov precipitation days = 8.7
|Dec precipitation days = 16 |Dec precipitation days = 10.0
|year precipitation days = 90 |year precipitation days = 61
|unit precipitation days=0.1&nbsp;mm |unit precipitation days = 1.0&nbsp;mm
|Jan sun = 169.3 |Jan sun = 169.3
|Feb sun = 178.1 |Feb sun = 178.1
Line 391: Line 382:
|Nov sun = 195.0 |Nov sun = 195.0
|Dec sun = 161.2 |Dec sun = 161.2
|year sun = 3053.9 |year sun = 3054
|source 1 = ''Meteo Climate'' (1991–2020 Data),<ref>{{Cite web |title=Luqa Weather Averages 1991–2020 |url=http://meteo-climat-bzh.dyndns.org/listenormale-1991-2020-1-p138.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220625082326/http://meteo-climat-bzh.dyndns.org/listenormale-1991-2020-1-p138.php |archive-date=25 June 2022 |access-date=2 June 2015 |website=Meteo-climat-bzh.dyndns.org}}</ref> MaltaWeather.com (Sun data)<ref name="MaltaWeather">{{Cite web |title=Malta's Climate |url=http://www.maltaweather.com/information/maltas-climate/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150806124550/http://www.maltaweather.com/information/maltas-climate/ |archive-date=6 August 2015 |access-date=21 October 2013 |website=Maltaweather.com }}</ref>|date=October 2013}}
|source 1 = maltaweather.com (Meteo Malta & MaltaMedia)<ref name=maltaweather>{{cite web
|url=http://www.maltaweather.com/information/maltas-climate/
|title=Malta's Climate
|accessdate=October 2013 }}</ref>|date=August 2014}}


===Urbanization=== ===Urbanisation===
]
According to ], Malta is composed of two ] nominally referred to as "Valetta" (the main island of Malta) and "Gozo".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.urbanaudit.org/DataAccessed.aspx |title=Eurostat, Malta |publisher=Urbanaudit.org |accessdate=20 October 2013}}</ref> According to ], state is identified as urban area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.demographia.com/db-worldua.pdf |title=Demographia: World Urban Areas |format=PDF |accessdate=20 October 2013}}</ref> According to ], Malta is identified as Functional Urban Area (FUA).<ref> – European Spatial Planning Observation Network, 2007</ref> According to United Nations, about 95% area of Malta is urban area and the number grows every year.<ref> – Department of Economic and Social Affairs/Population Division, United Nations (Table A.2; page 79)</ref> Also, according to the results of ESPON and EU Commission studies, "''the whole territory of Malta constitutes a single urban region''".<ref> – Preliminary results of ESPON and EU Commission studies</ref>
According to ], Malta is composed of two ] nominally referred to as "Valletta" (the main island of Malta) and "Gozo". The main urban area covers the entire main island, with a population of around 400,000.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150903213351/http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=urb_lpop1&lang=en |date=3 September 2015 }} Eurostat, 2015.</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Population on 1 January by broad age group, sex and metropolitan regions |url=http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=met_pjanaggr3&lang=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160822103143/http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=met_pjanaggr3&lang=en |archive-date=22 August 2016 |access-date=25 February 2019 |publisher=Eurostat}}</ref> The core of the urban area, the ''greater city'' of Valletta, has a population of 205,768.<ref name="Eurostat-city"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150927224958/http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=urb_cpop1&lang=en |date=27 September 2015 }} Eurostat, 2015.</ref> According to the data from 2020 by ], the Functional Urban Area and metropolitan region covered the whole island and has a population of 480,134.<ref name="Eurostat_FUA">{{cite web |date=2020 |title=Population on 1 January by age groups and sex – functional urban areas |url=http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=urb_lpop1&lang=en |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150903213351/http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=urb_lpop1&lang=en |archive-date=3 September 2015 |access-date=5 March 2022 |website=]}}</ref><ref name="Eurostat-metro">{{cite web |date=2020 |title=Population on 1 January by broad age group, sex and metropolitan regions 2020 |url=http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=met_pjanaggr3&lang=en |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160822103143/http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=met_pjanaggr3&lang=en |archive-date=22 August 2016 |access-date=5 March 2022 |website=]}}</ref> According to the United Nations, about 95 percent of the area of Malta is urban and the number grows every year.<ref name="WUP"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525185336/http://www.un.org/esa/population/publications/wup2007/2007WUP_Highlights_web.pdf |date=25 May 2017 }} – Department of Economic and Social Affairs/Population Division, United Nations (Table A.2; page 79)</ref> According to ESPON and EU Commission studies, "the whole territory of Malta constitutes a single urban region".<ref name="ESPON-EUC"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130423165806/http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/docoffic/official/reports/coheter/coheter_en.pdf |date=23 April 2013 }} – Preliminary results of ESPON and EU Commission studies</ref>


Malta, with area of {{convert|316|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}} and population of over 0.5&nbsp;million, is one of the ] countries worldwide. It is in some sources<ref name="GMB_Publishing">{{Cite book |last1=Terterov |first1=Marat |url=https://archive.org/details/doingbusinesswit00tert_454 |title=Doing Business with Malta |last2=Reuvid |first2=Jonathan |date=2005 |publisher=] |isbn=978-1-905050-63-5 |page= |url-access=limited}}</ref><ref name="creativemalta">{{Citation |last=Creativemalta.gov.mt |title=Draft National Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries – Creative Malta |url=http://www.creativemalta.gov.mt/internationalisation/introduction |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130728080308/http://www.creativemalta.gov.mt/internationalisation/introduction |access-date=17 August 2013 |archive-date=28 July 2013 }}</ref><ref name="doi">{{Citation |title=Flags, Symbols and their uses |url=https://www.gov.mt/en/About%20Malta/Pages/Flags-Symbols-and-their-use.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629143728/https://www.gov.mt/en/About%20Malta/Pages/Flags-Symbols-and-their-use.aspx |publisher=Department of Information of Malta |access-date=25 February 2019 |archive-date=29 June 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |year=2012 |title=Creativity Works – A report on Malta's Creative Economy strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries – Part 3 |url=http://www.maltaculture.com/files/uploads/misc/PART%203%20Education-%20Route%20to%20Market%20-%20Internationalisation%20(8).pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211080057/http://www.maltaculture.com/files/uploads/misc/PART%203%20Education-%20Route%20to%20Market%20-%20Internationalisation%20(8).pdf |archive-date=11 February 2017 |access-date=9 February 2017 |publisher=Malta Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Tourism |page=121}}</ref><ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407084112/https://www.ecb.europa.eu/euro/coins/html/mt.en.html |date=7 April 2014 }} – European Central Bank.</ref> referred to as a ]. Sometimes Malta is listed in rankings concerning cities<ref name="GFC">{{cite web|url=http://www.longfinance.net/images/GFCI18_23Sep2015.pdf |title=The Global Financial Centres|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227131528/http://www.longfinance.net/images/GFCI18_23Sep2015.pdf |archive-date=27 February 2017 |publisher=Qatar Financial Centre|year= 2015}}</ref> or metropolitan areas.<ref name="inta-aivn.org"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020042128/https://www.inta-aivn.org/images/cc/Metropolisation/background%20documents/Metropolitan_Europe_BBSR_Study.pdf |date=20 October 2016 }} – Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development, 2011.</ref>
Occasionally in the media and official publications Malta is referred to as a ].<ref> – ]</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.creativemalta.gov.mt/internationalisation/introduction |title=Draft National Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries – Creative Malta |publisher=Creativemalta.gov.mt |accessdate=20 October 2013}}</ref> Also, the Maltese coat-of-arms bears a ] described as "representing the fortifications of Malta and denoting a City State".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.doi.gov.mt/en/state/symbols.asp |title="The emblem of Malta", Department of Information |publisher=Doi.gov.mt |accessdate=20 October 2013}}</ref> Malta, with area of {{convert|316|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}} and population of 0.4 million, is one of the ] countries worldwide.

===Flora===
{{main|Flora of Malta}}
] ({{lang|mt|Widnet il&#x2011;Baħar}}, since 1971)]]
The Maltese islands are home to a wide diversity of indigenous, sub-endemic and endemic plants.<ref>{{Cite web|title=State of the Environment Report 2005 - Sub-report 9: Biodiversity |url=https://era.org.mt/en/Documents/SOER%2005%20Sub%20Report%209%20-%20Biodiversity.pdf.pdf |date=January 2006 |website=] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180107021301/https://era.org.mt/en/Documents/SOER%2005%20Sub%20Report%209%20-%20Biodiversity.pdf.pdf |archive-date=7 January 2018 |access-date=17 January 2020}}</ref> They feature many traits typical of a Mediterranean climate, such as drought resistance. The most common indigenous trees on the islands are olive ('']''), carob ('']''), fig ('']''), holm oak ('']'') and Aleppo pine ('']''), while the most common non-native trees are ], ] and ]. Endemic plants include the national flower {{lang|mt|widnet il-baħar}} ('']''), {{lang|mt|sempreviva ta' Malta}} (]), {{lang|mt|żigland t' Għawdex}} ('']'') and {{lang|mt|ġiżi ta' Malta}} (]) while sub-endemics include {{lang|mt|kromb il-baħar}} (]) and {{lang|mt|xkattapietra}} ('']'').<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mifsud |first=Stephen |title=Wild Plants of Malta and Gozo – Main Page |url=http://www.maltawildplants.com/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190201065313/http://www.maltawildplants.com/ |archive-date=1 February 2019 |access-date=24 January 2019 |website=Maltawildplants.com |language=en}}</ref> The biodiversity of Malta is severely endangered by habitat loss, invasive species and human intervention.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Maltese Biodiversity under threat |date=13 February 2011 |url=http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2011-02-13/news/maltese-biodiversity-under-threat-287673/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124203324/http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2011-02-13/news/maltese-biodiversity-under-threat-287673/ |archive-date=24 January 2019 |access-date=24 January 2019 |website=The Malta Independent}}</ref>


==Economy== ==Economy==
{{Main|Economy of Malta}} {{Main|Economy of Malta}}
{{refimprove section|date=August 2014}} {{update|section|date=December 2019}}
] ]
]
Malta is classified as an ] together with 32 other countries according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2010/02/index.htm |title=IMF World Economic Outlook (WEO)&nbsp;– Recovery, Risk, and Rebalancing, October 2010&nbsp;– Table of Contents |publisher=Imf.org |date=6 October 2010 |accessdate=1 June 2011}}</ref> Until 1800 Malta depended on cotton, tobacco and its shipyards for exports. Once under British control, they came to depend on ] for support of the ], especially during the ] of 1854. The military base benefited craftsmen and all those who served the military.
Malta is classified as an ] according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 October 2010 |title=IMF World Economic Outlook (WEO)&nbsp;– Recovery, Risk, and Rebalancing, October 2010&nbsp;– Table of Contents |url=http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2010/02/index.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110430141938/http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2010/02/index.htm |archive-date=30 April 2011 |access-date=1 June 2011 |publisher=IMF}}</ref> Malta's major resources are ], a favourable geographic location and a productive labour force. Malta produces only about 20 percent of its food needs, has limited fresh water supplies because of the drought in the summer, and has no domestic energy sources, aside from the potential for solar energy from its plentiful sunlight. The economy is dependent on foreign trade (serving as a freight trans-shipment point), manufacturing (especially electronics and textiles), and tourism.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Economy of Malta {{!}} Development and Entry to the European Union |url=http://www.malta.com/en/about-malta/economy |access-date=8 April 2020 |website=Malta.com |archive-date=25 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925180935/http://www.malta.com/en/about-malta/economy |url-status=live }}</ref> ] has contributed to the Maltese economy.<ref>{{Cite news |date=21 July 2010 |title=Unprecedented growth for Malta's film industry |work=The Times of Malta |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100721/local/unprecedented-growth-for-maltas-film-industry.318866 |url-status=live |access-date=1 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006123230/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100721/local/unprecedented-growth-for-maltas-film-industry.318866 |archive-date=6 October 2014}}</ref>


Access to ] in Malta is below the world average. In 2016, Malta had 0.6 global hectares of biocapacity per person within its territory, contrasted with a global average of 1.6 hectares per person.<ref name="footprintdata">{{Cite web |title=Country Trends |url=http://data.footprintnetwork.org/#/countryTrends?cn=134&type=BCpc,EFCpc |access-date=4 June 2020 |publisher=Global Footprint Network |archive-date=8 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808050235/http://data.footprintnetwork.org/#/countryTrends?cn=134&type=BCpc,EFCpc |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Lin |first1=David |last2=Hanscom |first2=Laurel |last3=Murthy |first3=Adeline |last4=Galli |first4=Alessandro |last5=Evans |first5=Mikel |last6=Neill |first6=Evan |last7=Mancini |first7=MariaSerena |last8=Martindill |first8=Jon |last9=Medouar |first9=FatimeZahra |last10=Huang |first10=Shiyu |last11=Wackernagel |first11=Mathis |date=2018 |title=Ecological Footprint Accounting for Countries: Updates and Results of the National Footprint Accounts, 2012–2018 |journal=Resources |language=en |volume=7 |issue=3 |page=58 |doi=10.3390/resources7030058 |doi-access=free}}</ref> Additionally, residents of Malta exhibited an ] of consumption of 5.8 global hectares of biocapacity per person, resulting in a sizable biocapacity deficit.<ref name=footprintdata/>
In 1869, the opening of the ] gave Malta's economy a great boost, as there was a massive increase in the shipping which entered the port. Ships stopping at Malta's docks for refuelling helped the ] trade, which brought additional benefits to the island.


], the ] (dark blue).]]
However, towards the end of the 19th century the economy began declining, and by the 1940s Malta's economy was in serious crisis. One factor was the longer range of newer merchant ships that required less frequent refuelling stops.
]
Currently, Malta's major resources are ], a favourable geographic location and a productive labour force. Malta produces only about 20% of its food needs, has limited freshwater supplies because of the drought in the summer and has no domestic energy sources, aside from the potential for ] from its plentiful sunlight.<ref> claims to be Malta’s leading renewable energy company.</ref> The economy is dependent on foreign trade (serving as a freight trans-shipment point), manufacturing (especially electronics and textiles) and tourism.


In preparation for Malta's membership in the ], which it joined on 1 May 2004, it ] some state-controlled firms and liberalised markets.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta Post |url=https://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/MaltaPost.aspx |access-date=3 April 2020 |website=privatisation.gov.mt |language=en |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117124614/https://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/MaltaPost.aspx }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Maltacom |url=https://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/Maltacom.aspx |access-date=3 April 2020 |website=privatisation.gov.mt |language=en |archive-date=9 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609211301/http://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/Maltacom.aspx }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta Freeport |url=https://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/malta-freeport.aspx |access-date=3 April 2020 |website=privatisation.gov.mt |language=en |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117111406/https://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/malta-freeport.aspx }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta International Airport |url=https://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/Malta-International-Airport.aspx |access-date=3 April 2020 |website=Privatisation.gov.mt |language=en |archive-date=9 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609201831/http://privatisation.gov.mt/en/past-projects/Pages/Malta-International-Airport.aspx }}</ref> Malta has a financial regulator, the ] (MFSA), with a strong business development mindset, and the country has been successful in attracting gaming businesses, aircraft and ship registration, credit-card issuing banking licences and also fund administration. Malta has made strong headway in implementing EU Financial Services Directives including UCITs IV and Alternative Investment Fund Managers (AIFMs). As a base for alternative asset managers who must comply with new directives, Malta has attracted a number of key players including IDS, Iconic Funds, Apex Fund Services and TMF/Customs House.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 May 2010 |title=Malta funds |url=http://www.financemalta.org/funds |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130304201347/http://www.financemalta.org/funds |archive-date=4 March 2013 |access-date=12 March 2013 |website=Financemalta.org}}</ref>
] is a growing contributor to the Maltese economy.<ref>{{cite news|title=Unprecedented growth for Malta's film industry|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100721/local/unprecedented-growth-for-maltas-film-industry.318866|work=The Times|location=Malta|publisher=Allied Newspapers Limited|date=21 July 2010|accessdate=1 October 2014}}</ref> The first film was shot in Malta in 1925 (''Sons of the Sea'');<ref>{{cite news|title=Silent films showed scenes shot in Malta|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20121104/arts-entertainment/silent-films-showed-scenes-shot-in-malta.444013|work=The Times|location=Malta|publisher=Allied Newspapers Limited|date=4 November 2012|accessdate=1 October 2014}}</ref> over 100 feature films have been entirely or partially filmed in the country since then{{Citation needed|date=August 2014}}. Malta has served as a "double" for a wide variety of locations and historic periods including Ancient Greece, Ancient and Modern Rome, Iraq, the Middle East and many more{{Citation needed|date=September 2014}}. The Maltese government introduced financial incentives for filmmakers in 2005.<ref>{{cite news|last=Carabott|first=Michael|title=Incentives To boost film production in Malta|url=http://www.independent.com.mt/mobile/2005-07-14/news/incentives-to-boost-film-production-in-malta-77911/|work=The Malta Independent|publisher=Standard Publications Ltd.|date=14 July 2005|accessdate=1 October 2014}}</ref> The current financial incentives to foreign productions currently{{When|date=August 2014}} stand at 25% with an additional 2% if Malta stands in as Malta; meaning a production can get up to 27% back on their eligible spending incurred in Malta{{Citation needed|date=September 2014}}.


As of 2015, Malta did not have a property tax. Its property market, especially around the harbour area, was booming, with the prices of apartments in some towns like St Julian's, Sliema and Gzira skyrocketing.<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 February 2016 |title=Apartments.com.mt |url=http://apartments.com.mt/location/sliema/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151110232735/http://apartments.com.mt/location/sliema/ |archive-date=10 November 2015 |access-date=10 February 2016 |website=Apartments.com.mt}}</ref>
] (dark blue)]]
The government is investing heavily in education, including college.


According to ] data, Maltese GDP per capita stood at ] in 2015 with €21,000.<ref name="Eurostat 2012">{{Cite web |last=Eurostat |date=1 December 2016 |title=GDP per capita in PPS |url=http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/tgm/table.do?tab=table&init=1&language=en&pcode=tec00114&plugin=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524215819/http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/tgm/table.do?tab=table&init=1&language=en&pcode=tec00114&plugin=1 |archive-date=24 May 2015 |access-date=9 February 2017 |website=Europa web portal}}</ref>
In preparation for Malta's membership in the ], which it joined on 1 May 2004, it ] some state-controlled firms and liberalised markets. For example, the government announced on 8 January 2007 that it was selling its 40% stake in ], to complete a privatisation process which has been ongoing for the past five years. In 2010, Malta managed to privatise telecommunications, postal services, shipyards and shipbuilding.


The National Development and Social Fund from the Individual Investor Programme, a ] also known as the "citizenship scheme", became a significant income source for the government of Malta, adding 432,000,000 euro to the budget in 2018.<ref>{{Cite news |date=28 September 2018 |title=Passport sale fund rakes in more than €400m |work=Times Malta |url=https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/passport-sale-fund-rakes-in-more-than-400m.690224 |url-status=live |access-date=10 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190925155616/https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/passport-sale-fund-rakes-in-more-than-400m.690224 |archive-date=25 September 2019}}</ref>
Malta has taken important and substantial steps to establish itself as a global player in the cross-border fund administration business. Competing against countries like Ireland and Luxembourg, Malta has a unique combination of a multi-lingual workforce and a strong ]. Malta has a mixed reputation for transparency and a DAW Index score of 6, although both are expected to improve as Malta increasingly adopts more comprehensive legislative framework for financial services.<ref>Transparency International and http://www.mfsa.com.mt</ref> Malta has a regulator, the MFSA, with a strong business development mindset, and the country has been successful in attracting gaming businesses, aircraft and ship registration, credit-card issuing banking licences and also fund administration. Service providers to these industries, including fiduciary and trustee business, are a core part of the growth strategy of the Island. Malta has made strong headway in implementing EU Financial Services Directives including UCITs IV and soon AIFMD. As a base for alternative asset managers who must comply with new directives, Malta has attracted a number of key players including IDS, Iconic Funds, ] and TMF/Customs House.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.financemalta.org/funds |title=Malta funds |publisher=Financemalta.org |date=5 May 2010 |accessdate=12 March 2013}}</ref>

Malta and ] are currently discussing the commercial exploitation of the continental shelf between their countries, particularly for petroleum exploration. These discussions are also undergoing between Malta and ] for similar arrangements.

Malta does not have a property tax.

According to ] data, Maltese GDP per capita stood at ] in 2010 with €21,000.<ref name="Eurostat 2012">{{Cite web|title=Regional GDP per capita in the EU in 2010: eight capital regions in the ten first places|publisher=Europa web portal|author=Eurostat|date=21 March 2013|url=http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/cache/ITY_PUBLIC/1-21032013-AP/EN/1-21032013-AP-EN.PDF|accessdate=25 March 2013}}</ref>


===Banking and finance=== ===Banking and finance===
{{see also|List of banks in Malta}}
], the tallest building in Malta.]]
], the second tallest building in Malta]]
The two largest commercial banks are ] and ], both of which can trace their origins back to the 19th century.
The two largest commercial banks are ] and ]. ] such as ] have also increased in popularity.<ref name="mtdigital">{{Cite news |last=Pace |first=Yannick |date=1 August 2019 |title=Revolut rampage: 100,000 Maltese are now using the digital bank |work=] |url=https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/business/business_news/96651/revolut_rampage_100000_maltese_are_now_using_the_digital_bank_ |url-status=live |access-date=22 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190802185132/https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/business/business_news/96651/revolut_rampage_100000_maltese_are_now_using_the_digital_bank_ |archive-date=2 August 2019}}</ref> The ] (Bank Ċentrali ta' Malta) has two key areas of responsibility: the formulation and implementation of monetary policy and the promotion of a sound and efficient financial system. The Maltese government entered ] on 4 May 2005, and adopted the euro as the country's currency on 1 January 2008.<ref>{{Cite news |date=10 July 2007 |title=Cyprus and Malta to adopt euros |work=BBC News Business |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6288084.stm |url-status=live |access-date=12 October 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070919073627/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6288084.stm |archive-date=19 September 2007}}</ref>

The ] (Bank Ċentrali ta' Malta) has two key areas of responsibility: the formulation and implementation of monetary policy and the promotion of a sound and efficient financial system. It was established by the Central Bank of Malta Act on 17 April 1968. The Maltese government entered ] on 4 May 2005, and adopted the euro as the country's currency on 1 January 2008.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6288084.stm|title=Cyprus and Malta to adopt euros|date=10 July 2007|work=BBC News Business|accessdate=12 October 2007}}</ref>

is the quasi-governmental organisation tasked with marketing and educating business leaders in coming to Malta and runs seminars and events around the world highlighting the emerging strength of Malta as a jurisdiction for banking and finance and insurance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.financemalta.org |title=promoting financial services in Malta |publisher=FinanceMalta |accessdate=12 March 2013}}</ref>

===Transport===
{{Main|Transport in Malta|Malta bus}}
]
Traffic in Malta ]. Car ownership in Malta is exceedingly high, considering the very small size of the islands; it is the fourth-highest in the European Union. The number of registered cars in 1990 amounted to 182,254, giving an automobile density of 582 /km<sup>2</sup> (1,510 /sq mi).<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.researchgate.net/publication/33384971_Petrol_Lead_in_a_Small_Island_Environment|author=Michael Sammut, Charles Savona-Ventura|title=Petrol Lead in a Small Island Environment|journal=International Journal of Risk & Safety in Medicine|volume=9 |year=1996|pages=33–40}}</ref>

Malta has {{convert|2254|km|0|abbr=off}} of road, {{convert|1972|km|0|abbr=on}} (87.5%) of which are paved and {{convert|282|km|0|abbr=on}} were unpaved (as of December 2003).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nationmaster.com/country/mt-malta/tra-transportation|title=''NationMaster''&nbsp;– Transportation statistics|accessdate=19 February 2007}}</ref>
The main roads of Malta from the southernmost point to the northernmost point are these: Triq Birżebbuġa in ], ] Road and ] Road in ], Santa Luċija Avenue in ], Aldo Moro Street (Trunk Road), 13 December Street and ]-Marsa Bypass in ], Regional Road in ]/]/]/], St Andrew's Road in ]/], Coast Road in ], Salina Road, Kennedy Drive, St. Paul's Bypass and ] Hill in ], ] Hill, Wettinger Street (Mellieħa Bypass) and Marfa Road in ].

]
] (''xarabank'' or ''karozza tal-linja'') are the primary method of public transport. Established in 1905, they operated in the Maltese Islands up to 2011 and became popular tourist attractions in their own right. To this day they are depicted on many Maltese advertisements to promote tourism as well as on gifts and merchandise for tourists.

The bus service underwent an extensive reform in July 2011. The management structure changed from having self-employed drivers driving their own vehicles to a service being offered by a single company through a public tender (in Gozo, being considered as a small network, the service was given through direct order).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mitc.gov.mt/page.aspx?pageid=52 |title=Ministeru għall-Infrastruttura Transport u Komunikazzjoni&nbsp;– Transport Pubbliku |publisher=Mitc.gov.mt |accessdate=15 September 2011}}{{dead link|date=October 2013}}</ref> The public tender was won by Arriva Malta, a member of the ] group, which introduced a fleet of brand new buses, built by ] especially for service by Arriva Malta and including a smaller fleet of ]es brought in from ]. It also operated 2 smaller buses for an intra-] route only and 61 nine-metre buses, which were used to ease congestion on high density routes. Overall Arriva Malta operated 264 buses. On 1 January 2014 Arriva ceased operations in Malta due to financial difficulties, having been nationalised as ''Malta Public Transport'' by the Maltese government, with a new bus operator planned to take over their operations in the near future.<ref>{{cite news|title=Arriva Future Decided|url=http://www.di-ve.com/news/arriva-future-decided|accessdate=25 August 2014|work=di-ve.com news|date=22 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Sansone|first1=Kurt|title=New Year in, Arriva out|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131223/local/New-Year-in-Arriva-out.500112|accessdate=25 August 2014|work=]|date=23 December 2013}}</ref> The government chose Autobuses Urbanos de León as its preferred bus operator for the country in October 2014.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Dalli|first1=Kim|title=New bus operator to start in January|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141001/local/New-bus-operator-to-start-in-January.537947|work=]|date=1 October 2014}}</ref> The company took over the bus service on 8 January 2015, while retaining the name ''Malta Public Transport''.<ref>{{cite news|title=Spanish company takes over bus service|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20150108/local/spanish-company-takes-over-bus-service.551080|work=]|date=8 January 2015}}</ref>

Between 1883 and 1931, Malta had a railway line that connected ] to the army barracks at ] via ] and a number of towns and villages. The railway fell into disuse and eventually closed altogether, following the introduction of electric trams and buses. At the height of the bombing of Malta during World War II, ] announced that his forces had destroyed the railway system but by the time war broke out, the railway had been mothballed for more than nine years.

]]]
], one of the largest European ports.]]

Malta has three large natural harbours on its main island:

*The ] (or Port il-Kbir), located at the eastern side of the capital city of ], has been a harbour since ] times. It has several extensive ] and ], as well as a cruise liner terminal. A terminal at the Grand Harbour serves ] that connect Malta to ] & ] in Sicily.
*], located on the western side of Valletta, accommodates a number of yacht marinas.
*] (Malta Freeport), at ] on the south-eastern side of Malta, is the islands' main cargo terminal. Malta Freeport is the ] with a trade volume of 2.3&nbsp;million ] in 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://aapa.files.cms-plus.com/Statistics/WORLD%20PORT%20RANKINGS%2020081.pdf |title=AAPA World Port Rankings 2008 |format=PDF |accessdate=14 November 2010}}</ref>

There are also two-man-made harbours that serve a passenger and car ferry service that connects ] on Malta and ] on ]. The ferry makes numerous runs each day.

]]]

] (Ajruport Internazzjonali ta' Malta) is the only airport serving the Maltese Islands. It is built on the land formerly occupied by the ] air base. A heliport is also located there, but the scheduled service to Gozo ceased in 2006. The heliport in Gozo is at ]. Since June 2007, ] has operated a thrice-daily floatplane service between the sea terminal in Grand Harbour and Mgarr Harbour in Gozo.

Two further airfields at ] and ] operated during World War II and into the 1960s but are now closed. Today, ] houses a national park, ], the Crafts Village visitor attraction and the ]. This museum preserves several aircraft, including ] and ] fighters that defended the island in World War II.

] Airbus A319]]

The national airline is ], which is based at Malta International Airport and operates services to 36 destinations in Europe and North Africa. The owners of Air Malta are the ] (98%) and private investors (2%). Air Malta employs 1,547 staff. It has a 25% shareholding in ].

Air Malta has concluded over 191 interline ticketing agreements with other IATA airlines. It also has a codeshare agreement with ] covering three routes. In September 2007, Air Malta made two agreements with Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways by which Air Malta wet-leased two Airbus aircraft to ] for the winter period starting 1 September 2007, and provided operational support on another Airbus A320 aircraft which it leased to Etihad Airways.

===Communications===
The mobile penetration rate in Malta stood at 101.3% as at the end of 2009.<ref>, nso.gov.mt</ref> Malta uses the ]900 & UMTS(3G) mobile phone systems. This is compatible with the rest of the European countries, Australia and New Zealand.

There are no ]s in Malta, subscribers' numbers having eight digits. ] telephone numbers have the prefix '''21''' and '''27''' while mobile telephone numbers have the prefix '''79''', '''77''' or '''99'''. When calling Malta from abroad, one must first dial the international access code, then the country code +356 and the subscriber's number.

The number of pay TV subscribers fell in 2012 as subscribers cut the cord and began to rely increasingly on IPTV: the number of IPTV subscribers doubled in the six months to June 2012.

In late 2012 GO began expanding its FttH network and capabilities, offering speeds of up to 200Mbit/s for its 'rapido' service.

The government in early 2012 called for a national FttH network to be built, with a minimum broadband service being upgraded from 4Mbit/s to 100Mbit/s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.buddeblog.com.au/frompaulsdesk/investment-in-fibre-networks-stimulates-national-ftth-ambitions-in-malta/ |title=Investment in fibre networks stimulates national FttH ambitions in Malta – BuddeBlog |publisher=Buddeblog.com.au |date=6 November 2012 |accessdate=26 March 2013}}</ref>


===Currency=== ===Currency===
{{Main|Maltese euro coins|Euro gold and silver commemorative coins (Malta)}} {{Main|Maltese euro coins|Euro gold and silver commemorative coins (Malta)}}
] feature the ] on €2 and €1 coins, the ] on the €0.50, €0.20 and €0.10 coins, and the ] Temples on the €0.05, €0.02 and €0.01 coins.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymalta.com/wt/2006/06/maltese-cross-on-euro-coins.shtml|title=Maltese Cross on the Euro coins|work=Malta Media|date=12 June 2006|accessdate=12 October 2007}}</ref> ] feature the ] on €2 and €1 coins, the ] on the €0.50, €0.20 and €0.10 coins, and the ] Temples on the €0.05, €0.02 and €0.01 coins.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 June 2006 |title=Maltese Cross on the Euro coins |url=http://www.dailymalta.com/wt/2006/06/maltese-cross-on-euro-coins.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080410170038/http://www.dailymalta.com/wt/2006/06/maltese-cross-on-euro-coins.shtml |archive-date=10 April 2008 |access-date=12 October 2007 |website=Malta Media}}</ref>


Malta has produced collectors' coins with face value ranging from 10 to 50 euro. These coins continue an existing national practice of minting of silver and gold commemorative coins. Unlike normal issues, these coins are not legal tender in all the eurozone. For instance, a €10 Maltese commemorative coin cannot be used in any other country. Malta has produced collectors' coins with face value ranging from 10 to 50 euros. These coins continue an existing national practice of minting of silver and gold commemorative coins. Unlike normal issues, these coins are not accepted in all the eurozone.


From 1972 until introduction of the Euro in 2008, the currency was the ], which had replaced the ]. The pound replaced the ] in 1825. From its introduction in 1972 until the introduction of the Euro in 2008, the currency was the ], which had replaced the Maltese pound. The pound replaced the ] in 1825.


===Tourism=== ===Tourism===
] {{main|Tourism in Malta}}
]
Malta is a popular tourist destination, with 1.6&nbsp;million tourists per year.<ref></ref> Three times more tourists visit than there are residents. Tourism infrastructure has increased dramatically over the years and a number of good-quality hotels are present on the island, although overdevelopment and the destruction of traditional housing is of growing concern. An increasing number of Maltese now travel abroad on holiday.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=57309|title=More Maltese travel abroad|work=The Malta Independent|accessdate=12 October 2007}}</ref>


Malta is a popular tourist destination, with 1.6&nbsp;million tourists per year,<ref>{{Cite web |title=UNWTO Tourism Highlights, 2015 Edition |url=http://mkt.unwto.org/en/publication/unwto-tourism-highlights-2014-edition |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315072518/http://mkt.unwto.org/en/publication/unwto-tourism-highlights-2014-edition |archive-date=15 March 2015 |access-date=4 March 2015 |website=unwto.org}}</ref> three times more tourists visit than there are residents. Tourism infrastructure has increased dramatically over the years and a number of hotels are present on the island, although overdevelopment and the destruction of traditional housing is of growing concern. In 2019, Malta had a record year in tourism, recording over 2.1 million tourists in one single year.<ref>{{Cite web|date=7 November 2019|title=Malta braced for record number of tourists in 2019|url=https://bay.com.mt/malta-braced-for-record-number-of-tourists-in-2019/|access-date=3 August 2021|website=89.7 Bay|language=en-US|archive-date=3 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803221720/https://bay.com.mt/malta-braced-for-record-number-of-tourists-in-2019/}}</ref>
In recent years, Malta has advertised itself as a ] destination,<ref>http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=61027</ref> and a number of ]s are developing the industry. However, no Maltese hospital has undergone independent ]. Malta is popular with British medical tourists,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.treatmentabroad.net/medical-tourism/news/november-2007/malta-popular-with-uk-medical-tourists |title=Malta popular with UK medical tourists |publisher=Treatmentabroad.net |date=2 May 2008 |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref> pointing Maltese hospitals towards seeking UK-sourced accreditation, such as with the ]. Dual accreditation with the American-oriented ] is necessary if hospitals in Malta wish to compete with the Far East and Latin America for medical tourists from the United States.

In recent years, Malta has advertised itself as a ] destination,<ref>{{Cite web |title=M for Malta and medical tourism |url=http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=61027 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091216064632/http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=61027 |archive-date=16 December 2009 |access-date=7 January 2008}}</ref> and a number of ]s are developing the industry. However, no Maltese hospital has undergone independent ]. Malta is popular with British medical tourists,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 May 2008 |title=Malta popular with UK medical tourists |url=http://www.treatmentabroad.net/medical-tourism/news/november-2007/malta-popular-with-uk-medical-tourists |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091216023654/http://www.treatmentabroad.net/medical-tourism/news/november-2007/malta-popular-with-uk-medical-tourists/ |archive-date=16 December 2009 |access-date=31 March 2009 |website=Treatmentabroad.net}}</ref> pointing Maltese hospitals towards seeking UK-sourced accreditation, such as with the ].

Tourism in Malta contributes around 11.6 percent of the country's gross domestic product.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Malta Contribution of travel and tourism to GDP (% of GDP), 1995-2019 - knoema.com|url=https://knoema.com//atlas/Malta/topics/Tourism/Travel-and-Tourism-Total-Contribution-to-GDP/Contribution-of-travel-and-tourism-to-GDP-percent-of-GDP|access-date=3 August 2021|website=Knoema|language=en-US|archive-date=25 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220625082341/https://knoema.com//atlas/Malta/topics/Tourism/Travel-and-Tourism-Total-Contribution-to-GDP/Contribution-of-travel-and-tourism-to-GDP-percent-of-GDP|url-status=live}}</ref>


===Science and technology=== ===Science and technology===
Malta signed a co-operation agreement with the ] (ESA) for more-intensive co-operation in ESA projects.<ref name="Malta signs Cooperation Agreement with ESA">. Esa.int. Retrieved 7 June 2012.</ref> Malta signed a co-operation agreement with the ] (ESA) for more-intensive co-operation in ESA projects.<ref name="Malta signs Cooperation Agreement with ESA">{{cite web|url=http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEMH012YRYG_index_0.html|title= Malta signs Cooperation Agreement with ESA|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120226030046/http://www.esa.int/esaCP/SEMH012YRYG_index_0.html |archive-date=26 February 2012 |website=Esa.int|access-date= 7 June 2012}}</ref>
The Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST) is the civil body responsible for the development of science and technology on an educational and social level. Most science students in Malta graduate from the University of Malta and are represented by S-Cubed (Science Student's Society), UESA (University Engineering Students Association) and ICTSA (University of Malta ICT Students' Association).<ref>{{Cite web |title=SCubed – Science Student Society |url=http://www.scubed.org.mt/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702053422/http://www.scubed.org.mt/ |archive-date=2 July 2015 |access-date=1 July 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=ICTSA |url=http://www.ictsamalta.org/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702151353/http://www.ictsamalta.org/ |archive-date=2 July 2015 |access-date=1 July 2015 |website=ictsamalta.org}}</ref> Malta was ranked 29th in the ] in 2024.<ref>{{Cite book |author=] |year=2024 |title=Global Innovation Index 2024: Unlocking the Promise of Social Entrepreneurship |url=https://www.wipo.int/web-publications/global-innovation-index-2024/en/ |access-date=2024-10-06 |website=www.wipo.int |page=18 |publisher=World Intellectual Property Organization |language=en |doi=10.34667/tind.50062 |isbn=978-92-805-3681-2}}</ref>
The Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST) is the civil body responsible for the development of science and technology on an educational and social level.

===Poverty===
Poverty and social exclusion are problems in Malta, however the situation is not worse than the European Union average.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20111017/opinion/Maltese-living-in-poverty.389492 |title=Maltese living in poverty |work=The Times|location=Malta |accessdate=20 October 2013}}</ref>


==Demographics== ==Demographics==
{{Main|Demographics of Malta}} {{Main|Demographics of Malta}}
{{bar box
], Malta's historical capital city]]
|title=Self-identified racial origin - 2021 census<ref>{{Cite web |title=Census of Population and Housing 2021: Final Report: Population, migration and other social characteristics (Volume 1) |url=https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/ |date=16 February 2023 |access-date=5 February 2024 |website=nso.gov.mt |archive-date=4 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204200023/https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

|titlebar=#ddd
Malta conducts a census of population and housing every ten years. The census held in November 2005 counted an estimated 96% of the population.{{Citation needed|date=May 2011}} A preliminary report was issued in April 2006 and the results were weighted to estimate for 100% of the population.
|left1='''Racial origin'''

|float=right
Native ] make up the majority of the island. However, there are minorities, the largest of which are ], many of whom are retirees.
|bars=
<!--Note to Editors: All information, INCLUDING COMMENTARY, is from 2005 census except where indicated. Location for verification and for updating on next year's demographic review are commented.-->The population of Malta {{as of|lc=y|2011|07}} was estimated at 408,000.<ref name=cia/> {{As of|2005}}, 17% were aged 14 and under, 68% were within the 15–64 age bracket whilst the remaining 13% were 65 years and over<!--Table 8: Total population by broad age group and locality as at 27 November 2005-->. Malta's population density of 1,282 per square km (3,322/sq&nbsp;mi) <!--Table 6: Population density: 1995–2005-->is by far the highest in the EU<!--Table 15: Population density in Europe--> and one of the highest in the world. By comparison, the ] for the "] (land only, excluding ])" was 53&nbsp;km² as of July 2014.
{{bar percent|]|purple|89.1}}

{{bar percent|]|grey|5.2}}
The only census year showing a fall in population was that of 1967, with a 1.7% total decrease, attributable to a substantial number of Maltese residents who emigrated.<ref name="Census2005">{{cite book |authorlink=nso.gov.mt |title=Census of Population and Housing 2005: Preliminary Report |publisher=National Statistics Office |year=2005 |location=Valletta |url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=1653 |isbn=978-99909-73-38-9 |accessdate=20 September 2011}}</ref> The Maltese-resident population for 2004 was estimated to make up 97.0% of the total resident population.<ref name="Demo2004"/>
{{bar percent|]|maroon|1.7}}

{{bar percent|]|blue|1.5}}
All censuses since 1842 have shown a slight excess of females over males. The 1901 and 1911 censuses came closest to recording a balance<!-- (1000:1000 and 1003:1000 respectively) -->. The highest female-to-male ratio was reached in 1957 (1088:1000) but since then the ratio has dropped continuously. The 2005 census showed a 1013:1000 female-to-male ratio<!--Table 2: Population and sex ratio: 1842–2005-->.
{{bar percent|] or Latino|Gold|1.3}}
Population growth has slowed down, from +9.5% between the 1985 and 1995 censuses, to +6.9% between the 1995 and 2005 censuses (a yearly average of +0.7%)<!--Commentary p. xvii & Chart 3: Percentage population change between censuses-->. The birth rate stood at 3860 (a decrease of 21.8% from the 1995 census) and the death rate stood at 3025. Thus, there was a natural population increase of 835 (compared to +888 for 2004, of which over a hundred were foreign residents).<ref name="NSO 20060711">{{cite press release |title=World Population Day&nbsp;– 2006: Special Observances |publisher=National Statistics Office |location=Valletta |date=10 July 2006 |url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=1719 |accessdate=12 July 2006}}</ref>
{{bar percent|More than one racial origin|black|1.2}}

|caption=
] illuminations]]
}}
<!--May be used in any future section on the pension problem-->The population's age composition is similar to the age structure prevalent in the EU<!--Chart 11. Comparative distribution bet Malta and EU25-->. Since 1967 there was observed a trend indicating an ageing population, and is expected to continue in the foreseeable future. Malta's ] rose from 17.2% in 1995 to 19.8% in 2005, reasonably lower than the EU's 24.9% average; 31.5% of the Maltese population is aged under 25 (compared to the EU's 29.1%); but the 50–64 age group constitutes 20.3% of the population, significantly higher than the EU's 17.9%. Malta's old-age-dependency-ratio is expected to continue rising steadily in the coming years<!--Commentary p. xxvii-->.
As of the 2021 census, ]-born natives make up the majority of the island with 386,280 people out of a total population of 519,562.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Census of Population and Housing 2021: Final Report: Population, migration and other social characteristics (Volume 1)|url=https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/|date=16 February 2023|access-date=5 February 2024|website=nso.gov.mt|archive-date=4 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204200023/https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/|url-status=live}}</ref> However, there are minorities, the largest of which by birthplace were: 15,082 from the United Kingdom, Italy (13,361), India (7,946), Philippines (7,784) and Serbia (5,935). Among racial origins for the non-Maltese, 58.1% of all identified as Caucasian, 22.2% Asian, 6.3% Arab, 6.0% African, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino and 2.9% more than one race.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Census of Population and Housing 2021: Final Report: Population, migration and other social characteristics (Volume 1)|url=https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/|date=16 February 2023|access-date=5 February 2024|website=nso.gov.mt|archive-date=4 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204200023/https://nso.gov.mt/mt/themes_publications/census-of-population-and-housing-2021-final-report-population-migration-and-other-social-characteristics/|url-status=live}}</ref>


{{As of|2005}}, 17 percent were aged 14 and under, 68 percent were within the 15–64 age bracket whilst the remaining 13 percent were 65 years and over<!--Table 8: Total population by broad age group and locality as at 27 November 2005-->. Malta's population density of 1,282 per square km (3,322/sq&nbsp;mi) <!--Table 6: Population density: 1995–2005-->is by far the highest in the EU<!--Table 15: Population density in Europe--> and one of the highest in the world.
Maltese legislation recognises both civil and canonical (ecclesiastical) marriages. Annulments by the ecclesiastical and civil courts are unrelated and are not necessarily mutually endorsed. Malta voted in favour of divorce legislation in a referendum held on 28 May 2011.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-13588834 |title=BBC News&nbsp;– Malta votes 'Yes' in divorce referendum |publisher=BBC |date=29 May 2011|accessdate=1 June 2011}}</ref> Abortion in Malta is illegal. A person must be 16 to marry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://docs.justice.gov.mt/lom/legislation/english/leg/vol_6/chapt255.pdf |title=Chapter 255. Marriage Act |publisher=Docs.justice.gov.mt |accessdate=14 November 2010}}</ref> The number of brides aged under 25 decreased from 1471 in 1997 to 766 in 2005; while the number of grooms under 25 decreased from 823 to 311. There is a constant trend that females are more likely than males to marry young. In 2005 there were 51 brides aged between 16 and 19, compared to 8 grooms.<ref name="NSO 20060711"/>
]
The Maltese-resident population for 2004 was estimated to make up 97.0 per cent of the total resident population.<ref name="Demo2004">{{Cite book |last=National Statistics Office |url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=1542 |title=Demographic Review 2004 |publisher=National Statistics Office |year=2005 |isbn=978-99909-73-32-7 |page=59 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060907101948/http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=1542 |archive-date=7 September 2006 }}</ref> All censuses since 1842 have shown a slight excess of females over males. Population growth has slowed down, from +9.5 per cent between the 1985 and 1995 censuses, to +6.9 per cent between the 1995 and 2005 censuses (a yearly average of +0.7 per cent)<!--Commentary p. xvii & Chart 3: Percentage population change between censuses-->. The birth rate stood at 3860 (a decrease of 21.8 per cent from the 1995 census) and the death rate stood at 3025. Thus, there was a natural population increase of 835 (compared to +888 for 2004, of which over a hundred were foreign residents).<ref name="NSO 20060711">{{Cite press release |title=World Population Day&nbsp;– 2006: Special Observances |date=10 July 2006 |publisher=National Statistics Office |url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=1719 |access-date=12 July 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927190022/http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=1719 |archive-date=27 September 2007 }}</ref>
<!--May be used in any future section on the pension problem-->The population's age composition is similar to the age structure prevalent in the EU<!--Chart 11. Comparative distribution bet Malta and EU25-->. Malta's ] rose from 17.2 percent in 1995 to 19.8 percent in 2005, reasonably lower than the EU's 24.9 percent average; 31.5 percent of the Maltese population is aged under 25 (compared to the EU's 29.1 percent); but the 50–64 age group constitutes 20.3 percent of the population, significantly higher than the EU's 17.9 percent. Malta's old-age-dependency-ratio is expected to continue rising steadily in the coming years<!--Commentary p. xxvii-->.


In 2021, the population of the Maltese Islands stood at 519,562.<ref name="NSO" />
At the end of 2007 the population of the Maltese Islands stood at 410,290 and is expected to reach 424,028 by 2025. At the moment, females slightly outnumber males, making up 50.3 per cent of the population. The largest proportion of persons{{spaced ndash}}7.5 per cent{{spaced ndash}}were aged 25–29, while there were 7.3% falling into each of the 45–49 and 55–59 age brackets.<ref>. Times of Malta (12 July 2008).</ref>


The ] (TFR) as of 2013 was estimated at 1.53 children born/woman, which is below the replacement rate of 2,1.<ref name="cia.gov">https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mt.html</ref> In 2012, 25.8% of births were to unmarried women.<ref>http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/table.do?tab=table&plugin=1&language=en&pcode=tps00018</ref> The ] in 2013 was estimated at 79.98 years (77.69 years male, 82.41 years female).<ref name="cia.gov"/> The ] (TFR) {{As of|2016||lc=y|since=}} was estimated at 1.45 children born/woman, which is below the replacement rate of 2.1.<ref name="cia.gov">{{Cite web |title=The World Factbook – Central Intelligence Agency |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/malta/ |access-date=16 May 2007 |website=The World Factbook |archive-date=2 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402195116/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/malta/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2012, 25.8 per cent of births were to unmarried women.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eurostat – Tables, Graphs and Maps Interface (TGM) table |url=http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/table.do?tab=table&plugin=1&language=en&pcode=tps00018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006114113/http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/table.do?tab=table&plugin=1&language=en&pcode=tps00018 |archive-date=6 October 2014 |website=Europa (web portal)}}</ref> The ] in 2018 was estimated at 83.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Key Figures For Malta 2019 – Visuals & Word |url=https://nso.gov.mt/en/nso/Media/Salient-Points-of-Publications/Documents/Key%20Figures%20for%20Malta%20-%202019%20Edition/Malta%20In%20Figures%20-%202019.pdf |access-date=31 January 2020 |publisher=National Statistics Office – Malta |archive-date=22 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220322014632/https://nso.gov.mt/en/nso/Media/Salient-Points-of-Publications/Documents/Key%20Figures%20for%20Malta%20-%202019%20Edition/Malta%20In%20Figures%20-%202019.pdf }}</ref>


===Languages=== ===Languages===
{{Main|Languages of Malta}} {{Main|Languages of Malta}}
{{See also|#Languages in education}} {{See also|#Education}}
]'' by ], the oldest text in ], 15th century]]
The ] ({{lang-mt|Malti}}) is the constitutional ] of Malta, having become official, however, only in 1934. Previously, Italian was the official and cultural language of Malta, in its ] variant from the 12th century, and in its ] variant from the 16th century. Alongside Maltese, English (imposed by the British occupiers after 1800) is also an official language of the country and hence the laws of the land are enacted both in Maltese and English. However, the Constitution states that if there is any conflict between the Maltese and the English texts of any law, the Maltese text shall prevail. The Constitution (clause 5 -2) also provides for the introduction of another official language; this was originally intended as a loophole for the possible reintroduction of Italian as the traditional partner of Maltese at an opportune time.
The ] ({{langx|mt|Malti}}) is one of the two constitutional ] of Malta and is considered the national language. The second official language is English and hence laws are enacted both in Maltese and English. However, article 74 of the Constitution states that "if there is any conflict between the Maltese and the English texts of any law, the Maltese text shall prevail."<ref name="constitution" /> Many speakers of English use a local dialect, ].


Maltese is a ] descended from the now defunct Sicilian-Arabic (]) dialect (from ]).<ref name=MED>Joseph M. Brincat , MED Magazine (February 2005)</ref> The ] consists of 30 letters based on the ], including the ]ally altered letters '']'', '']'' and '']'', as well as the letters '']'', '']'', and '']''. Maltese is a ] descended from the now extinct Sicilian-Arabic (]) dialect (from ]) that developed during the ].<ref name="MED">Joseph M. Brincat {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208063739/http://macmillandictionaries.com/MED-Magazine/February2005/27-LI-Maltese.htm |date=8 December 2015 }}, MED Magazine (February 2005)</ref> The ] consists of 30 letters based on the ].


In 2022, Malta National Statistics Office states that 90 percent of the Maltese population has at least a basic knowledge of Maltese, 96 percent of English, 62 percent of Italian, and 20 percent of French.<ref name="skills2022"/> This widespread knowledge of ]s makes Malta one of the most multilingual countries in the ]. A study collecting public opinion on what language was "preferred" discovered that 86 percent of the population preferred Maltese, 12 percent English, and 2 percent Italian.<ref name=LinguisticView/> Italian television channels from Italy-based broadcasters, such as ] and ], reach Malta and remain popular.<ref name="LinguisticView">Ignasi Badia i Capdevila (2004) . NovesSl. Retrieved 24 February 2008</ref><ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120607062334/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/country_profiles/1045691.stm |date=7 June 2012 }}. BBC News</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=September 2005 |title=Europeans and languages |url=http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_237.en.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070128095746/http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_237.en.pdf |archive-date=28 January 2007 |access-date=29 January 2007 |publisher=European Commission |page=4}}</ref>
Maltese has a Semitic base with substantial borrowing from ], Italian, a little French, and more recently and increasingly, English.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aboutmalta.com/grazio/study2.html|title=Evolution of the Maltese Language}}</ref> The hybrid character of Maltese was established by a long period of Maltese-Sicilian urban bilingualism gradually transforming rural speech and which ended in the early 19th century with Maltese emerging as the vernacular of the entire native population. The language includes different dialects that can vary greatly from one town to another or from one island to another.


] is used by signers in Malta.<ref name="paggio">{{Cite book |last1=Paggio |first1=Patrizia |url=http://langsci-press.org/catalog/book/182 |title=The languages of Malta |last2=Gatt |first2=Albert |date=2018 |publisher=Language Science Press |isbn=978-3-96110-070-5 |veditors=Paggio P, Gatt A |format=pdf |doi=10.5281/zenodo.1181783 |access-date=15 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181115195121/http://langsci-press.org/catalog/book/182 |archive-date=15 November 2018 |url-status=live |doi-access=free}}</ref>
The ] states that 100% of the population speak Maltese. Also, 88% of the population speak English, 66% speak Italian, and 17% speak French.<ref>, 2006</ref> This widespread knowledge of ]s makes Malta one of the most multilingual countries in the ]. A study collecting public opinion on what language was "preferred" discovered that 86% of the population express a preference for Maltese, 12% for English, and 2% for Italian.<ref name=LinguisticView/> Still, Italian television channels from Italy-based broadcasters, such as ] and ], reach Malta and remain popular.<ref name=LinguisticView>Ignasi Badia i Capdevila; ; NovesSl; 2004. Retrieved 24 February 2008</ref><ref>. BBC News</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_237.en.pdf |title=Europeans and languages |accessdate=29 January 2007 |date=September 2005 |format=PDF |publisher=European Commission |page=4}}</ref>


===Religion=== ===Religion===
{{Main|Religion in Malta}} {{Main |Religion in Malta}}
{{Further|History of the Jews in Malta|Christianity in Malta|Islam in Malta}} {{Further |History of the Jews in Malta|Christianity in Malta|Islam in Malta}}
{{Pie chart
|thumb = right
|caption = Religion in Malta (2021 census)<ref name="2021 census-2">{{Cite web|url=https://nso.gov.mt/en/nso/Media/Salient-Points-of-Publications/Documents/2023/Census%20of%20Population%202021%20volume1-final.pdf|title=Census of Population and Housing 2021 Final report: Religious Affiliation, pages 159-168|website=nso.gov.mt|archive-date=19 February 2023|access-date=22 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230219094017/https://nso.gov.mt/en/nso/Media/Salient-Points-of-Publications/Documents/2023/Census%20of%20Population%202021%20volume1-final.pdf}}</ref><ref name="Census statistics"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/121338/census_2021_maltese_citizens_overwhelmingly_identify_as_roman_catholics#.Y_aUpXbP02w|title=Census 2021: Maltese citizens overwhelmingly identify as Roman Catholics|website=maltatoday.com.mt|language=en|access-date=22 February 2023|archive-date=22 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230222221916/https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/121338/census_2021_maltese_citizens_overwhelmingly_identify_as_roman_catholics#.Y_aUpXbP02w|url-status=live}}</ref>
|label1 = ]
|value1 = 82.6
|color1 = Dodgerblue
|label2 = ]
|value2 = 3.6
|color2 = Orchid
|label3 = ]
|value3 = 1.3
|color3 = red
|label4 = Other ]
|value4 = 1
|color4 = Purple
|label5 = ]
|value5 = 3.9
|color5 = Green
|label6 = ]
|value6 = 1.4
|color6 = Orange
|label7 = ]
|value7 = 0.5
|color7 = DeepSkyBlue
|label8 = Judaism
|value8 = 0.3
|color8 = yellow
|label9 = Other religious groups
|value9 = 0.04
|color9 = black
|label10 = No religion
|value10 = 5.1
|color10 = mint
}}


The predominant religion in Malta is ]. The second article of the ] establishes Roman Catholicism as the ] and it is also reflected in various elements of ], although there are ] for the freedom of religion.<ref name="constitution" /> There are more than 360 churches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino, or one church for every 1,000 residents. The parish church (Maltese: ''"il-parroċċa"'', or ''"il-knisja parrokkjali"'') is the architectural and geographic focal point of every Maltese town and village.
]]]
The Constitution of Malta declares ] as the state religion although ] for the freedom of religion are made. Freedom House and the ] report that 98% of the population is Catholic.


Malta is an ]; the ] (]) tells of how ] was shipwrecked on the island of "Melite", which many Biblical scholars identify with Malta, an episode dated around AD 60.<ref name="doi.gov.mt">{{Cite web |date=3 March 2008 |title=Department of Information |url=http://www.doi.gov.mt/EN/islands/dates.asp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091125021207/http://www.doi.gov.mt/EN/islands/dates.asp |archive-date=25 November 2009 |access-date=2 August 2008 |website=Doi.gov.mt}}</ref> The first Maltese saint, ] is said to have been made Malta's first bishop. Further evidence of Christian practices and beliefs during the period of Roman persecution appears in ] that lie beneath various sites around Malta, including ]. There are also a number of cave churches, including the grotto at ], which is a Shrine of the Nativity of Our Lady where, according to legend, ] painted a picture of the ]. It has been a place of pilgrimage since the medieval period.
There are more than 360 churches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino, or one church for every 1,000 residents. The parish church (Maltese: ''"il-parroċċa"'', or ''"il-knisja parrokkjali"'') is the architectural and geographic focal point of every Maltese town and village, and its main source of civic pride. This civic pride manifests itself in spectacular fashion during the local village ''festas'', which mark the day of the patron saint of each parish with marching bands, religious processions, special ], ] (especially petards), and other festivities.
] known as "Ir-Rotunda"]]


For centuries, the Church in Malta was subordinate to the ], except when it was under ], who appointed bishops for Malta, as did&nbsp;– on rare occasions&nbsp;– the Spanish and later, the Knights. Since 1808 all ] have been Maltese. The patron saints of Malta are ], ], and ]. Although not a patron saint, ] (San Ġorġ Preca) is greatly revered as the second canonised Maltese saint after St. Publius. Various Roman Catholic religious orders are present in Malta, including the ], ], ], ] and ].
Malta is an ]; the ] tells of how ], on his way from Jerusalem to Rome to face trial, was shipwrecked on the island of "Melite", which many Bible scholars identify with Malta, an episode dated around AD 60.<ref name="doi.gov.mt"/> As recorded in The Acts of the Apostles, St. Paul spent three months on the island on his way to Rome, curing the sick including the father of Publius, the "chief man of the island". Various traditions are associated with this account. The shipwreck is said to have occurred in the place today known as ]. The Maltese saint, ] is said to have been made Malta's first bishop and a grotto in ], now known as "St Paul's Grotto" (and in the vicinity of which evidence of Christian burials and rituals from the 3rd century AD has been found), is among the earliest known places of Christian worship on the island.


There exists a considerable minority of ] in Malta, of which there are 16,457, according to the 2021 census;<ref>{{cite report |url=https://nso.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/Census-of-Population-2021-volume1-final.pdf |title=Census of Population and Housing 2021: Final Report: Population, Migration and Other Social Characteristics |publisher=National Statistics Office, Malta |location=Valletta |date=2023 |access-date=5 October 2024 |isbn=978-9918-605-14-9 |page=159}}</ref> although the number may also include ]s, who are not in ] with the former. There are a small number of parishes belonging to each ], typically one for each. There are ], ], ], ], and ] parishes located around Malta.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ecumenical Patriarchate Holy Patriarchal Exarchate of Malta |url=https://www.exarmalta.com/}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Russian Orthodox Parish of St. Paul the Apostle - Churches-Orthodox in San Gwann, Malta {{!}} Yellow Malta |url=https://www.yellow.com.mt/russian-orthodox-parish-of-st-paul-the-apostle_churches-orthodox+san-gwann/ |access-date=2024-08-14 |website=www.yellow.com.mt |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Парохија Св. Ап. Павла и Св. Никола на Малти {{!}} Епархија Аустрије, Швајцарске, Италије и Малте |url=https://spcmalta.com/ |access-date=2024-08-14 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Romanian Orthodox Church Malta {{!}} orthodox church {{!}} The Church of Saint Rocco, 107 , Saint Ursula Street , Valletta , Malta |url=https://www.romanianchurchmalta.com/ |access-date=2024-08-14 |website=Romanian Orthodox |language=en}}</ref>
Further evidence of Christian practices and beliefs during the period of Roman persecution appears in ] that lie beneath various sites around Malta, including St Paul's Catacombs and St Agatha's Catacombs in Rabat, just outside the walls of ]. The latter, in particular, were beautifully frescoed between 1200 and 1480, although marauding ] defaced many of them in the 1550s. There are also a number of cave churches, including the grotto at ], which is a Shrine of the Nativity of Our Lady where, according to legend, ] painted a picture of the ]. It has been a place of pilgrimage since ] times.


Most congregants of the local ] churches are not Maltese; their congregations mainly draw on vacationers and British retirees living in the country. There are also a ] church in ], and a ] congregation founded in 1983 in ].<ref name="archive.maltatoday.com.mt">{{cite web |last=Vassallo |first=Harry |date=8 April 2009 |url=http://archive.maltatoday.com.mt/2009/04/08/t5.html |title=A map of faith in Malta |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016010540/http://archive.maltatoday.com.mt/2009/04/08/t5.html |archive-date=16 October 2015 |work=MaltaToday |access-date=1 May 2017}}</ref> There are approximately 600 ].<ref>{{Cite book |title=Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses |publisher=Watch Tower Society |year=2015 |page=182}}</ref> ] is also represented with 241 members in 1 congregation in ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Statistics and Church Facts {{!}} Total Church Membership |url=https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/facts-and-statistics/country/malta |access-date=2024-10-01 |website=newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org}}</ref>
The Acts of the ] record that in 451 AD, a certain Acacius was Bishop of Malta (''Melitenus Episcopus''). It is also known that in 501 AD, a certain Constantinus, ''Episcopus Melitenensis'', was present at the ]. In 588 AD, ] deposed Tucillus, ''Miletinae civitatis episcopus'', and the clergy and people of Malta elected his successor Trajan in 599 AD. The last recorded Bishop of Malta before the invasion of the Islands was a Greek named Manas, who was subsequently incarcerated at ].<ref>http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/09574a.htm</ref>
]'', by ]. Oil on canvas, {{convert|361|x|520|cm|2|abbr=on|lk=out}}. Oratory of the ]]]
The Jewish population of Malta reached its peak in the Middle Ages under Norman rule. In 1479, Malta and ] came under ] rule and the ] of 1492 forced all Jews to leave the country. Today, there are two Jewish congregations.<ref name="archive.maltatoday.com.mt" /> In 2019 the Jewish community in Malta gathered around 150 persons, slightly more than the 120 (of which 80 were active) estimated in 2003, and mostly elderly. Many among the newer generations decided to settle abroad, including in England and Israel. Most contemporary Maltese Jews are Sephardi, however, an Ashkenazi prayer book is used. In 2013 the Chabad Jewish Centre in Malta was founded.


There is one purpose-built Muslim ], the ], although there are also a few improvised mosques located in Muslim homes spread around the island.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bugibba Mosque - Opening Hours, Reviews & Photos |url=https://www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/st-paul-s-bay/bugibba-mosque-141756431?curr=SAR&locale=en-US |access-date=2024-10-01 |website=TRIP.COM |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Facebook |url=https://www.facebook.com/people/Bugibba-Mosque-%D9%85%D8%B5%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%AC%D9%8A%D8%A8%D8%A7/61557732665236/ |access-date=2024-10-01 |website=www.facebook.com}}</ref> Of the estimated 3,000 ], approximately 2,250 are foreigners, approximately 600 are naturalised citizens, and approximately 150 are native-born Maltese.<ref>{{Cite web |title=International Religious Freedom Report 2003 – Malta |url=https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2003/24422.htm |access-date=9 January 2008 |publisher=], ] |archive-date=25 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220625004310/https://2001-2009.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2003/24422.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
Maltese historian, ], states that following their conversion to Christianity at the hand of ], the Maltese retained their Christian religion, despite the ] invasion.<ref>G.F. Abela, ''Della Descrittione di Malta, (1647) Malta''.</ref> Abela's writings describe Malta as a divinely ordained "bulwark of Christian, European civilization against the spread of Mediterranean Islam".<ref>A. Luttrell, ''The Making of Christian Malta: From the Early Middle Ages to 1530'', Aldershot, Hants.: Ashgate Varorium, 2002 ISBN 0860788490.</ref> The native Christian community that welcomed ]<ref name="malticross"/> was further bolstered by immigration to Malta from Italy, in the 12th and 13th centuries.
] and the ] claim some 40 members.<ref name="archive.maltatoday.com.mt" />


In a survey held by ], the overwhelming majority of the Maltese population adheres to Christianity (95.2%) with ] as the main denomination (93.9%); 4.5% of the population declared themselves either atheist or agnostic, one of the lowest figures in Europe.<ref name="2018 survey">{{Cite web |title=MaltaToday Survey {{!}} Maltese identity still very much rooted in Catholicism |url=http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/data_and_surveys/85738/maltatoday_survey__maltese_identity_still_very_much_rooted_in_catholicism |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190326134607/https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/data_and_surveys/85738/maltatoday_survey__maltese_identity_still_very_much_rooted_in_catholicism |archive-date=26 March 2019 |access-date=26 March 2019 |website=MaltaToday.com.mt |language=en}}</ref> According to a 2019 ] survey, 83% of the population identified as Roman Catholic.<ref name="2019 Eurobarometer">{{Cite web |title=Special Eurobarometer 493, European Union: European Commission, September 2019, pages 229–230 |url=https://ec.europa.eu/commfrontoffice/publicopinion/index.cfm/Survey/getSurveyDetail/instruments/SPECIAL/surveyKy/2251 |access-date=3 October 2020 |website=ec.europa.eu |language=en |archive-date=11 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311010736/https://ec.europa.eu/commfrontoffice/publicopinion/index.cfm/Survey/getSurveyDetail/instruments/SPECIAL/surveyKy/2251 |url-status=live }}</ref> The number of ] has doubled from 2014 to 2018. ] people have a higher risk of suffering from discrimination. In the 2015 edition of the annual ] from the ], Malta was in the category of "severe discrimination". In 2016, following the ], Malta was shifted to the category of "systematic discrimination" (same as most EU countries).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ganado |first=Philip Leone |date=9 December 2016 |title=Malta still discriminating against the non-religious – report |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20161209/local/malta-still-discriminating-against-the-non-religious-report.633311 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161210140814/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20161209/local/malta-still-discriminating-against-the-non-religious-report.633311 |archive-date=10 December 2016 |website=]}}</ref>
] city centre Parish church]]
For centuries, the Church in Malta was subordinate to the ], except when it was under ], who appointed bishops for Malta, as did&nbsp;– on rare occasions&nbsp;– the Spanish and later, the Knights. Since 1808 all bishops of Malta have been Maltese. As a result of the ] and Spanish periods, and the rule of the Knights, Malta became the devout Catholic nation that it is today. It is worth noting that the Office of the ] had a very long tenure on the island following its establishment in 1530: the last Inquisitor departed from the Islands in 1798, after the Knights capitulated to the forces of ]. During the period of the ], several Maltese families emigrated to ]. Their descendants account for about two-thirds of the community of some 4000 Catholics that now live on that island.


===Migration===
The patron saints of Malta are ], ], and ]. Although not a patron saint, ] (San Ġorġ Preca) is greatly revered as the second canonised Maltese saint after ] Malta‘s first acknowledged saint (canonised in the year 1634) . ] canonised him on 3 June 2007. Also, a number of Maltese individuals are recognised as ], including ] and ], with ] having ] them in 2001.
{{main|Immigration to Malta|Emigration from Malta}}
{| class="toc" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width:25%; float:right; text-align:center; clear:all; margin-left:8px; font-size:90%;"
|-
! colspan="20" style="background:green; color:white;"|Foreign population in Malta
|- style="background:#efefef;"
!width=15% |Year
!width=60% |Population
!width=25% |% total
|-
|2005
|12,112
|3.0%
|-
|2011
|20,289
|4.9%
|-
|2019
|98,918
|21.0%
|-
|2020
|119,261
|23.17%
|-
|}


Historically a land of emigration, since the early 21st century Malta has seen a significant increase in net migration; the foreign-born population has grown nearly eightfold between 2005 and 2020. Most of the foreign community in Malta consists of active or retired British nationals and their dependents, centred on ] and surrounding suburbs. Other smaller foreign groups include Italians, Libyans, and Serbians, many of whom have assimilated into the ] over the decades.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ltd |first=Allied Newspapers |title=Genetic origin of contemporary Maltese |date=5 August 2007 |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20070805/opinion/genetic-origin-of-contemporary-maltese |access-date=29 October 2017 |archive-date=13 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413212844/https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20070805/opinion/genetic-origin-of-contemporary-maltese |url-status=live }}</ref>
Various Roman Catholic religious orders are present in Malta, including the ], ], ] and ].


Malta is also home to a large number of foreign workers who migrated to the island for economic opportunity. This migration was driven predominantly in the early 21st century, when the Maltese economy was steadily booming yet the cost and quality of living on the island remained relatively stable. In recent years however the local Maltese housing index has doubled<ref>{{Cite web |title=Real Economy Indicators |url=https://www.centralbankmalta.org/site/Subscriber%20Categories/Real%20Economy%20Indicators/house_prices.xls |publisher=Malta Central Bank |access-date=28 December 2019 |archive-date=7 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107152921/https://www.centralbankmalta.org/site/Subscriber%20Categories/Real%20Economy%20Indicators/house_prices.xls |url-status=live }}</ref> pushing property and rental prices to very high and almost unaffordable levels. Consequently, some expats in Malta have seen their relative financial fortunes decline, with others relocating to other European countries altogether.
Most congregants of the local ] churches are not Maltese; their congregations draw on the many British retirees living in the country and vacationers from many other nations. There are approximately 600 ].<ref>{{cite book|title=2015 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses|publisher=Watch Tower Society|page=182}}</ref> ] (LDS Church), the ], and the ] each have about 60 affiliates. There are also some churches of other denominations, including ] in Valletta (a joint ] and ] congregation) and ], and a ] church in ]. A ] congregation was founded in 1983 in Gwardamangia.


Since the late 20th century, Malta has become a transit country for migration routes from Africa towards Europe.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Malta guards Europe's gates against African immigrants |work=] |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2010-oct-09-la-fg-malta-refugees-20101009-story.html |url-status=live |access-date=30 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310075319/http://articles.latimes.com/2010/oct/09/world/la-fg-malta-refugees-20101009 |archive-date=10 March 2012}}</ref> As a member of the ] and the ], Malta is bound by the ] to process all claims for asylum by those asylum seekers that enter EU territory for the first time in Malta.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Maltese Anger Mounts Over Rising Illegal Immigration |publisher=] |url=http://www.dw.de/dw/article/0,,3621641,00.html |access-date=30 April 2012}}</ref> However, irregular migrants who land in Malta are subject to a ], being held in several camps organised by the ] (AFM), including those near ] and ]. The compulsory detention policy has been denounced by several NGOs, and in July 2010, the ] found that Malta's detention of migrants was arbitrary, lacking in adequate procedures to challenge detention, and in breach of its obligations under the ].<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 July 2012 |title=Malta: Migrant Detention Violates Rights |url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2012/07/18/malta-migrant-detention-violates-rights |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160314162400/https://www.hrw.org/news/2012/07/18/malta-migrant-detention-violates-rights |archive-date=14 March 2016 |access-date=29 October 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Malta faces problems with children of illegal immigrants |work=] |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080610/local/malta-faces-problems-with-children-of-illegal-immigrants.211803 |url-status=live |access-date=30 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510111154/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080610/local/malta-faces-problems-with-children-of-illegal-immigrants.211803 |archive-date=10 May 2011}}</ref> On 8 September 2020, ] criticised Malta for "illegal tactics" in the Mediterranean, against immigrants who were attempting to cross from North Africa. The reports claimed that the government's approach might have led to avoidable deaths.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Amnesty slams Malta over 'illegal' refugee tactics |url=https://www.dw.com/en/amnesty-slams-malta-over-illegal-refugee-tactics/a-54848334 |access-date=8 September 2020 |website=Deutsche Welle |archive-date=8 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200908180011/https://www.dw.com/en/amnesty-slams-malta-over-illegal-refugee-tactics/a-54848334 |url-status=live }}</ref>
The Jewish population of Malta reached its peak in the Middle Ages under Norman rule. In 1479, Malta and ] came under ] rule and the ] of 1492 forced all Jews to leave the country, permitting them to take with them only a few of their belongings. Several dozen Maltese Jews may have ] to Christianity at the time to remain in the country. Today, there is one Jewish congregation.


In January 2014, Malta started granting citizenship for a €650,000 contribution plus investments, contingent on residence and criminal background checks.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Clenfield, Jason |date=11 March 2015 |title=Passport King Christian Kalin Helps Nations Sell Citizenship – Bloomberg Business |newspaper=Bloomberg.com |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-03-11/passport-king-christian-kalin-helps-nations-sell-citizenship |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406182941/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-03-11/passport-king-christian-kalin-helps-nations-sell-citizenship |archive-date=6 April 2017 |access-date=8 March 2017 |publisher=Bloomberg L.P.}}</ref> This "]" citizenship scheme has been criticized as a fraudulent act by the Maltese Government.{{clarification needed|Is the granting critised by the same government that applies it??|date=December 2022}}<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 January 2019 |title=EU to warn about crime risks from passport selling schemes in Malta |work=Malta Independent |url=https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-01-22/local-news/EU-to-warn-about-crime-risks-from-passport-selling-schemes-in-Malta-and-Cyprus-6736202453 |url-status=live |access-date=28 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191228134703/https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2019-01-22/local-news/EU-to-warn-about-crime-risks-from-passport-selling-schemes-in-Malta-and-Cyprus-6736202453 |archive-date=28 December 2019}}</ref> Concerns as to whether the Maltese citizenship scheme is allowing an influx of such individuals into the greater European Union have been raised by both the public as well as the European Council on multiple occasions.<ref>{{Cite news |title=EU urges crackdown on 'golden passports' for big investors |publisher=BBC |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-46973590 |url-status=live |access-date=28 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191217180746/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-46973590 |archive-date=17 December 2019}}</ref>
] and the ] claim some 40 members.


], commemorating the 310 child migrants who travelled to Australia between 1950 and 1965]]
There is one Muslim mosque. A Muslim primary school recently opened; its existence remains a point of some controversy. Of the estimated 3,000 ], approximately 2,250 are foreigners, approximately 600 are naturalised citizens, and approximately 150 are native-born Maltese.<ref>{{cite web
In the 19th century, most emigration from Malta was to North Africa and the Middle East, although rates of ] to Malta were high.<ref name="Jones">{{Cite journal |last=Jones |first=Huw R. |year=1973 |title=Modern emigration from Malta |journal=Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers |volume=60 |issue=60 |pages=101–119 |doi=10.2307/621508 |jstor=621508}}</ref> In the 20th century, most emigrants went to destinations in the ], particularly to Australia, Canada, and the United States. Post Second World War, Malta's Emigration Department would assist emigrants with the cost of their travel. Between 1948 and 1967, 30 percent of the population emigrated.<ref name=Jones/> Between 1946 and the late-1970s, over 140,000 people left Malta on the assisted passage scheme, with 57.6% migrating to Australia, 22% to the UK, 13% to Canada and 7% to the United States.<ref name="King">{{Cite journal |last=King |first=Russell |year=1979 |title=The Maltese migration cycle: An archival survey |journal=Area |volume=11 |issue=3 |pages=245–249 |jstor=20001477}}</ref> Emigration dropped dramatically after the mid-1970s and has since ceased to be a social phenomenon of significance. However, since Malta joined the EU in 2004 ] communities emerged in a number of European countries, particularly in Belgium and ].
|url=http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2003/24422.htm
|title=International Religious Freedom Report 2003{{spaced ndash}}Malta
|accessdate=9 January 2008
|publisher=], ]}}</ref>


===Migration=== ===Education===
{{Main|Education in Malta}}
{{See also|List of schools in Malta}}
]]]
] in Valletta]]


Primary schooling has been compulsory since 1946; secondary education up to the age of sixteen was made compulsory in 1971. The state and the ] provide education free of charge, both running a number of schools in Malta and ]. {{As of|2006}}, state schools are organised into networks known as Colleges and incorporate kindergarten schools, primary and secondary schools. A number of private schools are run in Malta. St. Catherine's High School, Pembroke offers an International Foundation Course for students wishing to learn English before entering mainstream education. {{As of|2008}}, there are two international schools, Verdala International School and QSI Malta. The state pays a portion of the teachers' salary in Church schools.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Education in Malta |url=http://www.aboutmalta.com/grazio/education.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071015203042/http://www.aboutmalta.com/grazio/education.html |archive-date=15 October 2007 |access-date=12 October 2007 |website=aboutmalta.com}}</ref>
====Inbound migration====
] refugee camp.]]


Education in Malta is based on the ]. Primary school lasts six years. Pupils sit for SEC ] examinations at the age of 16, with passes obligatory in mathematics, a minimum of one science subject, English and ]. Pupils may opt to continue studying at a ] for two years, at the end of which students sit for the matriculation examination. Subject to their performance, students may then apply for an undergraduate ] or diploma.
As an EU member state and a party to the ], Malta applies the ]. This means that to enter the country:
*Nationals of the EU and the ] (], ] and ]) and their special territories and of ] require only a passport or a national identity card. Except for Croatian nationals, citizens of this category of countries do not require a ] to stay and work legally in Malta.<ref name="WorkPermits">{{cite web| url=http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/work/abroad/work-permits/index_en.htm|title=EU Work permits and restrictions to labour market in EU countries-Your Europe|publisher= European Commission|date= October 2012|accessdate=October 2012}}</ref>
*Nationals of a number of non-EU and non-EEA countries (most countries of the ], most countries of the American continent, Australia, ], ], ] and Japan) require only a passport and do not need a ] to reside in Malta for less than 90 days.
*Nationals of other countries need a passport and a ] to enter the country, visas being valid for one month.


The adult ] is 99.5 per cent.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta – Literacy rate |url=http://www.indexmundi.com/facts/malta/literacy-rate |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130926154318/http://www.indexmundi.com/facts/malta/literacy-rate |archive-date=26 September 2013 |access-date=20 October 2013 |website=Indexmundi.com}}</ref><!-- This section is linked to from the "Languages" section above. If changing the section title, update the link as well. -->
<!--Add statistics on legal immigration and emigration-->The estimated net inflow (using data for 2002 to 2004) was of 1,913 persons yearly. Over the last 10 years, Malta accepted back a yearly average of 425 returning emigrants.<ref name="Demo2004">{{cite book |last=National Statistics Office|title=Demographic Review 2004 |publisher=National Statistics Office |year=2005 |location=Valletta |url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=1542 |isbn=99909-73-32-6 |page=59}}</ref>


Maltese and English are both used to teach pupils at the primary and secondary school level, and both languages are also compulsory subjects. ] tend to use both Maltese and English in a balanced manner. Private schools prefer to use English for teaching, as is also the case with most departments of the ]; this has a limiting effect on the capacity and development of the Maltese language.<ref name=LinguisticView/> Most university courses are in English.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Malta |first=L.-Università ta' |title=Study |url=https://www.um.edu.mt/study |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190801054244/https://www.um.edu.mt/study |archive-date=1 August 2019 |access-date=17 January 2020 |website=L-Università ta' Malta |language=en}}</ref><ref name=MED/> The ] based in Malta teaches exclusively in English.
During 2006, a total of 1,800 illegal immigrants reached Malta making the crossing from the North African coast. Most of them intended to reach mainland Europe and happened to come to Malta due to their sub-standard vessels breaking down or being caught by Maltese and other EU officials.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Frendo holds talks with three European Union Commission Members |publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs |location=Valletta |date=30 January 2006 |url=http://www.foreign.gov.mt/showdoc.aspx?id=210&filesource=4&file=Press%20release%20EU%20Commissioners%20300106.pdf |format=PDF|accessdate=6 July 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4365030.stm|title=Immigrant frustration for Malta|date=21 October 2005|accessdate=12 October 2007|work=BBC News Europe|first=Daniel|last=Sandford}}</ref> In the first half of 2006, 967 irregular immigrants arrived in Malta{{spaced ndash}}almost double the 473 who arrived in the same period in 2005.<ref name="Frendo03072006">{{cite press release |title=Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Michael Frendo to resident EU Ambassadors on irregular immigration in Malta |publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs |location=Valletta |date=3 July 2006 |url=http://www.foreign.gov.mt/showdoc.aspx?id=210&filesource=4&file=Illegal%20Immigration%20-%20Statement%20for%20EU%20Ambassadors%20030706.pdf |format=PDF|accessdate=6 July 2006}}</ref> Many immigrants have perished in the journey across the Mediterranean, with one notable incident being the ].


Of the total number of pupils studying a first foreign language at secondary level, 51 per cent take Italian whilst 38 per cent take French. Other choices include German, Russian, Spanish, Latin, Chinese and Arabic.<ref name=LinguisticView/><ref>{{Cite web |date=1 September 2004 |title=Foreign Language Learning; National Statistics Office |url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=580 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114113545/http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=580 |archive-date=14 January 2009 |website=gov.mt}}</ref>
Around 45% of immigrants landed in Malta have been granted ] (5%) or protected humanitarian status (40%). A ] suggesting the grant of Maltese citizenship to refugees resident in Malta for over ten years was issued in 2005. Historically Malta gave refuge (and assisted in their resettlement) to eight hundred or so East African Asians who had been expelled from ] by ] and to just under a thousand Iraqis fleeing ]'s regime.


Malta is also a popular destination to study the English language, attracting over 83,000 students in 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 April 2013 |title=Malta on the rebound, language student arrivals up 18.2 per cent over last year |url=http://monitor.icef.com/2013/04/malta-on-the-rebound-language-student-arrivals-up-18-2-over-last-year/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925094205/http://monitor.icef.com/2013/04/malta-on-the-rebound-language-student-arrivals-up-18-2-over-last-year/ |archive-date=25 September 2015 |access-date=23 September 2015 |website=ICEF Monitor}}</ref>
Detention costs for the first half of 2006 alone cost €746,385.<ref>{{cite news |work=The Sunday Times |location=UK |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20060716/local/immigrants-refused-entry-into-malta.47557 |title=Immigrants refused entry into Malta |date=16 July 2006 |accessdate=17 July 2006}}</ref>


==Infrastructure==
In 2005, Malta sought EU aid in relation to reception of irregular immigrants, repatriation of those denied refugee status, resettlement of refugees into EU countries, and maritime security.<ref>{{cite conference |first=Michael |last=Frendo |title=Illegal Immigration in Malta |booktitle=EU Foreign Ministers Council |publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs |date=5 July 2005 |url=http://www.foreign.gov.mt/showdoc.aspx?id=96&filesource=4&file=ILLEGal%20Immigrants.pdf |format=PDF|accessdate=6 July 2006}}</ref> In December 2005, the European Council adopted ''The Global Approach to Migration: Priority Actions focusing on Africa and the Mediterranean''; but the deployment of said actions has been limited to the western Mediterranean, thus putting further pressure on the central Mediterranean route for irregular immigration of which Malta forms a part.


===Transport===
In January 2014 Malta started granting citizenship for a €650,000 contribution plus investments, contingent on residence and criminal background requirements.<ref></ref>
{{Main|Transport in Malta|Buses in Malta}}


Owing to the British colonial rule, traffic in Malta ]. Car ownership in Malta is exceedingly high, considering the very small size of the islands; it is the fourth-highest in the European Union. There were 182,254 registered cars in 1990, giving an automobile density of {{Pop density|182254|316|km2|sqmi|prec=0}}.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Sammut, Michael |last2=Savona-Ventura, Charles |year=1996 |title=Petrol Lead in a Small Island Environment |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/33384971 |journal=International Journal of Risk & Safety in Medicine |volume=9 |issue=1 |pages=33–40 |doi=10.3233/JRS-1996-9104 |pmid=23512022}}</ref> Malta has {{convert|2254|km|0|abbr=off}} of road, {{convert|1972|km|0|abbr=on}} (87.5 per cent) of which are paved (as of December 2003).<ref>{{Cite web |title=''NationMaster''&nbsp;– Transportation statistics |url=http://www.nationmaster.com/country/mt-malta/tra-transportation |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926213223/http://www.nationmaster.com/country/mt-malta/tra-transportation |archive-date=26 September 2007 |access-date=19 February 2007}}</ref>
====Outbound migration====
]'' and '']'' buses]]
], commemorating the 310 child migrants who travelled to Australia between 1950 and 1965.]]
] (''xarabank'' or ''karozza tal-linja'') are the primary method of public transport, established in 1905. Malta's vintage buses operated in the Maltese islands up to 2011 and became popular tourist attractions.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Simons |first=Jake Wallis |date=1 July 2011 |title=End of the road: no more fares for Malta's vintage buses |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/malta/8606494/End-of-the-road-no-more-fares-for-Maltas-vintage-buses.html |url-status=live |access-date=23 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180524154249/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/malta/8606494/End-of-the-road-no-more-fares-for-Maltas-vintage-buses.html |archive-date=24 May 2018 |website=Telegraph.co.uk}}</ref> To this day they are depicted on many Maltese advertisements and merchandise for tourists.
In the 19th century, most emigration from Malta was to North Africa and the Middle East, although rates of ] to Malta were high.<ref name=Jones>{{cite journal|title=Modern emigration from Malta|first=Huw R.|last=Jones|year=1973|journal=Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers|volume=60|pages=101–119|jstor=621508}}</ref> Nonetheless, Maltese communities formed in these regions. By 1900, for example, British consular estimates suggest that there were 15,326 Maltese in ], and in 1903 it was claimed that 15,000 people of Maltese origin were living in ].<ref name=Attard>{{cite book|title=The Great Exodus (1918–1939)|first=Lawrence E.|last=Attard|year=1989|location=Malta|publisher=Publishers Enterprises Group|url=http://www.maltamigration.com/history/exodus/}}</ref>


The bus service underwent extensive reform in July 2011. The management structure changed from having self-employed drivers driving their own vehicles to a service being offered by a single company through a public tender.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ministeru għall-Infrastruttura Transport u Komunikazzjoni&nbsp;– Transport Pubbliku |url=https://mitc.gov.mt/page.aspx?pageid=52 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120113172538/https://mitc.gov.mt/page.aspx?pageid=52 |archive-date=13 January 2012 |access-date=15 September 2011 |website=Mitc.gov.mt}}</ref> The public tender was won by ], which introduced a fleet of brand new buses, built by ] especially for service by Arriva Malta and including a smaller fleet of ]es brought in from ]. It also operated two smaller buses for an intra-Valletta route only and 61 nine-metre buses, which were used to ease congestion on high-density routes. Overall Arriva Malta operated 264 buses. On 1 January 2014 Arriva ceased operations in Malta due to financial difficulties, having been nationalised as ''Malta Public Transport''.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 December 2013 |title=Arriva Future Decided |work=di-ve.com news |url=http://www.di-ve.com/news/arriva-future-decided |url-status=live |access-date=25 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160627050948/http://www.di-ve.com/news/arriva-future-decided |archive-date=27 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Sansone |first=Kurt |date=23 December 2013 |title=New Year in, Arriva out |work=] |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131223/local/New-Year-in-Arriva-out.500112 |url-status=live |access-date=25 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160323134727/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20131223/local/New-Year-in-Arriva-out.500112 |archive-date=23 March 2016}}</ref> The government chose Autobuses Urbanos de León (] subsidiary) as its preferred bus operator for the country in October 2014.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dalli |first=Kim |date=1 October 2014 |title=New bus operator to start in January |work=] |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141001/local/New-bus-operator-to-start-in-January.537947 |url-status=live |access-date=4 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006092710/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20141001/local/New-bus-operator-to-start-in-January.537947 |archive-date=6 October 2014}}</ref> From October 2022, the bus system is free of charge for residents of Malta.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/budget-2022-free-bus-service-for-all-by-next-year.907165|title=Budget 2022: Free bus service for all by October 1 next year|newspaper=]|access-date=25 June 2022|archive-date=16 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616142249/https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/budget-2022-free-bus-service-for-all-by-next-year.907165|url-status=live}}</ref>
Malta experienced significant emigration as a result of the collapse of a construction boom in 1907 and after World War II, when the ] increased significantly, but in the 20th century most emigrants went to destinations in the ], particularly to Australia, Canada, and the United States. After World War II, Malta's Emigration Department would assist emigrants with the cost of their travel. Between 1948 and 1967, 30 per cent of the population emigrated.<ref name=Jones/> Between 1946 and the late 1970s, over 140,000 people left Malta on the assisted passage scheme, with 57.6% migrating to Australia, 22% to the UK, 13% to Canada and 7% to the United States.<ref name=King>{{cite journal|title=The Maltese migration cycle: An archival survey|first=Russell|last=King|year=1979|journal=Area|volume=11|issue=3|pages=245–249|jstor=20001477}}</ref>


As of 2021, an underground ] is being planned, with a projected total cost of €6.2 billion.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/watch-live-government-announces-metro-study-results.905092|title=Government unveils 25-station, €6.2 billion underground Metro proposal|website=Times of Malta|date=October 2021|access-date=2 October 2022|archive-date=1 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221001234913/https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/watch-live-government-announces-metro-study-results.905092|url-status=live}}</ref>
{{Col-start}}{{Col-break}}


], one of the largest European ports]]
{|class="wikitable"
|+Maltese migration patterns (1946–1996)<ref></ref>
|-
! Country
! To
! From
! Net migration
! Return %
|-
|'''Australia'''
|86,787
|17,847
|68,940
|21.56
|-
|'''Canada'''
|19,792
|4,798
|14,997
|24.24
|-
|'''UK'''
|31,489
|12,659
|18,830
|40.20
|-
|'''USA'''
|11,601
|2,580
|9,021
|22.24
|-
|'''Other'''
|1,647
|907
|740
|55.07
|-
|'''Total'''
|155,060
|39,087
|115,973
|25.21
|}


Malta has three large natural harbours on its main island:
{{Col-end}}
* The ] (or Port il-Kbir), located at the eastern side of the capital city of Valletta, has been a harbour since ] times. It has several extensive ] and ], as well as a cruise liner terminal. A terminal at the Grand Harbour serves ferries that connect Malta to ] & ] in Sicily.
* ], located on the western side of Valletta, accommodates a number of yacht marinas.
* ] (Malta Freeport), at ] on the south-eastern side of Malta, is the islands' main cargo terminal. Malta Freeport is the ] with a trade volume of 2.3&nbsp;million ] in 2008.<ref>{{Cite web |title=AAPA World Port Rankings 2008 |url=http://aapa.files.cms-plus.com/Statistics/WORLD%20PORT%20RANKINGS%2020081.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140323125150/http://aapa.files.cms-plus.com/Statistics/WORLD%20PORT%20RANKINGS%2020081.pdf |archive-date=23 March 2014 |access-date=14 November 2010}}</ref>


There are also two human-made harbours that serve a passenger and car ferry service that connects ] Harbour on Malta and ] on ].
Emigration dropped dramatically after the mid-1970s and has since ceased to be a social phenomenon of significance. However, since Malta joined the EU in 2004 ] communities emerged in a number of European countries particularly in ] and ].


] (Ajruport Internazzjonali ta' Malta) is the only airport serving the Maltese islands. It is built on the land formerly occupied by the ] air base. A heliport is also located there. The heliport in Gozo is at ]. A former airfield at ] houses a national park, ], the Crafts Village visitor attraction and the ].
===Education===
]]]
{{Main|Education in Malta}}
{{See also|List of schools in Malta}}
]]]


From 1 April 1974 to 30 March 2024, the national airline was ], which was based at Malta International Airport and operated services to 22 destinations in Europe and North Africa. The owners of Air Malta were the ] (98 percent) and private investors (2 percent).
Primary schooling has been compulsory since 1946; secondary education up to the age of sixteen was made compulsory in 1971. The state and the ] provide education free of charge, both running a number of schools in Malta and ], including ] in ], ] in ], ] in ], St. Joseph's School in ] and ] in ]. As of 2006, state schools are organised into networks known as Colleges and incorporate kindergarten schools, primary and secondary schools. A number of private schools are run in Malta, including ] and ] in the valley of L-Imselliet (l/o ]), ] in Swatar and St. Michael's School in ]. {{As of|2008}}, there are two international schools, Verdala International School and QSI Malta. The state pays a portion of the teachers' salary in Church schools.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aboutmalta.com/grazio/education.html|title=Education in Malta|accessdate=12 October 2007}}</ref>


On 31 March 2024, ] took over as the national airline of Malta. All former ] Airplanes and other assets were transferred to the new airline, together with the staff. KM Malta Airlines is based at Malta International Airport and operates services to 18 destinations in Europe.
Education in Malta is based on the ]. Primary school lasts six years. At the age of 11 pupils sit for an examination to enter a secondary school, either a ] (the Common Entrance Examination) or a ]. Pupils sit for SEC ] examinations at the age of 16, with passes obligatory in certain subjects such as mathematics, English and ]. Pupils may opt to continue studying at a ] such as ], ], Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary, ], St Edward's College, or else at another post-secondary institution such as ]. The sixth form course lasts for two years, at the end of which students sit for the Matriculation examination. Subject to their performance, students may then apply for an undergraduate ] or diploma.


In June 2019, ] has invested into a fully-fledged airline subsidiary, called ], operating a low-cost model. The Government of Malta holds one share in the airline.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Updated {{!}} Ryanair setting up fully-fledged Malta subsidiary|url=http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/95535/ryanair_setting_up_fullyfledged_malta_subsidiary|access-date=3 August 2021|website=MaltaToday.com.mt|language=en|archive-date=10 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190610144159/http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/95535/ryanair_setting_up_fullyfledged_malta_subsidiary|url-status=live}}</ref>
The ] (U.o.M.) provides Tertiary education at diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate level. The adult ] is 99.5%.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indexmundi.com/facts/malta/literacy-rate |title=Malta – Literacy rate |publisher=Indexmundi.com |accessdate=20 October 2013}}</ref><!-- This section is linked to from the "Languages" section above. If changing the section title, update the link as well. -->


===Communications===
Maltese and English are both used to teach students at primary and secondary school level, and both languages are also compulsory subjects. ] tend to use both Maltese and English in a balanced manner. Private schools prefer to use English for teaching, as is also the case with most departments of the ]; this has a limiting effect on the capacity and development of the Maltese language.<ref name=LinguisticView/> Most university courses are in English.<ref name=MED/>
The mobile penetration rate in Malta exceeded 100% by the end of 2009.<ref>, nso.gov.mt {{dead link|date=May 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> Malta uses the ]900, UMTS(3G) and LTE(4G) mobile phone systems, which are compatible with the rest of the European countries, Australia and New Zealand.{{citation needed|date=December 2019}}


In early 2012, the government called for a national Fibre to the Home (FttH) network to be built, with a minimum broadband service being upgraded from 4&nbsp;Mbit/s to 100&nbsp;Mbit/s.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 November 2012 |title=Investment in fibre networks stimulates national FttH ambitions in Malta – BuddeBlog |url=http://www.buddeblog.com.au/frompaulsdesk/investment-in-fibre-networks-stimulates-national-ftth-ambitions-in-malta/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201213926/http://www.buddeblog.com.au/frompaulsdesk/investment-in-fibre-networks-stimulates-national-ftth-ambitions-in-malta/ |archive-date=1 February 2014 |access-date=26 March 2013 |website=Buddeblog.com.au}}</ref>
Of the total number of students studying a first foreign language at secondary level, 51% take Italian whilst 38% take French. Other choices include German, Russian, Spanish, Latin, Chinese and Arabic.<ref name=LinguisticView/><ref></ref>


===Healthcare=== === Power Generation ===
{{See also|List of hospitals in Malta}} {{Main articles|Energy in Malta}}
Malta relied on ] till 1996 for electricity generation. In 1992, a new power station was built on the Delimara peninsula in ]. Originally the ] in 2015 used ] for electricity generation, before being converted to ] in 2017. The power station also includes two ]-fired plants, which are used as standby power generation capacity during emergencies or lack of other power sources. Since 2015, the ] allows Malta to be connected to the ] and import a significant share of its electricity.
].]]
]]]


=== Healthcare ===
Malta has a long history of providing ]. The first hospital recorded in the country was already functioning by 1372.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.com/hotsprings/2615/medhist/hospital2.htm |title=Civil Hospitals in Malta in the Last Two Hundred Years |publisher=Geocities.com |accessdate=31 March 2009|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/query?url=http://www.geocities.com/hotsprings/2615/medhist/hospital2.htm&date=2009-10-26+00:12:01|archivedate=26 October 2009}}</ref>
Today, Malta has both a public healthcare system, known as the government healthcare service, where healthcare is free at the point of delivery, and a ] system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sahha.gov.mt/pages.aspx?page=156 |title=The Health Care System in Malta_1 |publisher=Sahha.gov.mt |accessdate=31 March 2009}}{{dead link|date=October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gov.mt/servicecluster.asp?s=4&l=2 |title=Government of Malta&nbsp;– Health Services |publisher=Gov.mt |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref> Malta has a strong general practitioner-delivered primary care base and the public hospitals provide secondary and tertiary care. The Maltese Ministry of Health advises foreign residents to take out private medical insurance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alloexpat.com/moving_to_malta_forum/healthcare-in-malta-t162.html |title=Healthcare in Malta&nbsp;– Allo' Expat Malta |publisher=Alloexpat.com |date=17 October 2006 |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref>


{{Main|Healthcare in Malta}}
Malta was ranked number five in the ]'s ranking of the world's health systems,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.photius.com/rankings/healthranks.html |title=The World Health Organization's ranking of the world's health systems |publisher=Photius.com |accessdate=8 July 2009}}</ref> compared to the ] (at 37), ] (at 32), ] (at 18) and ] (at 30). The healthcare system in Malta closely resembles the British system,<ref name="ph">{{cite web |author=info@icon.com.mt |url=http://www.stphilips.com.mt/StPhilips/hospital.asp |archiveurl=//web.archive.org/web/20071020034212/http://www.stphilips.com.mt/StPhilips/hospital.asp |archivedate=20 October 2007 |title=St. Philip's Hospital&nbsp;– A modern 75-bed hospital equipped with the latest medical technology&nbsp;– Malta |publisher=Stphilips.com.mt |date=2 July 2004 |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref> as healthcare is free at the point of delivery.
Malta has a long history of providing ]. The first hospital recorded in the country was already functioning by 1372.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Civil Hospitals in Malta in the Last Two Hundred Years |url=http://www.geocities.com/hotsprings/2615/medhist/hospital2.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091020134711/http://geocities.com/HotSprings/2615/medhist/hospital2.htm |archive-date=20 October 2009 |access-date=31 March 2009 |website=Geocities.com}}</ref>
Today, Malta has both a public healthcare system, where healthcare is free at the point of delivery, and a private healthcare system.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Health Care System in Malta_1 |url=http://www.sahha.gov.mt/pages.aspx?page=156 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070711220500/http://www.sahha.gov.mt/pages.aspx?page=156 |archive-date=11 July 2007 |access-date=31 March 2009 |website=Sahha.gov.mt}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Government of Malta&nbsp;– Health Services |url=http://www.gov.mt/servicecluster.asp?s=4&l=2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050305122930/http://www.gov.mt/servicecluster.asp?s=4&l=2 |archive-date=5 March 2005 |access-date=31 March 2009 |website=Gov.mt}}</ref> Malta has a strong general practitioner-delivered primary care base and the public hospitals provide secondary and tertiary care. The Maltese Ministry of Health advises foreign residents to take out private medical insurance.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 October 2006 |title=Healthcare in Malta&nbsp;– Allo' Expat Malta |url=http://www.alloexpat.com/moving_to_malta_forum/healthcare-in-malta-t162.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101065622/http://www.alloexpat.com/moving_to_malta_forum/healthcare-in-malta-t162.html |archive-date=1 January 2016 |access-date=31 March 2009 |url-status=usurped |website=Alloexpat.com}}</ref>
]|left]]
Malta also boasts voluntary organisations such as Alpha Medical (Advanced Care), the Emergency Fire & Rescue Unit (E.F.R.U.), St John Ambulance and Red Cross Malta who provide first aid/nursing services during events involving crowds, Malta's primary hospital, opened in 2007. It has one of the largest medical buildings in Europe.


The ] has a medical school and a Faculty of ]. The ] represents practitioners of the medical profession. The ] followed in the UK has been introduced in Malta to stem the 'brain drain' of newly graduated physicians to the British Isles.
Malta also boasts voluntary organisations such as Alpha Medical (Advanced Care), the Emergency Fire & Rescue Unit (E.F.R.U.), St John Ambulance and Red Cross Malta who provide first aid/nursing services during events involving crowds.

The ], Malta's primary hospital, opened in 2007. It has one of the largest medical buildings in Europe.

The ] has a ] and a Faculty of ], the latter offering diploma, degree (BSc) and postgraduate degree courses in a number of health care disciplines.

The ] represents practitioners of the medical profession. ] is a separate body representing Maltese medical students, and is a member of ] and ]. ], the Maltese Institute for Medical Education, is an institute set up recently to provide CME to physicians in Malta as well as medical students. The ] followed in the UK has been introduced in Malta to stem the 'brain drain' of newly graduated physicians to the British Isles. ], the Malta Association of Dental Students, is a student association set up to promote the rights of Dental Surgery Students studying within the faculty of Dental Surgery of the University of Malta. It is affiliated with ], the International Association of Dental Students.


==Culture== ==Culture==
{{Main|Culture of Malta}} {{Main|Culture of Malta}}
The culture of Malta reflects the various cultures 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 prior to its ] in 1964. The culture of Malta reflects the various cultures, that have come into contact with the Maltese Islands throughout the centuries.<ref>{{Cite news |title=The struggle for independence |newspaper=] |url=https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20180926/community/the-struggle-for-independence.690050 |url-status=live |access-date=26 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180926201610/https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20180926/community/the-struggle-for-independence.690050 |archive-date=26 September 2018}}</ref>


===Music=== ===Music===
{{Main|Music of Malta}} {{Main|Music of Malta}}
], Europe's third-oldest working theatre. Now Malta's National Theatre and home to the ].]] ], Europe's third-oldest working theatre. Now Malta's National Theatre and home to the ].]]
While Maltese music today is largely Western, traditional Maltese music includes what is known as ]. This consists of background ] music, while a few people, generally men, take it in turns to argue a point in a sing-song voice. The aim of the lyrics, which are improvised, is to create a friendly yet challenging atmosphere, and it takes a number of years of practice to be able to combine the required artistic qualities with the ability to ] effectively. While Maltese music today is largely Western, traditional Maltese music includes what is known as '']''. This consists of background ] music, while a few people, generally men, take it in turns to argue a point in a sing-song voice. Music plays an important part in Maltese culture as each locality parades its own band club, on various occasions these being multiple per locality, and function to establish the thematic musical background to the various ]. The ] is recognised as Malta's foremost musical institution and is notable for being called to participate in important state events.

Contemporary music in Malta spans a variety of styles and sports international classical talents such as ] and ], as well as non-classical music bands such as ], and ], and singers like ], ], ], ], ], ], and ].


===Literature=== ===Literature===
{{Main|Maltese literature}} {{Main|Maltese literature}}
Documented Maltese literature is over 200 years old. However, a recently unearthed love ballad testifies to literary activity in the local tongue from the Medieval period. Malta followed a Romantic literary tradition, culminating in the works of ], Malta's National Poet. Subsequent writers like ] and ] tried to estrange themselves from the rigidity of formal themes and versification. Documented Maltese literature is over 200 years old. However, a recently unearthed love ballad testifies to literary activity in the local tongue from the Medieval period. Malta followed a Romantic literary tradition, culminating in the works of ], Malta's national poet. Subsequent writers like ] and Karmenu Vassallo tried to estrange themselves from the rigidity of formal themes and versification.<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IgvtxYGrxq0C&q=Ruzar+Briffa+and+Karmenu+Vassallo+tried+to+estrange+themselves+from+the+rigidity+of+formal+themes+and+versification&pg=PA35 |title=Malta Country: Strategic Information and Developments |date=3 March 2012 |publisher=Int'l Business Publications |isbn=978-1-4387-7497-8 |language=en }}{{Dead link|date=February 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>


The next generation of writers, including ] and ], widened the tracks further, especially in prose and poetry.<ref>{{Cite book |title=Malta Recent Economic and Political Developments Yearbook Volume 1 Strategic Information and Developments |publisher=Int'l Business Publications, Inc. |year=2013 |isbn=978-1-4330-6350-3 |page=38}}</ref>
It was late in the 1960s that Maltese literature experienced its most radical transformation among poets, prose writers and dramatists. Names of significant poets that stand out from the last quarter of the 20th century include ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. In prose, ] (The National Modern Author of Malta), ] and ] led the ] meanwhile among the prominent names in theatre are ], ], ], ], Joe Friggieri and ].


===Architecture===
The next generation of writers widened the tracks further, especially in prose. ], ] and ] are young writers fast establishing themselves while in poetry, significant names include ], ], ] and ].
{{main|Architecture of Malta}}
]
]]]


Maltese architecture has been influenced by many different Mediterranean cultures and British architecture over its history.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Diab |first=Khaled |date=26 July 2010 |title=Malta's mash of civilisations {{!}} Khaled Diab |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2010/jul/26/malta-mash-civilisations-eu-membership |url-status=live |access-date=17 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180810094352/https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2010/jul/26/malta-mash-civilisations-eu-membership |archive-date=10 August 2018 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> The first settlers on the island constructed ], one of the oldest manmade freestanding structures in the world. The Neolithic temple builders (3800–2500 BC) endowed the numerous temples of Malta and Gozo with intricate bas-relief designs.
In literary criticism, ], Oliver Friggieri and ] introduced perceptive historical, philosophical and psycho-social themes into Maltese theory. ], current Head of the English Department at the ], is also an internationally known literary critic in academic circles for the English language.


The Roman period introduced highly decorative mosaic floors, marble colonnades, and classical statuary, remnants of which are beautifully preserved and presented in the Roman Domus, a country villa just outside the walls of ]. The early Christian frescoes that decorate the ] beneath Malta reveal a propensity for eastern, ] tastes. These tastes continued to inform the endeavours of ] Maltese artists, but they were increasingly influenced by the ] and ] movements.
Other writers, born in Malta or of Maltese descent, have established careers abroad. These included the novelist ], best-selling children's author ] and comic-book artist/journalist ].
Malta is currently undergoing several large-scale building projects, while areas such as the ] and ] have been or are being renovated.<ref name="MaltaRecentEconomic">{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VAm3CwAAQBAJ&q=Valletta+Waterfront+and+Tign%C3%A9+Point+have+been+or+are+being+renovated&pg=PA38 |title=Malta Recent Economic and Political Developments Yearbook Volume 1 Strategic Information and Developments |date=May 2007 |publisher=Lulu.com |isbn=978-1-4330-6350-3 |language=en}}</ref>


===Art and architecture=== ===Art===
<!-- This section is linked from the redirect "Architecture of Malta"; if the section heading changes, please update the redirect accordingly. -->
]


Towards the end of the 15th century, Maltese artists, like their counterparts in Sicily, came under the influence of the School of ], which introduced ] ideals and concepts to the decorative arts in Malta.<ref name="hopeandoptimism1">{{Cite web |last=Cutajar, D. |title=An Overview of the Art of Malta |url=http://www.hopeandoptimism.com/essay.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206001808/http://www.hopeandoptimism.com/essay.htm |archive-date=6 December 2008 |access-date=31 March 2009 |website=The Hope and Optimism Portfolio}}</ref>
Maltese architecture has been influenced by many different Mediterranean cultures and British architecture over its history. The first settlers on the island constructed ], one of the oldest manmade freestanding structures in the world. The Neolithic temple builders 3800–2500 BC endowed the numerous temples of Malta and Gozo with intricate bas relief designs, including spirals evocative of the tree of life and animal portraits, designs painted in red ochre, ceramics, and a vast collection of human form sculptures, particularly the Venus of Malta. These can be viewed at the temples themselves (most notably, the ] and Tarxien Temples), and at the National Museum of Archaeology in ]. Malta is currently undergoing several large-scale building projects, including the construction of ], the ] and ], while areas such as the ] and ] are receiving renovation.


]]]
The Roman period introduced highly decorative mosaic floors, marble colonnades and classical statuary, remnants of which are beautifully preserved and presented in the Roman Domus, a country villa just outside the walls of ]. The early Christian frescoes that decorate the ] beneath Malta reveal a propensity for eastern, ] tastes. These tastes continued to inform the endeavours of ] Maltese artists, but they were increasingly influenced by the ] and ] movements. Towards the end of the 15th century, Maltese artists, like their counterparts in neighbouring Sicily, came under the influence of the School of ], which introduced ] ideals and concepts to the decorative arts in Malta.<ref name="hopeandoptimism1">{{cite web|url=http://www.hopeandoptimism.com/essay.htm |title=D. Cutajar, "An Overview of the Art of Malta" |publisher=Hopeandoptimism.com |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref> Malta's temples such as Imnajdra are full of history and have a story behind them.


The artistic heritage of Malta blossomed under the ], who brought Italian and Flemish ] painters to decorate their palaces and the churches of these islands, most notably, ], whose works appear in the ] and in the ] in Valletta, and Filippo Paladini, who was active in Malta from 1590 to 1595. For many years, Mannerism continued to inform the tastes and ideals of local Maltese artists.<ref name="hopeandoptimism1" />
]


The arrival in Malta of ], who painted at least seven works during his 15-month stay on these islands, further revolutionised local art. Two of Caravaggio's most notable works, '']'' and '']'', are on display in the Conventual Church of St. John. His legacy is evident in the works of local artists Giulio Cassarino and ]. However, the ] movement that followed was destined to have the most enduring impact on Maltese art and architecture. The vault paintings of the Calabrese artist ] transformed the Conventual Church St. John into a Baroque masterpiece. ] emerged as one of the top Baroque sculptors of the Roman School.<ref>{{Cite thesis |last=Medina |first=Ashley Marie |title=Melchiorre Cafà and Camillo Pamphilj: The Art of Patronage in Seventeenth-Century Rome |date=June 2015 |access-date=2024-08-02 |degree=Master of Arts |publisher=] |url=https://www.proquest.com/openview/ef0ceaa780966f1127433fffb784dec7/}}</ref>
The artistic heritage of Malta blossomed under the ], who brought Italian and Flemish ] painters to decorate their palaces and the churches of these islands, most notably, ], whose works appear in the ] and in the ] in Valletta, and Filippo Paladini, who was active in Malta from 1590 to 1595. For many years, Mannerism continued to inform the tastes and ideals of local Maltese artists.<ref name="hopeandoptimism1"/>


]'s ''Still Life of Pomegranates, Peaches and other Fruits'']]
The arrival in Malta of ], who painted at least seven works during his 15-month stay on these islands, further revolutionised local art. Two of Caravaggio's most notable works, '']'' and '']'', are on display in the ] of the Conventual Church of St. John. His legacy is evident in the works of local artists Giulio Cassarino (1582–1637) and Stefano Erardi (1630–1716). However, the ] movement that followed was destined to have the most enduring impact on Maltese art and architecture. The glorious vault paintings of the celebrated Calabrese artist, ] transformed the severe, Mannerist interior of the Conventual Church St. John into a Baroque masterpiece. Preti spent the last 40 years of his life in Malta, where he created many of his finest works, now on display in the Museum of Fine Arts in ]. During this period, local sculptor ] (1639–1667) emerged as one of the top Baroque sculptors of the Roman School.


During the 17th and 18th century, ] and ] influences emerged in the works of the Italian painters ] and ], and these developments can be seen in the work of their Maltese contemporaries such as ] and ]. The Rococo movement was greatly enhanced by the relocation to Malta of ], who assumed the position of court painter to Grand Master Pinto in 1744.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Antoine Favray And his works |url=https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2008-03-26/news/antoine-favray-and-his-works-205443/ |date=26 March 2008 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190619120019/http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2008-03-26/news/antoine-favray-and-his-works-205443 |archive-date=19 June 2019 |access-date=17 January 2020 |website=The Malta Independent}}</ref>
]


] made some inroads among local Maltese artists in the late-18th century, but this trend was reversed in the early 19th century, as the local Church authorities&nbsp;– perhaps in an effort to strengthen Catholic resolve against the perceived threat of Protestantism during the early days of British rule in Malta&nbsp;– favoured and avidly promoted the religious themes embraced by the ]. ], tempered by the naturalism introduced to Malta by ], informed the "salon" artists of the early 20th century, including Edward and Robert Caruana Dingli.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Petroni |first=Nikki |date=12 February 2017 |title=Intimacy and Introspection |url=https://www.pressreader.com/malta/the-malta-independent-on-sunday/20170212/282544428053095 |access-date=17 January 2020 |website=The Malta Independent |archive-date=3 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203120207/https://www.pressreader.com/malta/the-malta-independent-on-sunday/20170212/282544428053095 |url-status=live }}</ref>
During the 17th and 18th century, ] and ] influences emerged in the works of the Italian painters ] (1632–1705) and ] (1657–1747), and these developments can be seen in the work of their Maltese contemporaries such as Giovanni Nicola Buhagiar (1698–1752) and Francesco Zahra (1710–1773). The Rococo movement was greatly enhanced by the relocation to Malta of Antoine de Favray (1706–1798), who assumed the position of court painter to Grand Master Pinto in 1744.


Parliament established the National School of Art in the 1920s. During the reconstruction period that followed the Second World War, the emergence of the "Modern Art Group", whose members included Josef Kalleya, George Preca, Anton Inglott, ], ], ], ] and ] greatly enhanced the local art scene. This group came together forming an influential pressure group known as the Modern Art Group, which played a leading role in the renewal of Maltese art. Most of Malta's modern artists have in fact studied in Art institutions in England, or on the continent, leading to a diversity of artistic expression that has remained characteristic of contemporary Maltese art. In Valletta, the ] featured work from artists such as ].<ref name="MaltaInd"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416182555/http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2006-04-23/news/right-outside-my-window-90329/ |date=16 April 2014 }}, ''The Malta Independent'', 23 April 2006. Retrieved 11 June 2014</ref> In 2018 the national collection of fine arts was put on display in the new National Museum of Art, ], at ] in Valletta.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Updated: New museum for contemporary artists opened in Valletta |first1= Giulia |last1=Magri |date=10 November 2018 |url=http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2018-11-10/local-news/New-museum-for-contemporary-artists-opened-in-Valletta-6736199157 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212070513/http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2018-11-10/local-news/New-museum-for-contemporary-artists-opened-in-Valletta-6736199157 |archive-date=12 February 2019 |access-date=11 February 2019 |website=The Malta Independent}}</ref>
] made some inroads among local Maltese artists in the late 18th century, but this trend was reversed in the early 19th century, as the local Church authorities&nbsp;– perhaps in an effort to strengthen Catholic resolve against the perceived threat of Protestantism during the early days of British rule in Malta&nbsp;– favoured and avidly promoted the religious themes embraced by the ] of artists. ], tempered by the naturalism introduced to Malta by ], informed the "salon" artists of the early 20th century, including Edward and Robert Caruana Dingli.

Parliament established the National School of Art in the 1920s. During the reconstruction period that followed the Second World War, the emergence of the "Modern Art Group", whose members included Josef Kalleya (1898–1998), George Preca (1909–1984), Anton Inglott (1915–1945), Emvin Cremona (1919–1986), Frank Portelli (b. 1922), Antoine Camilleri (b. 1922) and Esprit Barthet (b. 1919) greatly enhanced the local art scene. In Valletta, the ] features work from artists such as ].<ref name=MaltaInd>, ''The Malta Independent'', 23 April 2006. Retrieved 11 June 2014</ref>


===Cuisine=== ===Cuisine===
{{Main|Maltese cuisine|List of Maltese dishes}} {{Main|Maltese cuisine|List of Maltese dishes}}
]'', a typical Maltese snack]] ]'', a typical Maltese snack]]
Maltese cuisine shows strong ] and ] influences as well as influences of ], ], ] and ] cuisines. A number of regional variations can be noted as well as seasonal variations associated with the seasonal availability of produce and Christian feasts (such as ], Easter and Christmas). Food has been important historically in the development of a national identity in particular the traditional ''fenkata'' (i.e., the eating of stewed or fried rabbit). Potatoes are a staple of the Maltese diet as well.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Cassar |first=Carmel |url=https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/bitstream/handle/123456789/23890/FENKATA.PDF?sequence=1&isAllowed=y |title=Fenkata: an emblem of Maltese peasant resistance? |publisher=Ministry for Youth and the Arts |year=1994 |page=19 |access-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180113003419/https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/bitstream/handle/123456789/23890/FENKATA.PDF?sequence=1 |archive-date=13 January 2018 }}</ref>
]'', a type of Maltese bread]]

Maltese cuisine shows strong Sicilian and English influences as well as influences of ], ] and ] cuisines. A number of regional variations, particularly with regards to Gozo, can be noted as well as seasonal variations associated with the seasonal availability of produce and Christian feasts (such as ], Easter and Christmas). Food has been important historically in the development of a national identity in particular the traditional ''fenkata'' (i.e. the eating of stewed or fried rabbit).
A number of grapes are endemic to Malta, including ] and ]. There is a strong ], with significant production of wines using these native grapes, as well as locally grown grapes of other more common varietals. A number of wines have achieved ], with wines produced from grapes cultivated in Malta and Gozo designated as "DOK" wines, that is ''Denominazzjoni ta' l-Oriġini Kontrollata''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Quality Wines |url=https://agriculture.gov.mt/en/agricultural_directorate/Pages/qualityWines.aspx |website=agriculture.gov.mt |language=en }}{{Dead link|date=June 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>


===Customs=== ===Customs===
{{Main|Maltese folklore}} {{Main|Maltese folklore}}
A 2010 ] study found that the Maltese were the most generous people in the world, with 83% contributing to charity.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Crary |first=David |date=9 September 2010 |title=Study finds Americans in generous mood |work=The Huffington Post via Burlington Free Press |url=http://silentrebellion.newsvine.com/_news/2010/09/09/5079433-11-most-generous-countries-of-2010 |access-date=11 September 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110406130057/http://silentrebellion.newsvine.com/_news/2010/09/09/5079433-11-most-generous-countries-of-2010 |archive-date=6 April 2011}}</ref><!---note that location of soft copy and hard copy differ. They are the same article, however--->


Maltese folktales include various stories about mysterious creatures and supernatural events. These were most comprehensively compiled by the scholar (and pioneer in Maltese ]) ]<ref>"Patri Manwel Magri u l-Ipoġew", Lil Ħbiebna, November 2003, pp. 195–197.</ref> in his core criticism "''Ħrejjef Missirijietna''" ("Fables from our Forefathers"). This collection of material inspired subsequent researchers and academics to gather traditional ], ]s and ]s from all over the Archipelago.<ref name="MaltaRecentEconomic" /> While giants, witches, and dragons feature in many of the stories, some contain entirely Maltese creatures like the ], ] and ] among others.
A 2010 ] study found that Maltese were the most generous peoples in the world, with 83% contributing to charity.<ref>{{Cite news|first=David|last=Crary|title=Study finds Americans in generous mood|url=http://silentrebellion.newsvine.com/_news/2010/09/09/5079433-11-most-generous-countries-of-2010|work=The Huffington Post via Burlington Free Press|date=9 September 2010}}</ref><!---note that location of soft copy and hard copy differ. They are the same article, however--->

Maltese folktales include various stories about mysterious creatures and supernatural events. These were most comprehensively compiled by the scholar (and pioneer in Maltese ]) ]<ref>"Patri Manwel Magri u l-Ipoġew", Lil Ħbiebna, November 2003, pp. 195–197.</ref> in his core criticism "''Ħrejjef Missirijietna''" ("Fables from our Forefathers"). This collection of material inspired subsequent researchers and academics to gather traditional ], ]s and ]s from all over the Archipelago.

Magri's work also inspired a series of comic books (released by Klabb Kotba Maltin in 1984): the titles included ''Bin is-Sultan Jiźźewweġ x-Xebba tat-Tronġiet Mewwija'' and ''Ir-Rjieħ''. Many of these stories have been popularly re-written as Children's literature by authors writing in ], such as ]. While giants, witches and dragons feature in many of the stories, some contain entirely Maltese creatures like the ], ] and ] among others. The traditional Maltese obsession with maintaining spiritual (or ritual) purity<ref>Zarb, T. Folklore of An Island, PEG Ltd, 1998 ISBN 9990900973</ref> means that many of these creatures have the role of guarding forbidden or restricted areas and attacking individuals who broke the strict codes of conduct that characterised the island's pre-industrial society.


===Traditions=== ===Traditions===
Traditional Maltese proverbs reveal a cultural importance of childbearing and fertility: "''iż-żwieġ mingħajr tarbija ma fihx tgawdija''" (a childless marriage cannot be a happy one). This is a belief that Malta shares with many other Mediterranean cultures. In Maltese folktales the local variant of the classic closing formula, "and they all lived happily ever after" is "''u għammru u tgħammru, u spiċċat''" (and they lived together, and they had children together, and the tale is finished).<ref>J. Cassar Pullicino, "A New Look at Old Customs", in , Malta University Press (1992).</ref> Traditional Maltese proverbs reveal cultural importance of childbearing and fertility: "''iż-żwieġ mingħajr tarbija ma fihx tgawdija''" (a childless marriage cannot be a happy one). This is a belief that Malta shares with many other Mediterranean cultures. In Maltese folktales the local variant of the classic closing formula, "and they all lived happily ever after" is "''u għammru u tgħammru, u spiċċat''" (and they lived together, and they had children together, and the tale is finished).<ref>Cassar Pullicino, J. (1992) "A New Look at Old Customs", in {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907184538/https://books.google.com/books?id=2TbaAAAAMAAJ |date=7 September 2015 }}, Malta University Press (1992).</ref>
] has been celebrated since the 1400s.]]
Rural Malta shares in common with the Mediterranean society a number of superstitions regarding fertility, menstruation, and pregnancy, including the avoidance of cemeteries leading up to childbirth, and avoiding the preparation of certain foods during menses. Pregnant women are encouraged to satisfy their ], out of fear that their unborn child will bear a representational birth mark (Maltese: ''xewqa'', literally "desire" or "craving"). Maltese and Sicilian women also share certain traditions that are believed to predict the sex of an unborn child.{{citation needed|date=August 2015}}


Traditionally, Maltese newborns were baptised as promptly as possible. Traditional Maltese delicacies served at a baptismal feast include ''biskuttini tal-magħmudija'' (almond macaroons), ''it-torta tal-marmorata'' (a spicy, heart-shaped tart of chocolate-flavoured ]), and a liqueur known as ''rożolin'', made with rose petals, violets, and almonds.{{citation needed|date=August 2015}}
Rural Malta shares in common with Mediterranean society a number of superstitions regarding fertility, menstruation, and pregnancy, including the avoidance of cemeteries during the months leading up to childbirth, and avoiding the preparation of certain foods during menses. Pregnant women are encouraged to satisfy their ] for specific foods, out of fear that their unborn child will bear a representational birth mark (Maltese: ''xewqa'', literally "desire" or "craving"). Maltese and Sicilian women also share certain traditions that are believed to predict the sex of an unborn child, such as the cycle of the moon on the anticipated date of birth, whether the baby is carried "high" or "low" during pregnancy, and the movement of a wedding ring, dangled on a string above the abdomen (sideways denoting a girl, back and forth denoting a boy).


On a child's first birthday, in a tradition that still survives today, Maltese parents would organise a game known as ''il-quċċija'', where a variety of symbolic objects would be randomly placed around the seated child. These may include a hard-boiled egg, a Bible, ] or ], a book, and so on. Whichever object the child shows the most interest in is said to reveal the child's path and fortunes in adulthood.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Maltese Traditions: Il-Quċċija |url=https://www.airmalta.com/destinations/malta/blog/detail/maltese-traditions-il-quccija |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190709143201/https://www.airmalta.com/destinations/malta/blog/detail/maltese-traditions-il-quccija |archive-date=9 July 2019 |access-date=9 July 2019 |website=Airmalta.com|date=2 March 2015}}</ref>
Traditionally, Maltese newborns were baptised as promptly as possible, should the child die in infancy without receiving this vital Sacrament; and partly because according to Maltese (and Sicilian) folklore an unbaptised child is not yet a Christian, but "still a Turk". Traditional Maltese delicacies served at a baptismal feast include ''biskuttini tal-magħmudija'' (almond macaroons covered in white or pink icing), ''it-torta tal-marmorata'' (a spicy, heart-shaped tart of chocolate-flavoured almond paste), and a liqueur known as ''rożolin'', made with rose petals, violets and almonds.


Traditional Maltese weddings featured the bridal party walking in procession beneath an ornate canopy, from the home of the bride's family to the parish church, with singers trailing behind (''il-ġilwa''). New wives would wear the ], a traditional item of Maltese clothing. Today's couples are married in churches or chapels in the village or town of their choice, usually followed by a lavish wedding reception. Occasionally, couples will try to incorporate elements of the traditional Maltese wedding in their celebration. A resurgent interest in the traditional wedding was evident in May 2007, when thousands of Maltese and tourists attended a traditional Maltese wedding in the style of the 16th century, in ].{{citation needed|date=August 2015}}
On a child's first birthday, in a tradition that still survives today, Maltese parents would organise a game known as ''il-quċċija'', where a variety of symbolic objects would be randomly placed around the seated child. These may include a hard-boiled egg, a Bible, ] or ], a book, and so on. Whichever object the child shows most interest in is said to reveal the child's path and fortunes in adulthood.


===Festivals and events===
Money refers to a rich future while a book expresses intelligence and a possible career as a teacher. Infants who select a pencil or pen will be writers. Choosing Bibles or rosary beads refers to a clerical or monastic life. If the child chooses a hard-boiled egg, it will have a long life and many children. More recent additions include calculators (refers to accounting), thread (fashion) and wooden spoons (cooking and a great appetite).
]|219x219px]]
Local festivals, similar to those in Southern Italy, are commonplace in Malta and Gozo, celebrating weddings, ] and, most prominently, ]. On saints' days, in the morning, the ''festa'' reaches its apex with a ] featuring a sermon on the life and achievements of the patron saint. In the evening, a statue of the religious patron is taken around the local streets in solemn procession, with the faithful following in prayer. The atmosphere of religious devotion is preceded by several days of celebration and revelry: band marches, ], and late-night parties. The largest festa is possibly that of the ], which is celebrated in 8 parishes on the 15 August and in 2 other parishes the following Sunday.<ref>{{cite web |title=Malta celebrates Santa Marija: A day of faith, history, and festivity |url=https://newsbook.com.mt/en/malta-celebrates-santa-marija-a-day-of-faith-history-and-festivity/ |website=Newsbook}}</ref>] at the ''festa'' of ]|left]]] (Maltese: ''il-karnival ta' Malta'') has had an important place on the cultural calendar after ] It is held during the week leading up to ], and typically includes masked balls, fancy dress and grotesque mask competitions, lavish late-night parties, a colourful, ticker-tape parade of allegorical ] presided over by King Carnival (Maltese: ''ir-Re tal-Karnival''), marching bands and costumed revellers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 March 2017 |title=The Malta Independent on Sunday |url=https://www.pressreader.com/malta/the-malta-independent-on-sunday/20170312/282226600527054 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191219090605/https://www.pressreader.com/malta/the-malta-independent-on-sunday/20170312/282226600527054 |archive-date=19 December 2019 |access-date=19 December 2019 |via=PressReader}}</ref>


] (Maltese: ''il-Ġimgħa Mqaddsa'') starts on ] (''Ħadd il-Palm'') and ends on ] (''Ħadd il-Għid'').
]

Traditional Maltese weddings featured the bridal party walking in procession beneath an ornate canopy, from the home of the bride's family to the parish church, with singers trailing behind serenading the bride and groom. The Maltese word for this custom is ''il-ġilwa''. This custom along with many others has long since disappeared from the Islands, in the face of modern practices.

New wives would wear the ], a traditional item of Maltese clothing. However, it is no longer worn in modern Malta. Today's couples are married in churches or chapels in the village or town of their choice. The nuptials are usually followed by a lavish and joyous wedding reception, often including several hundred guests. Occasionally, couples will try to incorporate elements of the traditional Maltese wedding in their celebration. A resurgent interest in the traditional wedding was evident in May 2007, when thousands of Maltese and tourists attended a traditional Maltese wedding in the style of the 16th century, in the Village of ]. This included ''il-ġilwa'', which led the bride and groom to a wedding ceremony that took place on the ] of St. Andrew's Chapel. The reception that followed featured folklore music ('']'') and dancing.

===Festivals===
].]]

Local festivals, similar to those in southern Italy, are commonplace in Malta and Gozo, celebrating weddings, ] and, most prominently, ]' days, honouring the patron saint of the local parish. On saints' days, the ''festa'' reaches its apex with a ] featuring a sermon on the life and achievements of the patron saint, after which a ] of the religious patron is taken around the local streets in solemn procession, with the faithful following in respectful prayer. The atmosphere of religious devotion quickly gives way to several days of celebration and revelry: band processions, ], and late night parties. Lija is one villages with a notable firework display.

] (Maltese: ''il-karnival ta' Malta'') has had an important place on the cultural calendar after ] ] introduced it to the Islands in 1535. It is held during the week leading up to ], and typically includes masked balls, fancy dress and grotesque mask competitions, lavish late-night parties, a colourful, ticker-tape parade of allegorical ] presided over by King Carnival (Maltese: ''ir-Re tal-Karnival''), marching bands and costumed revellers.

] (Maltese: ''il-Ġimgħa Mqaddsa'') starts on ] (''Ħadd il-Palm'') and ends on ] (''Ħadd il-Għid''). Numerous religious traditions, most of them inherited from one generation to the next, are part of the ] celebrations in the Maltese Islands, honouring the death and resurrection of Jesus.


<!-- This section is linked from 29 June --> <!-- This section is linked from 29 June -->
Mnarja, or l-Imnarja (pronounced ''lim-nar-ya'') is one of the most important dates on the Maltese cultural calendar. Officially, it is a national festival dedicated to the feast of ]s ] and ]. Its roots can be traced back to the pagan ] feast of ''Luminaria'' (literally, "the illumination"), when torches and bonfires lit up the early summer night of 29 June. ], or l-Imnarja (pronounced ''lim-nar-ya'') is one of the most important dates on the Maltese cultural calendar. Officially, it is a national festival dedicated to the feast of ]s ] and ]. Its roots can be traced back to the pagan ] feast of ''Luminaria'' (literally, "the illumination"), when torches and bonfires lit up the early summer night of 29 June.<ref>''Malta Recent Economic and Political Developments Yearbook Volume 1 Strategic Information and Developments'' {{ISBN|978-1-433-06350-3}} p. 41</ref> The festivities still commence today with the reading of the ''"bandu"'', an official governmental announcement, which has been read on this day in Malta since the 16th century. It is said that under the Knights, this was the one day in the year when the Maltese were allowed to hunt and eat ], which was otherwise reserved for the hunting pleasures of the Knights. The close connection between Mnarja and ] (Maltese: ''"fenkata"'') remains strong today.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Cassar |first=Carmel |url=https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/bitstream/123456789/23890/1/FENKATA.PDF |title=Fenkata: An emblem of Maltese peasant resistance? |date=1994 |publisher=Ministry for Youth and the Arts |access-date=18 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218193705/https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/bitstream/123456789/23890/1/FENKATA.PDF |archive-date=18 December 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref>


] in Żebbuġ|202x202px]]Isle of MTV is a one-day music festival produced and broadcast on an annual basis by MTV. The festival has been arranged annually in Malta since 2007, with major pop artists performing each year. 2012 saw the performances of worldwide acclaimed artists ], ] and ]. Over 50,000 people attended, which marked the biggest attendance so far.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Isle of MTV 2012 |url=http://www.gozoandmalta.com/galleries/index.php/Isle-of-MTV-2012---Photos-by-Clint-Gerald-Attard |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120708022315/http://www.gozoandmalta.com/galleries/index.php/Isle-of-MTV-2012---Photos-by-Clint-Gerald-Attard |archive-date=8 July 2012 |access-date=28 June 2012 |publisher=gozoandmalta}}</ref>
A national feast since the rule of the ], Mnarja is a traditional Maltese festival of food, religion and music. The festivities still commence today with the reading of the ''"bandu"'', an official governmental announcement, which has been read on this day in Malta since the 16th century. Originally, Mnarja was celebrated outside St. Paul's Grotto, in the north of Malta. However, by 1613 the focus of the festivities had shifted to the Cathedral of ], in ], and featured torchlight processions, the firing of 100 petards, horseraces, and races for men, boys and slaves. Modern Mnarja festivals take place in and around the woodlands of ], just outside the town of ].


The Malta International Fireworks Festival has been arranged annually in the ] of Valletta since 2003.<ref>{{Cite news |date=25 February 2016 |title=Top 25 Annual Events in Malta Not to Miss |work=MaltaUncovered.com |url=https://www.maltauncovered.com/things-to-do/top-events/ |access-date=4 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180104192312/https://www.maltauncovered.com/things-to-do/top-events/ |archive-date=4 January 2018}}</ref>
It is said that under the Knights, this was the one day in the year when the Maltese were allowed to hunt and eat ], which was otherwise reserved for the hunting pleasures of the Knights. The close connection between Mnarja and rabbit stew (Maltese: ''"fenkata"'') remains strong today.


===Media===
In 1854 British governor ] launched an agricultural show at Buskett which is still being held today. The farmers' exhibition is still a seminal part of the Mnarja festivities today.
{{further|List of newspapers in Malta|List of radio stations in Malta|Television in Malta}}
The most widely read and financially the strongest newspapers are published by Allied Newspapers Ltd., mainly '']'' (27 percent) and its Sunday edition ''The Sunday Times of Malta'' (51.6 percent).{{Citation needed|date=August 2017}} Due to ] half of the newspapers are published in English and the other half in ]. The Sunday newspaper ''It-Torċa'' ("The Torch") published by a subsidiary of the ], is the widest Maltese language paper. Its sister paper, '']'' ("The Horizon"), is the Maltese daily with the biggest circulation. There is a high number of daily or weekly newspapers&mdash;one for every 28,000&nbsp;people. Advertising, sales, and ] are the three main methods of financing.<ref name="a1">{{Cite web |last=Borg, Joseph |title=Malta – Media Landscape |url=http://ejc.net/media_landscapes/malta |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160214170706/http://ejc.net/media_landscapes/malta |archive-date=14 February 2016 |access-date=10 March 2016 |website=European Journalism Centre}}</ref>


There are nine terrestrial television channels in Malta: ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Debattista |first=Martin |date=20 October 2011 |title=Analogue TV is dead: Long live digital TV! |work=The Times of Malta |url=http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20111020/technology/Analogue-TV-is-dead-Long-live-digital-TV-.389995 |url-status=live |access-date=3 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408015221/http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20111020/technology/Analogue-TV-is-dead-Long-live-digital-TV-.389995 |archive-date=8 April 2016}}</ref> The state and ] subsidise most of the funding of these channels. TVM, TVMNews+, and Parliament TV are operated by ], the ], and members of the ]. Media.link Communications Ltd., the owner of NET Television, and ]., the owner of One, are affiliated with the ] and ] parties, respectively. The rest are privately owned. The Malta Broadcasting Authority has authority to supervise all local broadcasting stations and ensures their compliance with legal and licence obligations as well as the preservation of due impartiality.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About Us |url=https://ba.org.mt/about-us |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=ba.org.mt}}</ref>
Mnarja today is one of the few occasions when participants may hear traditional Maltese "]". Traditionally, grooms would promise to take their brides to Mnarja during the first of year of marriage. For luck, many of the brides would attend in their wedding gown and veil, although this custom has long since disappeared from the Islands.


The Malta Communications Authority reported that there were 147,896 pay TV subscriptions active at the end of 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MCA Communications Market Review, July to December 2012 |url=https://www.mca.org.mt/sites/default/files/attachments/reports/2013/cmr-sh-2012-report-24-04-2012.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512091647/http://www.mca.org.mt/sites/default/files/attachments/reports/2013/cmr-sh-2012-report-24-04-2012.pdf |archive-date=12 May 2013 |access-date=11 June 2013 |publisher=Malta Communications Authority}}</ref> For reference the 2011 census counts 139,583 households in Malta.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Census of Population and Housing 2011 (Preliminary Report) |url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=3424 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515202638/http://nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=3424 |archive-date=15 May 2013 |access-date=11 June 2013 |publisher=National Statistics Office, Malta}}</ref> Satellite reception is available to receive other European television networks.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Broadcasting Authority |url=https://ba.org.mt/en/home |access-date=2024-04-16 |website=ba.org.mt |archive-date=20 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220820053003/https://ba.org.mt/en/home |url-status=live }}</ref>
Isle of MTV is a one-day music festival produced and broadcast on an annual basis by MTV. The festival has been arranged annually in Malta since 2007, with major pop artists performing each year. 2012 saw the performances of worldwide acclaimed artists Flo Rida, Nelly Furtado and Will.I.Am at Fosos Square in Floriana. Over 50,000 people attended, which marked the biggest attendance so far.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gozoandmalta.com/galleries/index.php/Isle-of-MTV-2012---Photos-by-Clint-Gerald-Attard |title=Isle of MTV 2012 |publisher=gozoandmalta |accessdate=28 June 2012}}</ref>

In 2009 the first New Year's Eve street party was organised in Malta, parallel to what other major countries in the world organise. Although the event was not highly advertised and controversial, due to the closing of an arterial street on the day, it is deemed to have been successful and will most likely be organised every year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maltanewyearseve.com |title=Malta New Years Eve Celebrations |publisher=Maltanewyearseve.com |accessdate=2 August 2010}}</ref>

The Malta International Fireworks Festival is an annual festival that has been arranged in the Grand Harbour of Valletta since 2003. The festival offers fireworks displays of a number of Maltese as well as foreign fireworks factories. The festival is usually held in the last week of April every year.

===Holidays===
<center>
{|class="wikitable"
|+Maltese public holidays
|-
!Day
!Holiday
|-
|1 January
|New Year's Day
|-
|10 February
|]
|-
|19 March
|]
|-
|31 March
|]
|-
|March/April (date changes)
|]
|-
|1 May
|]
|-
|7 June
|]
|-
|29 June
|]
|-
|15 August
|]
|-
|8 September
|]
|-
|21 September
|]
|-
|8 December
|]
|-
|13 December
|]
|-
|25 December
|Christmas Day
|}
</center>


===Sport=== ===Sport===
{{Main|Sport in Malta}} {{Main|Sport in Malta}}
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Malta. Other popular sports include ], horse racing, ], ], ], ], and motorsports.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.welcome-center-malta.com/post/top-sports-in-malta-traditional-and-most-common|access-date=10 September 2023|title=Top sports in Malta|publisher=Welcome Center Malta}}</ref>
] is the home ground of the ]]]
Association football is the most popular sport in Malta. The national stadium is called ]. The ] has won several matches over big opponents that reached the final phases in ], such as ] and ]. Recently a large number of football grounds have been built throughout the island. The top football league in Malta is called the ], and consists of 12 teams. ] is also very popular.


In 2018 Malta hosted its first ] tournament, 'Supernova CS:GO Malta',<ref>{{Cite web |title=Supernova CS:GO Malta &#124; Malta's first ever pro esports tournament |url=https://www.supernovamalta.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190816074525/https://www.supernovamalta.com/ |archive-date=16 August 2019 |access-date=18 January 2020}}</ref> a ] tournament.<ref>{{Cite web |title=SUPERNOVA CS:GO MALTA |url=https://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2018-11/supernova-cs-go-malta-12050 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190709144543/https://www.visitmalta.com/en/event-details/2018-11/supernova-cs-go-malta-12050 |archive-date=9 July 2019 |access-date=9 July 2019 |website=Visitmalta.com}}</ref> Also since 2018, Malta has become the primary location for hosting the ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=ESL Pro League remains in Malta until 2024 |url=https://esportsinsider.com/2022/08/esl-pro-league-remains-in-malta-until-2024 |access-date=22 March 2023 |website=esportsinsider.com |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322130141/https://esportsinsider.com/2022/08/esl-pro-league-remains-in-malta-until-2024 |url-status=live }}</ref>
] is also very popular in Malta. The ] has achieved some great results against strong teams, and has competed in the Olympics twice. Maltese clubs participate in the European Club competitions organised by LEN, are seen as being in the top 10 waterpolo leagues in Europe.


==See also==
] is popular in Malta, with the ] currently (March 2014) ranked 43rd in the world. They have recently been achieving great success, defeating teams like Sweden, Croatia and Latvia.
{{Portal|Malta|EU|Europe}}
* ]
* ]
{{clear}}


== Notes ==
] includes Drag Racing (Malta Drag Racing Association), with recent high ranking Maltese Dragsters in official FIA European championships, Autocross (ASMK), Hillclimb (Island Car Club), Motocross, Karting, Banger racing championships.
{{Notelist}}


==References==
] is played in Malta, with the ] currently ranked 43rd in the world (March 2014). The National team are known as the ], and boast players currently playing in the ].
===Citations===
{{Reflist}}


===Sources===
Malta also hosts a ] round, the ], which {{as of|lc=y|2008}} became a non-ranking event.{{Citation needed|date=January 2009}} In 2008 Malta's ] was a member of a victorious European ] team, which was played in Portomaso, Malta.{{Citation needed|date=January 2009}} ] was ] in 2014. Boxer ] is of Maltese descent.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youngvictorboxing.com.au/jeff_fenech2.htm |title=Jeff Fenech |publisher=Youngvictorboxing.com.au |accessdate=31 March 2009}}</ref> Recently contact sports such as ] and ] have become inceasingly popular.
* {{Cite book |last=Cramer |first=John Anthony |url=https://archive.org/details/ageographicalan04cramgoog |title=Geographical and Historical Description of Ancient Greece |publisher=Clarendon Press |year=1828 |pages=–46}}
* {{Cite web |title=Map of Malta and Gozo |url=http://www.maltastreetmap.com/ |access-date=10 April 2009 |website=Street Map of Malta and Gozo |archive-date=16 July 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090716061437/http://www.maltastreetmap.com/ |url-status=dead }}
* {{Cite web |title=Photos of Gozo sister island of Malta |url=http://www.gozo.us |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081023015349/http://www.gozo.us/ |archive-date=23 October 2008 |access-date=17 November 2006 |website=Photos of Gozo}}
* {{Cite web |title=Photos of Malta |url=http://www.pvv.org/~bct/malta/ |access-date=26 May 2008 |archive-date=30 June 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080630175003/http://www.pvv.org/~bct/malta/ |url-status=live }}
* {{Cite web |title=Malta |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/malta/ |website=] |date=22 September 2021 |access-date=23 January 2021 |archive-date=2 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402195116/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/malta/ |url-status=live }}
* {{Cite web |title=Gov.mt |url=http://www.gov.mt |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010516224507/http://www.gov.mt/ |archive-date=16 May 2001 |access-date=1 November 2005 |website=Government of Malta}}
* {{spaced ndash}}Volume 2007/1, Thematic Issue on Malta
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200609171214/http://primo.nli.org.il/primo-explore/fulldisplay?vid=NLI&docid=NNL_MAPS_JER002471715&context=L |date=9 June 2020 }}.. Eran Laor Cartographic Collection. The ]
<!--*For the migration section: https://web.archive.org/web/20110719181436/http://www.alternattiva.org.mt/filebank/documents/Fiona%20TEXEIRE-%20At%20the%20Gate%20of%20Fortress%20Europe.pdf -->


===Attribution===
There are over 1,200 ] routes in Malta. The island offers a mixture of both ] and ] and also offers a good variety of ] and ]. The geography and small size of the island makes the climbing easily accessible. The sport is growing in popularity with local communities, as well as tourists and visitors.
* {{Cite encyclopedia |title=Malta |url=http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761555566/Malta.html |access-date=1 November 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091028215840/http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761555566/Malta.html |archive-date=28 October 2009 |encyclopedia=MSN Encarta }}


===Bibliography===
Boċċi is the Maltese version of the Italian game of ], French ] and British ]. Other than certain differences in rules and the ground on which the game is played, one of the most obvious differences between Maltese boċċi and foreign equivalents is the shape of the bowls themselves which tend to be cylindrical rather than spherical in shape. Many small clubs (usually called Klabbs tal-Boċċi in ]) can be found in Maltese and Gozitan localities, and are usually well-frequented and are quite active on a local and European level.
* {{Cite news |date=15 April 1942 |title=1942: Malta gets George Cross for bravery |work=BBC "On this day" |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/april/15/newsid_3530000/3530301.stm |access-date=22 June 2006 |archive-date=7 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180807051148/http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/april/15/newsid_3530000/3530301.stm |url-status=live }}
* {{Cite book |last=Bowen-Jones |first=Howard |title=Malta Background for Development |publisher=University of Durham |year=1962 |oclc=204863 |display-authors=etal}}
* {{Cite book |last=Cassar |first=Carmel |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=c3nJnQEACAAJ |title=A Concise History of Malta |date=2000 |publisher=Mireva Publications |isbn=978-1-870579-52-0}}
* {{Cite EB1911|wstitle=Malta|volume=17|pages=507–514}}
* {{Cite book |last=Francesco Balbi di Correggio 1568 translated Ernle Bradford |title=The Siege of Malta 1565 |publisher=Penguin |year=2003 |orig-date=1965 |isbn=978-0-14-101202-5 |chapter=chapter II}}
* {{Cite book |last=Carolyn Bain |url=https://archive.org/details/lonelyplanetmalt00caro |title=Malta |publisher=Lonely Planet Publication |year=2004 |isbn=978-1-74059-178-2}}
* Charles Mifsud, The Climatological History of The Maltese Islands, Minerva 1984
* {{Cite book |last=Paul Williams |title=Malta&nbsp;– Island Under Siege |publisher=Pen and Sword Books |year=2009 |isbn=978-1-84884-012-6}}
* {{Cite book |last1=Rudolf |first1=Uwe Jens |title=Historical Dictionary of Malta |last2=Berg |first2=W. G. |publisher=Scarecrow Press |year=2010 |isbn=978-0-8108-5317-1 |page=43 |ref=DIC_11}}
* {{Cite book |last=United Nations Development Programme |url=https://archive.org/details/humandevelopment0000unse_t5c8 |title=Human Development Report 2005&nbsp;– International cooperation at a crossroads: Aid, trade and security in an unequal world |publisher=Oxford University Press |year=2006 |isbn=978-0-19-522146-6 |url-access=registration}}
*{{cite book|last=Atauz|first= Ayse Devrim |year=2008|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FWsUAQAAIAAJ |title=Eight Thousand Years of Maltese Maritime History: Trade, Piracy, and Naval Warfare in the Central Mediterranean|publisher= University Press of Florida|isbn=978-0-8130-3179-8}}
*{{cite book |last1=Hardman |first1=William |title=A history of Malta during the period of the French and British occupations, 1798–1815 |date=1909 |publisher=Longmans, Green & Co |chapter-url=https://archive.org/stream/historyofmaltadu00hard#page/44/mode/2up |chapter=Chapter VII – Attack and Capture of Malta by the French}}
* {{citation |last=Culican |first=William |author-link=William Culican |contribution=Phoenicia and Phoenician Colonization |title=The Cambridge Ancient History |pages=461–546 |date=1992 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |location=] }}.
* {{citation |last=Filigheddu |first=Paolo |contribution=Die Ortsnamen des Mittelmeerraums in der Phönizischen und Punischen Überlieferung |pages=149–266 |publisher=Ugarit Verlag |date=2007 |editor=Manfried Dietrich |editor2=Oswald Loretz |display-editors=0 |location=Munster |title=Ugarit-Forschungen: Internationales Jahrbuch für die Altertumskunde Syrien-Palästinas |volume={{nbsp}} 38 2006 |ref={{harvid|Filigheddu|2006}} }}. {{in lang|de}}


==Further reading==
The South End Core is a group of supporters or 'ultras' who support the Maltese national teams. They mainly support football, futsal, water polo and rugby. They organise decorations, banners, chanting and ] to support their country.
* Hastings, Max (2021). ''Operation Pedestal: The Fleet that Battled to Malta, 1942''. New York: HarperCollins. {{ISBN|9780008364960}}

==Media==
{{Further2|]}}
The most widely read and financially the strongest newspapers are published by Allied Newspapers Ltd., mainly '']'' (27%) and ''The Sunday Times'' (51.6%). Due to ] half of the newspapers are published in English and the other half in ]. The Sunday newspaper ''It-Torċa'' (The Torch) published by the Union Press, a subsidiary of the ], is the paper with the biggest circulation in the Maltese language. Its sister paper, ], is the Maltese daily with biggest circulation. There is a high number of daily or weekly newspapers, there is one paper for every 28,000&nbsp;people. Advertising, sales and ] are the three main methods of financing newspapers and magazines. However, most of the papers and magazines tied to institutions are subsidised by the same institutions, they depend on advertising or subsidies from their owners.<ref name="a1"/>

{{Further2|]}}
There is a great presence of the institutions&nbsp;– ], political parties, trade unions&nbsp;– in the print media, though not as in the broadcasting media. Trade Unions are not represented in the broadcasting media, but are in the print media, and only the ] owns a newspaper. The ], the second-biggest ], has no newspaper, TV, or radio stations.<ref name="a1">Joseph Borg. {{dead link|date=October 2013}}. Centre for Communication Technology (8 November 2010).</ref>

{{Further2|]|]}}
There are six major nationwide television channels in Malta: ], ], ], ], Favourite Channel, Calypso Music TV, TVM 2 and TVM HD&nbsp;– currently transmitted by analogue terrestrial, free-to-air signals. The state and ] subsidise most of the funding of these television stations. The ] is the state-owned station and is a member of the ]. Media Link Communications Ltd and ] are affiliated with the ] and ] respectively. The rest are privately owned. The Broadcasting Authority supervises all local broadcasting stations and ensures their compliance with legal and licence obligations as well as the preservation of due impartiality; in respect of matters of political or industrial controversy or relating to current public policy; while fairly apportioning broadcasting facilities and time between persons belong to different political parties. The Broadcasting Authority ensures that local broadcasting services consist of public, private and community broadcasts that offer varied and comprehensive programming to cater for all interests and tastes.

The Malta Communications Authority reported that there were 147,896 pay TV subscriptions active at the end of 2012, which includes analogue and digital cable, pay digital terrestrial TV and IPTV.<ref>{{cite web|title=MCA Communications Market Review, July to December 2012|url=https://www.mca.org.mt/sites/default/files/attachments/reports/2013/cmr-sh-2012-report-24-04-2012.pdf|publisher=Malta Communications Authority|accessdate=11 June 2013}}</ref> For reference the latest census counts 139,583 households in Malta.<ref>{{cite web|title=Census of Population and Housing 2011 (Preliminary Report)|url=http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=3424|publisher=National Statistics Office, Malta|accessdate=11 June 2013}}</ref> Satellite reception is available to receive other European television networks such as the ] from Great Britain and ] and ] from Italy.

==Sister cities==
The Republic of Malta has the following ]:

* {{flagicon|USA}} ]

In addition, a number of individual cities, towns and villages in Malta have sister cities abroad: see ]

==See also==
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]
*]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

;Bibliography
*{{Cite book|first=John Anthony|last=Cramer|title=Geographical and Historical Description of Ancient Greece|publisher=Clarendon Press|year=1828|pages=45–46|url=http://books.google.com/books?id=A38OAAAAQAAJ&printsec=frontcover}}
*{{cite web|title=Map of Malta and Gozo |work=Street Map of Malta and Gozo |url=http://www.maltastreetmap.com/ |accessdate=10 April 2009}}
*{{cite web|title=Photos of Gozo sister island of Malta |work=Photos of Gozo |url=http://www.gozo.us |accessdate=17 November 2006}}
*{{cite web|title=Photos of Malta |work=Photos of Malta |url=http://www.pvv.org/~bct/malta/ |accessdate=26 May 2008}}
*{{cite web|title=Malta |work=] |url=https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mt.html |accessdate=6 September 2006}}
*{{cite web|title=Gov.mt |work=Government of Malta |url=http://www.gov.mt|accessdate=1 November 2005}}
*{{Cite encyclopedia|title=Malta |work=MSN Encarta |url=http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761555566/Malta.html |accessdate=1 November 2005|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5kx4HpFtQ|archivedate=1 November 2009|deadurl=yes}}
*{{Cite news|title=1942: Malta gets George Cross for bravery |work=BBC "On this day" |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/april/15/newsid_3530000/3530301.stm|accessdate=22 June 2006|date=15 April 1942}}
*{{Cite book |first=H. Bowen |last=Jones |author2=et al.|title=Malta Background for Development |publisher=Dhurham College |year=1962 |oclc=204863}}
*{{Cite book |author=Carolyn Bain|title=Malta |publisher=Lonely Planet Publication |year=2004 |isbn=1-74059-178-X}}
*{{Cite book |author=Paul Williams|title=Malta&nbsp;– Island Under Siege|publisher=Pen and Sword Books|year=2009 |isbn=978-1-84884-012-6|url=http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/?product_id=1860}}
*Charles Mifsud, The Climatological History of The Maltese Islands, Minerva 1984
*{{Cite book | last1=Rudolf | first1=Uwe Jens |last2 = Berg |first2 = W. G. | title=Historical Dictionary of Malta | publisher=Scarecrow Press | location=USA| year=2010| isbn=9780810853171| page=43| ref=DIC_11}}
*{{Cite book |last=United Nations Development Programme|title=Human Development Report 2005&nbsp;– International cooperation at a crossroads: Aid, trade and security in an unequal world |year=2006 |publisher=Oxford University Press |url=http://hdr.undp.org/reports/global/2005/ |isbn=0-19-522146-X}}

<!--*For the migration section: http://www.alternattiva.org.mt/filebank/documents/Fiona%20TEXEIRE-%20At%20the%20Gate%20of%20Fortress%20Europe.pdf -->
*{{dead link|date=October 2013}}{{spaced ndash}}Volume 2007/1, Thematic Issue on Malta


==External links== ==External links==
{{Sister project links|Malta|voy=Malta}} {{Sister project links|Malta|voy=Malta}}
<!-- BEFORE ADDING PLEASE DISCUSS ON THE TALK PAGE. THIS MEASURE HAS BEEN TAKEN IN THE LIGHT OF PERSISTENT ADDITIONS OF COMMERCIAL LINKS AND VANDALISM TO THIS SECTION. ADDING SPAM WILL RESULT IN A WARNING! -->
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120805145229/https://www.gov.mt/ |date=5 August 2012 }}{{spaced ndash}}Maltese Government official site
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180429225759/http://www.mepa.org.mt/ |date=29 April 2018 }} ]
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814230953/https://www.visitmalta.com/en/home |date=14 August 2020 }} – Maltese tourism official site
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402195116/https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/malta/ |date=2 April 2021 }}. '']''. ].
* {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304114648/http://ucblibraries.colorado.edu/govpubs/for/malta.htm |date=4 March 2016 }} from ''UCB Libraries GovPubs''
* {{Wikiatlas|Malta}}
* {{osmrelation-inline|365307}}


<!--BEFORE ADDING PLEASE DISCUSS ON THE TALK PAGE. THIS MEASURE HAS BEEN TAKEN IN THE LIGHT OF PERSISTENT ADDITIONS OF COMMERCIAL LINKS AND VANDALISM TO THIS SECTION. ADDING SPAM WILL RESULT IN A WARNING! -->
; Government
*{{spaced ndash}}Maltese Government official site
*{{spaced ndash}}The Official Laws of Malta website.
*
* ]
*

; General information
*&nbsp;– Wiki about Malta containing both general and travel related information
*{{CIA World Factbook link|mt|Malta}}
* from ''UCB Libraries GovPubs''
*{{dmoz|Regional/Europe/Malta}}
* from the ]
*{{Wikiatlas|Malta}}
*{{osmrelation-inline|365307}}
*&nbsp;– An information source on immigration and Malta (scholarly articles, policy documents, press releases etc.)

; Media
*&nbsp;– online news
*
*
*

; Travel
*
*

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Latest revision as of 12:32, 10 January 2025

Island country in Southern Europe This article is about the country. For other uses, see Malta (disambiguation).

Republic of MaltaRepubblika ta' Malta (Maltese)
Flag of Malta Flag Coat of arms of Malta Coat of arms
Motto: Virtute et constantia (Latin)
"Strength and persistence"
Anthem: L-Innu Malti (Maltese)
"The Maltese Hymn"
Location of Malta (green circle) – in Europe (light green & dark grey) – in the European Union (light green)  –  Location of Malta (green circle)

– in Europe (light green & dark grey)
– in the European Union (light green)  –  [Legend]

CapitalValletta
35°54′N 14°31′E / 35.900°N 14.517°E / 35.900; 14.517
Largest administrative unitSt. Paul's Bay
Official languages
Other languagesMaltese Sign Language
Italian
Ethnic groups (2021)
Religion (2021)
Demonym(s)Maltese
GovernmentUnitary parliamentary republic
• President Myriam Spiteri Debono
• Prime Minister Robert Abela
LegislatureParliament of Malta
Independence from the United Kingdom
• State of Malta 21 September 1964
• Republic 13 December 1974
Area
• Total316 km (122 sq mi) (187th)
• Water (%)0.001
Population
• 2021 census542,051
• Density1,649/km (4,270.9/sq mi) (8th)
GDP (PPP)2024 estimate
• TotalIncrease $36.870 billion (140th)
• Per capitaIncrease $67,682 (20th)
GDP (nominal)2024 estimate
• TotalIncrease $22.737 billion (118th)
• Per capitaIncrease $41,738 (25th)
Gini (2020)Negative increase 31.4
medium inequality
HDI (2022)Increase 0.915
very high (25th)
CurrencyEuro () (EUR)
Time zoneUTC+1 (Central European Time)
• Summer (DST)UTC+2 (Central European Summer Time)
Drives onLeft
Calling code+356
ISO 3166 codeMT
Internet TLD.mt
  1. 2021 Malta census Chapter 4: Racial Origin according to the most recent national census. Meanwhile 77.8% of the population were Maltese citizens or nationals.
  2. Also .eu, shared with other European Union member states

Malta (/ˈmɒltə/ MOL-tə, /ˈmɔːltə/ MAWL-tə, Maltese: [ˈmɐːltɐ]), officially the Republic of Malta, is an island country in Southern Europe located in the Mediterranean Sea, between Sicily and North Africa. It consists of an archipelago 80 km (50 mi) south of Italy, 284 km (176 mi) east of Tunisia, and 333 km (207 mi) north of Libya. The two official languages are Maltese and English. The country's capital is Valletta, which is the smallest capital city in the EU by both area and population. It was also the first World Heritage City in Europe to become a European Capital of Culture in 2018.

With a population of about 542,000 over an area of 316 km (122 sq mi), Malta is the world's tenth-smallest country by area and the ninth most densely populated. Various sources consider the country to consist of a single urban region, for which it is often described as a city-state.

Malta has been inhabited since about 5900 BC. Its location in the centre of the Mediterranean has historically given it great geostrategic importance, with a succession of powers having ruled the islands and shaped its culture and society. These include the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, and Romans in antiquity; the Arabs, Normans, and Aragonese during the Middle Ages; and the Knights Hospitaller, French, and British in the modern era. Malta came under British rule in the early 19th century and served as the headquarters for the British Mediterranean Fleet. It was besieged by the Axis powers during World War II and was an important Allied base for North Africa and the Mediterranean. Malta achieved independence in 1964, and established its current parliamentary republic in 1974. It has been a member state of the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations since independence; it joined the European Union in 2004 and the eurozone monetary union in 2008.

Malta's long history of foreign rule and close proximity to both Europe and North Africa have influenced its art, music, cuisine, and architecture. Malta has close historical and cultural ties to Italy and especially Sicily; between 62 and 66 percent of Maltese people speak or have significant knowledge of the Italian language, which had official status from 1530 to 1934. Malta was an early centre of Christianity, and Roman Catholicism is the state religion, although the country's constitution guarantees freedom of conscience and religious worship.

Malta is a developed country with an advanced high-income economy. It is heavily reliant on tourism, attracting both travelers and a growing expatriate community with its warm climate, numerous recreational areas, and architectural and historical monuments, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, Valletta, and seven megalithic temples which are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

Name

The English name Malta derives from Italian and Maltese Malta, from medieval Arabic Māliṭā (مَالِطَا), from classical Latin Melita, from latinised or Doric forms of the ancient Greek Melítē (Μελίτη) of uncertain origin. The name Melítē—shared by the Croatian island Mljet in antiquity—literally means "place of honey" or "sweetness", derived from the combining form of méli (μέλι, "honey" or any similarly sweet thing) and the suffix (). The ancient Greeks may have given the island this name after Malta's endemic subspecies of bees. Alternatively, other scholars argue for derivation of the Greek name from an original Phoenician or Punic Maleth (𐤌𐤋𐤈, mlṭ), meaning "haven" or "port" in reference to the Grand Harbour and its primary settlement at Cospicua following the sea level rise that separated the Maltese islands and flooded its original coastal settlements in the 10th century BC. The name was then applied to all of Malta by the Greeks and to its ancient capital at Mdina by the Romans.

Malta and its demonym Maltese are attested in English from the late 16th century. The Greek name appears in the Book of Acts in the Bible's New Testament. English translations including the 1611 King James Version long used the Vulgate Latin form Melita, although William Tyndale's 1525 translation from Greek sources used the transliteration Melite instead. Malta is widely used in more recent versions. The name is attested earlier in other languages, however, including some medieval manuscripts of the Latin Antonine Itinerary.

History

Main article: History of Malta

Prehistory

See also: Megalithic Temples of Malta, Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, and Għar Dalam

Malta has been inhabited from circa 5900 BC, since the arrival of settlers originating from European Neolithic agriculturalists. Pottery found by archaeologists at the Skorba Temples resembles that found in Italy, and suggests that the Maltese islands were first settled in 5200 BC by Stone Age hunters or farmers who had arrived from Sicily, possibly the Sicani. The extinction of the dwarf hippos, giant swans and dwarf elephants has been linked to the earliest arrival of humans on Malta. Prehistoric farming settlements dating to the Early Neolithic include Għar Dalam. The population on Malta grew cereals, raised livestock and, in common with other ancient Mediterranean cultures, worshipped a fertility figure.

Ġgantija megalithic temple complex

A culture of megalithic temple builders then either supplanted or arose from this early period. Around 3500 BC, these people built some of the oldest existing free-standing structures in the world in the form of the megalithic Ġgantija temples on Gozo; other early temples include those at Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra. The temples have distinctive architecture, typically a complex trefoil design, and were used from 4000 to 2500 BC. Tentative information suggests that animal sacrifices were made to the goddess of fertility, whose statue is now in the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. Another archaeological feature of the Maltese Islands often attributed to these ancient builders is equidistant uniform grooves dubbed "cart tracks" or "cart ruts" which can be found in several locations throughout the islands, with the most prominent being those found in Misraħ Għar il-Kbir. These may have been caused by wooden-wheeled carts eroding soft limestone. The culture apparently disappeared from the islands around 2500 BC, possibly due to famine or disease.

After 2500 BC, the Maltese Islands were depopulated for several decades until an influx of Bronze Age immigrants, a culture that cremated its dead and introduced smaller megalithic structures called dolmens. They are claimed to belong to a population certainly different from that which built the previous megalithic temples. It is presumed the population arrived from Sicily because of the similarity of Maltese dolmens to some small constructions found there.

Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans

See also: Magna Graecia, Phoenicia, Cippi of Melqart, Ancient Rome, Sicilia (Roman province), and Byzantine Malta
The lands which comprise modern-day Malta were a part of the Byzantine Empire (the empire in 555 under Justinian the Great, at its greatest extent since the fall of the Western Roman Empire (its vassals in pink)).

Phoenician traders colonised the islands under the name Ann (𐤀𐤍𐤍‎, ʾNN) sometime after 1000 BC as a stop on their trade routes from the eastern Mediterranean to Cornwall. Their seat of government was apparently at Mdina, which shared the island's name; the primary port was at Cospicua on the Grand Harbour, which they called Maleth. After the fall of Phoenicia in 332 BC, the area came under the control of Carthage. During this time, the people on Malta mainly cultivated olives and carob and produced textiles.

Roman mosaic from the Domvs Romana

During the First Punic War, the island was conquered after harsh fighting by Marcus Atilius Regulus. After the failure of his expedition, the island fell back in the hands of Carthage, only to be conquered again during the Second Punic War in 218 BC by the Roman consul Tiberius Sempronius Longus. After that, Malta became a Foederata Civitas, a designation that meant it was exempt from paying tribute or the rule of Roman law, and fell within the jurisdiction of the province of Sicily. Its capital at Mdina was renamed Melita after the Greek and Roman name for the island. Punic influence, however, remained vibrant on the islands with the famous Cippi of Melqart, pivotal in deciphering the Punic language, dedicated in the second century BC. Local Roman coinage, which ceased in the first century BC, indicates the slow pace of the island's Romanisation: the last locally minted coins still bear inscriptions in Ancient Greek and Punic motifs, showing the resistance of the Greek and Punic cultures.

In the second century, Emperor Hadrian (r. 117–38) upgraded the status of Malta to a municipium or free town: the island's local affairs were administered by four quattuorviri iuri dicundo and a municipal senate, while a Roman procurator living in Mdina represented the proconsul of Sicily. In AD 58, Paul the Apostle and Luke the Evangelist were shipwrecked on the islands. Paul remained for three months, preaching the Christian faith. The island is mentioned at the Acts of the Apostles as Melitene (Ancient Greek: Μελιτήνη).

In 395, when the Roman Empire was divided for the last time at the death of Theodosius I, Malta, following Sicily, fell under the control of the Western Roman Empire. During the Migration Period as the Western Roman Empire declined, Malta was conquered or occupied a number of times. From 454 to 464 the islands were subdued by the Vandals, and after 464 by the Ostrogoths. In 533, Belisarius, on his way to conquer the Vandal Kingdom in North Africa, reunited the islands under Imperial (Eastern) rule. Little is known about the Byzantine rule in Malta: the island depended on the theme of Sicily and had Greek governors and a small Greek garrison. While the bulk of population continued to be constituted by the old, Latinized dwellers, during this period its religious allegiance oscillated between the Pope and the Patriarch of Constantinople. The Byzantine rule introduced Greek families to the Maltese collective. Malta remained under the Byzantine Empire until 870, when it was conquered by the Arabs.

Arab period and the Middle Ages

See also: Arab–Byzantine wars and Islam in Malta

Malta became involved in the Arab–Byzantine wars, and the conquest of Malta is closely linked with that of Sicily that began in 827 after Admiral Euphemius' betrayal of his fellow Byzantines, requesting that the Aghlabids invade the island. The Muslim chronicler and geographer al-Himyari recounts that in 870, following a violent struggle against the defending Byzantines, the Arab invaders, first led by Halaf al-Hadim, and later by Sawada ibn Muhammad, pillaged the island, destroying the most important buildings, and leaving it practically uninhabited until it was recolonised by the Arabs from Sicily in 1048–1049. It is uncertain whether this new settlement resulted from demographic expansion in Sicily, a higher standard of living in Sicily (in which case the recolonisation may have taken place a few decades earlier), or a civil war which broke out among the Arab rulers of Sicily in 1038. The Arab Agricultural Revolution introduced new irrigation, cotton, and some fruits. The Siculo-Arabic language was adopted on the island from Sicily; it eventually evolved into the Maltese language.

Norman conquest

Main article: Norman invasion of Malta
Roger I of Sicily returned Malta to Christian rule.

The Normans attacked Malta in 1091, as part of their conquest of Sicily. The Norman leader, Roger I of Sicily, was welcomed by Christian captives. The notion that Count Roger I reportedly tore off a portion of his checkered red-and-white banner and presented it to the Maltese in gratitude for having fought on his behalf, forming the basis of the modern flag of Malta, is founded in myth.

Malta became part of the newly formed Kingdom of Sicily, which also covered the island of Sicily and the southern half of the Italian Peninsula. The Roman Catholic Church was reinstated as the state religion, with Malta under the See of Palermo, and some Norman architecture sprang up around Malta, especially in its ancient capital Mdina. King Tancred made Malta a fief of the kingdom and installed a Count of Malta in 1192. As the islands were much desired due to their strategic importance, it was during this time that the men of Malta were militarised to fend off attempted conquest; early Counts were skilled Genoese privateers.

The kingdom passed on to the Hohenstaufen dynasty from 1194 until 1266. As Emperor Frederick II began to reorganise his Sicilian kingdom, Western culture and religion started to exert their influence more intensely. Malta was declared a county and a marquisate, but its trade was totally ruined. For a long time it remained solely a fortified garrison.

A mass expulsion of Arabs occurred in 1224, and the entire Christian male population of Celano in Abruzzo was deported to Malta in the same year. In 1249 Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, decreed that all remaining Muslims be expelled from Malta or compelled to convert.

For a brief period, the kingdom passed to the Capetian House of Anjou, but high taxes made the dynasty unpopular in Malta, due in part to Charles of Anjou's war against the Republic of Genoa, and the island of Gozo was sacked in 1275.

Crown of Aragon, the Knights of Malta and Portuguese Rule

See also: County of Sicily, Kingdom of Sicily, Crown of Aragon, Hospitaller Malta, and Great Siege of Malta
Flag of the Aragonese Kingdom of Sicily

Malta was ruled by the House of Barcelona, the ruling dynasty of the Crown of Aragon, from 1282 to 1409, with the Aragonese aiding the Maltese insurgents in the Sicilian Vespers in the naval battle in Grand Harbour in 1283.

Relatives of the kings of Aragon ruled the island until 1409 when it formally passed to the Crown of Aragon. Early on in the Aragonese ascendancy, the sons of the monarchs received the title Count of Malta. During this time much of the local nobility was created. By 1397, however, the bearing of the comital title reverted to a feudal basis, with two families fighting over the distinction. This led King Martin I of Sicily to abolish the title. The dispute over the title returned when the title was reinstated a few years later and the Maltese, led by the local nobility, rose up against Count Gonsalvo Monroy. Although they opposed the Count, the Maltese voiced their loyalty to the Sicilian Crown, which so impressed King Alfonso V that he did not punish the people for their rebellion. Instead, he promised never to grant the title to a third party and incorporated it back into the crown. The city of Mdina was given the title of Città Notabile.

St. Paul's Cathedral, Mdina built in the Baroque style

On 23 March 1530, Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, gave the islands to the Knights Hospitaller under the leadership of Frenchman Philippe Villiers de L'Isle-Adam, in perpetual lease for which they had to pay an annual tribute of a single Maltese Falcon. These knights, a military religious order also known as the Order of St John and later as the Knights of Malta, had been driven out of Rhodes by the Ottoman Empire in 1522.

The Knights Hospitaller ruled Malta and Gozo between 1530 and 1798. During this period, the strategic and military importance of the island grew greatly as the small yet efficient fleet of the Order of Saint John launched their attacks from this new base targeting the shipping lanes of the Ottoman territories around the Mediterranean Sea.

In 1551, the population of the island of Gozo (around 5,000 people) were enslaved by Barbary pirates and taken to the Barbary Coast in North Africa.

Ottoman attack on the post of the Castilian knights on 21 August 1565

The knights, led by Frenchman Jean Parisot de Valette, withstood the Great Siege of Malta by the Ottomans in 1565. The knights, with the help of Portuguese, Spanish and Maltese forces, repelled the attack. After the siege they decided to increase Malta's fortifications, particularly in the inner-harbour area, where the new city of Valletta, named in honour of Valette, was built. They also established watchtowers along the coasts – the Wignacourt, Lascaris and De Redin towers – named after the Grand Masters who ordered the work. The Knights' presence on the island saw the completion of many architectural and cultural projects, including the embellishment of Città Vittoriosa (modern Birgu) and the construction of new cities including Città Rohan (modern Ħaż-Żebbuġ). However, by the late 1700s the power of the Knights had declined and the Order had become unpopular.

French period and British conquest

Main articles: French occupation of Malta and Siege of Malta (1798–1800)
Bust of Bonaparte at Palazzo Parisio in Valletta

The Knights' reign ended when Napoleon captured Malta on his way to Egypt during the French Revolutionary Wars in 1798. During 12–18 June 1798, Napoleon resided at the Palazzo Parisio in Valletta. He reformed national administration with the creation of a Government Commission, twelve municipalities, a public finance administration, the abolition of all feudal rights and privileges, the abolition of slavery and the granting of freedom to all Turkish and Jewish slaves. On the judicial level, a family code was framed and twelve judges were nominated. Public education was organised along principles laid down by Bonaparte himself, providing for primary and secondary education. He then sailed for Egypt, leaving a substantial garrison in Malta.

The French forces left behind became unpopular with the Maltese, due particularly to the French forces' hostility towards Catholicism and pillaging of local churches to fund war efforts. French financial and religious policies so angered the Maltese that they rebelled, forcing the French to depart. Great Britain, along with the Kingdom of Naples and the Kingdom of Sicily, sent ammunition and aid to the Maltese, and Britain also sent its navy, which blockaded the islands.

On 28 October 1798, Captain Sir Alexander Ball successfully completed negotiations with the French garrison on Gozo for a surrender and transfer of the island to the British. The British transferred the island to the locals that day, and it was administered by Archpriest Saverio Cassar on behalf of Ferdinand III of Sicily. Gozo remained independent until Cassar was removed by the British in 1801.

General Claude-Henri Belgrand de Vaubois surrendered his French forces in 1800. Maltese leaders presented the main island to Sir Alexander Ball, asking that the island become a British Dominion. The Maltese people created a Declaration of Rights in which they agreed to come "under the protection and sovereignty of the King of the free people, His Majesty the King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland". The Declaration also stated that "his Majesty has no right to cede these Islands to any power...if he chooses to withdraw his protection, and abandon his sovereignty, the right of electing another sovereign, or of the governing of these Islands, belongs to us, the inhabitants and aborigines alone, and without control."

British Empire and the Second World War

Main articles: Malta Protectorate, Crown Colony of Malta, and Siege of Malta (World War II)
The heavily bomb-damaged Kingsway (now Republic Street) in Valletta during the siege of Malta, 1942

In 1814, as part of the Treaty of Paris, Malta officially became a part of the British Empire and was used as a shipping way-station and fleet headquarters. After the Suez Canal opened in 1869, Malta's position halfway between the Strait of Gibraltar and Egypt proved to be its main asset, and it was considered an important stop on the way to India, a central trade route for the British.

A Turkish Military Cemetery was commissioned by Sultan Abdul Aziz and built between 1873 and 1874 for the fallen Ottoman soldiers of the Great Siege of Malta.

Between 1915 and 1918, during the First World War, Malta became known as the Nurse of the Mediterranean due to the large number of wounded soldiers who were accommodated there. In 1919, British troops fired into a crowd protesting against new taxes, killing four. The event, known as Sette Giugno ("7 June"), is commemorated every year and is one of five National Days. Until the Second World War, Maltese politics was dominated by the Language Question fought out by Italophone and Anglophone parties.

Before the Second World War, Valletta was the location of the Royal Navy's Mediterranean fleet headquarters; however, despite Winston Churchill's objections, the command was moved to Alexandria, Egypt, in 1937 out of fear that it was too susceptible to air attacks from Europe. During the war Malta played an important role for the Allies; being a British colony, situated close to Sicily and the Axis shipping lanes, Malta was bombarded by the Italian and German air forces. Malta was used by the British to launch attacks on the Italian Navy and had a submarine base. It was also used as a listening post, intercepting German radio messages including Enigma traffic. The bravery of the Maltese people during the second siege of Malta moved King George VI to award the George Cross to Malta on a collective basis on 15 April 1942. Some historians argue that the award caused Britain to incur disproportionate losses in defending Malta, as British credibility would have suffered if Malta had surrendered, as British forces in Singapore had done. A depiction of the George Cross now appears on the Flag of Malta and the country's arms.

Independence and Republic

See also: State of Malta
Monument to the independence of Malta in Floriana
Malta joined the European Union in 2004 and signed the Lisbon Treaty in 2007.

Malta achieved its independence as the State of Malta on 21 September 1964 (Independence Day). Under its 1964 constitution, Malta initially retained Elizabeth II as Queen of Malta and thus head of state, with a governor-general exercising executive authority on her behalf. In 1971, the Malta Labour Party led by Dom Mintoff won the general elections, resulting in Malta declaring itself a republic on 13 December 1974 (Republic Day) within the Commonwealth. A defence agreement was signed soon after independence, and after being re-negotiated in 1972, expired on 31 March 1979 (Freedom Day). Upon its expiry, the British base closed and lands formerly controlled by the British were given to the Maltese government.

In the aftermath of the departure of the remaining British troops in 1979, the country intensified its participation in the Non-Aligned Movement. Malta adopted a policy of neutrality in 1980. In that same year, three of Malta's sites, including the capital Valletta, were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In 1989, Malta was the venue of a summit between US President George H. W. Bush and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, their first face-to-face encounter, which signalled the end of the Cold War. Malta International Airport was inaugurated and became fully operational on 25 March 1992, boosting the local aircraft and tourism industry. A referendum on joining the European Union was held on 8 March 2003, with 53.65% in favour. Malta joined the European Union on 1 May 2004 and the eurozone on 1 January 2008.

Politics

Main articles: Politics of Malta, Government of Malta, Law of Malta, and Foreign relations of Malta Robert Abela
Prime Minister of Malta
since 13 January 2020
The Parliament House in Valletta

Malta is a republic whose parliamentary system and public administration are closely modelled on the Westminster system. The unicameral parliament is made up of the president of Malta and the House of Representatives (Maltese: Kamra tad-Deputati).

The House of Representatives has 65 members, elected for a five-year term in 13 five-seat electoral divisions, called distretti elettorali, with constitutional amendments that allow for mechanisms to establish strict proportionality amongst seats and votes of political parliamentary groups. Members of the House of Representatives are elected by direct universal suffrage through single transferable vote every five years, unless the House is dissolved earlier by the president either on the advice of the prime minister or through a motion of no confidence. Malta had the second-highest voter turnout in the world (and the highest for nations without mandatory voting), based on election turnout in national lower house elections from 1960 to 1995.

The president of Malta, a largely ceremonial position, is appointed for a five-year term by a resolution of the House of Representatives carried by a simple majority. The president is the head of state. The current president of the republic is Myriam Spiteri Debono, who was elected on 27 March 2024, by members of parliament in an indirect election. The 80th article of the Constitution of Malta provides that the president appoint as prime minister "the member of the House of Representatives who, in his judgment, is best able to command the support of a majority of the members of that House".

Maltese politics is a two-party system dominated by the Labour Party (Maltese: Partit Laburista), a centre-left social democratic party, and the Nationalist Party (Maltese: Partit Nazzjonalista), a centre-right Christian democratic party. The Labour Party has been the governing party since 2013 and is currently led by Prime Minister Robert Abela, who has been in office since 13 January 2020. There are a number of small political parties in Malta which have no parliamentary representation.

Administrative divisions

Main articles: Local councils of Malta, Districts of Malta, and Regions of Malta
Administrative divisions of Malta

Malta has had a system of local government since 1993, based on the European Charter of Local Self-Government. The country is divided into six regions (one of them being Gozo), with each region having its own Regional Council, serving as the intermediate level between local government and national government. The regions are divided into local councils, of which there are currently 68 (54 in Malta and 14 in Gozo). The six districts (five on Malta and the sixth being Gozo) serve primarily statistical purposes.

Each council is made up of a number of councillors (from 5 to 13, depending on and relative to the population they represent). A mayor and a deputy mayor are elected by and from the councillors. The executive secretary, who is appointed by the council, is the executive, administrative and financial head of the council. Councillors are elected every four years through the single transferable vote. Due to system reforms, no elections were held before 2012. Since then, elections have been held every two years for an alternating half of the councils.

Local councils are responsible for the general upkeep and embellishment of the locality (including repairs to non-arterial roads), allocation of local wardens, and refuse collection; they also carry out general administrative duties for the central government such as the collection of government rents and funds and answer government-related public inquiries. Additionally, a number of individual towns and villages in the Republic of Malta have sister cities.

Military

Main article: Armed Forces of Malta
Maltese patrol ship at Hay Wharf, Floriana

The objectives of the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) are to maintain a military organisation with the primary aim of defending the islands' integrity according to the defence roles as set by the government in an efficient and cost-effective manner. This is achieved by emphasising the maintenance of Malta's territorial waters and airspace integrity.

The AFM also engages in combating terrorism, fighting against illicit drug trafficking, conducting anti-illegal immigrant operations and patrols, and anti-illegal fishing operations, operating search and rescue (SAR) services, and physical or electronic security and surveillance of sensitive locations. Malta's search-and-rescue area extends from east of Tunisia to west of Crete, an area of around 250,000 km (97,000 sq mi).

As a military organisation, the AFM provides backup support to the Malta Police Force (MPF) and other government departments/agencies in situations as required in an organised, disciplined manner in the event of national emergencies (such as natural disasters) or internal security and bomb disposal.

In 2020, Malta signed and ratified the UN treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

Human rights

See also: LGBT rights in Malta and Human rights in Malta

Malta is regarded as one of the most LGBT-supportive countries in the world, and was the first nation in the European Union to prohibit conversion therapy. Malta also constitutionally bans discrimination based on disability. Maltese legislation recognises both civil and canonical (ecclesiastical) marriages. Annulments by the ecclesiastical and civil courts are unrelated and are not necessarily mutually endorsed. Malta voted in favour of divorce legislation in a referendum held on 28 May 2011.

Abortion in Malta is illegal. It and Poland are the only European Union members with near-total bans on the procedure. There are no exceptions for rape or incest. On 21 November 2022, the government led by the Labour Party proposed a bill that "introduces a new clause into the country's criminal code allowing for the termination of a pregnancy if the mother's life is at risk or if her health is in serious jeopardy". As of 2023, an exception was added to allow abortion only if the mother's life is at risk.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Malta
Satellite photo of Maltese islands

Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean (in its eastern basin), some 80 km (50 mi) from southern Italy across the Malta Channel. Only the three largest islands—Malta (Maltese: Malta), Gozo (Għawdex), and Comino (Kemmuna)—are inhabited. The islands of the archipelago lie on the Malta plateau, a shallow shelf formed from the high points of a land bridge between Sicily and North Africa that became isolated as sea levels rose after the last ice age. The archipelago is located on the African tectonic plate. Malta was considered an island of North Africa for centuries. The seabed surrounding Malta's islands retains traces of ancient geomarine features, suggesting potential archaeological discoveries that could shed light on the region's prehistoric environment.

Numerous bays along the indented coastline of the islands provide good harbours. The landscape consists of low hills with terraced fields. The highest point in Malta is Ta' Dmejrek, at 253 m (830 ft), near Dingli. Although there are some small rivers at times of high rainfall, there are no permanent rivers or lakes on Malta. However, some watercourses have fresh water running all year round at Baħrija near Ras ir-Raħeb, at l-Imtaħleb and San Martin, and at Lunzjata Valley in Gozo.

Phytogeographically, Malta belongs to the Liguro-Tyrrhenian province of the Mediterranean region within the Boreal Kingdom. According to the WWF, the territory of Malta belongs to the terrestrial ecoregion of Tyrrhenian-Adriatic sclerophyllous and mixed forests.

The following uninhabited minor islands are part of the archipelago:

Climate

Main article: Climate of Malta

Malta has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csa), with mild winters and hot summers, hotter in the inland areas. Rain occurs mainly in autumn and winter, with summer being generally dry.

The average yearly temperature is around 23 °C (73 °F) during the day and 15.5 °C (59.9 °F) at night. In the coldest month – January – the typical maximum temperature ranges from 12 to 18 °C (54 to 64 °F) during the day and minimum 6 to 12 °C (43 to 54 °F) at night. In the warmest month – August – the typical maximum temperature ranges from 28 to 34 °C (82 to 93 °F) during the day and minimum 20 to 24 °C (68 to 75 °F) at night. Amongst all capitals in the continent of Europe, Valletta – the capital of Malta has the warmest winters, with average temperatures of around 15 to 16 °C (59 to 61 °F) during the day and 9 to 10 °C (48 to 50 °F) at night in the period January–February. In March and December average temperatures are around 17 °C (63 °F) during the day and 11 °C (52 °F) at night. Large fluctuations in temperature are rare. Snow is very rare, although snowfalls have been recorded in the last century, the last one in 2014.

The average annual sea temperature is 20 °C (68 °F), from 15–16 °C (59–61 °F) in February to 26 °C (79 °F) in August. In the 6 months – from June to November – the average sea temperature exceeds 20 °C (68 °F).

The annual average relative humidity is high, averaging 75%, ranging from 65% in July (morning: 78% evening: 53%) to 80% in December (morning: 83% evening: 73%).

Sunshine duration hours total around 3,000 per year, from an average 5.2 hours of sunshine duration per day in December to an average above 12 hours in July. This is about double that of cities in the northern half of Europe, for comparison: London – 1,461; however, in winter it has up to four times more sunshine; for comparison: in December, London has 37 hours of sunshine whereas Malta has above 160.

Climate data for Malta (Luqa in the south-east part of main island, 1991–2020)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 15.7
(60.3)
15.7
(60.3)
17.4
(63.3)
20.0
(68.0)
24.2
(75.6)
28.7
(83.7)
31.7
(89.1)
32.0
(89.6)
28.6
(83.5)
25.0
(77.0)
20.8
(69.4)
17.2
(63.0)
23.1
(73.6)
Daily mean °C (°F) 12.9
(55.2)
12.6
(54.7)
14.1
(57.4)
16.4
(61.5)
20.1
(68.2)
24.2
(75.6)
26.9
(80.4)
27.5
(81.5)
24.9
(76.8)
21.8
(71.2)
17.9
(64.2)
14.5
(58.1)
19.5
(67.1)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 10.1
(50.2)
9.5
(49.1)
10.9
(51.6)
12.8
(55.0)
15.8
(60.4)
19.6
(67.3)
22.1
(71.8)
23.0
(73.4)
21.2
(70.2)
18.4
(65.1)
14.9
(58.8)
11.8
(53.2)
15.9
(60.6)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 79.3
(3.12)
73.2
(2.88)
45.3
(1.78)
20.7
(0.81)
11.0
(0.43)
6.2
(0.24)
0.2
(0.01)
17.0
(0.67)
60.7
(2.39)
81.8
(3.22)
91.0
(3.58)
93.7
(3.69)
580.7
(22.86)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) 10.0 8.2 6.1 3.8 1.5 0.8 0.0 1.0 4.3 6.6 8.7 10.0 61
Mean monthly sunshine hours 169.3 178.1 227.2 253.8 309.7 336.9 376.7 352.2 270.0 223.8 195.0 161.2 3,054
Source: Meteo Climate (1991–2020 Data), MaltaWeather.com (Sun data)

Urbanisation

The main urban area of Malta. Valletta is the central peninsula.

According to Eurostat, Malta is composed of two larger urban zones nominally referred to as "Valletta" (the main island of Malta) and "Gozo". The main urban area covers the entire main island, with a population of around 400,000. The core of the urban area, the greater city of Valletta, has a population of 205,768. According to the data from 2020 by Eurostat, the Functional Urban Area and metropolitan region covered the whole island and has a population of 480,134. According to the United Nations, about 95 percent of the area of Malta is urban and the number grows every year. According to ESPON and EU Commission studies, "the whole territory of Malta constitutes a single urban region".

Malta, with area of 316 km (122 sq mi) and population of over 0.5 million, is one of the most densely populated countries worldwide. It is in some sources referred to as a city-state. Sometimes Malta is listed in rankings concerning cities or metropolitan areas.

Flora

Main article: Flora of Malta
National plant: Maltese centaury (Widnet il‑Baħar, since 1971)

The Maltese islands are home to a wide diversity of indigenous, sub-endemic and endemic plants. They feature many traits typical of a Mediterranean climate, such as drought resistance. The most common indigenous trees on the islands are olive (Olea europaea), carob (Ceratonia siliqua), fig (Ficus carica), holm oak (Quericus ilex) and Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis), while the most common non-native trees are eucalyptus, acacia and opuntia. Endemic plants include the national flower widnet il-baħar (Cheirolophus crassifolius), sempreviva ta' Malta (Helichrysum panormitanum subsp. melitense), żigland t' Għawdex (Hyoseris frutescens) and ġiżi ta' Malta (Matthiola incana subsp. melitensis) while sub-endemics include kromb il-baħar (Jacobaea maritima subsp. sicula) and xkattapietra (Micromeria microphylla). The biodiversity of Malta is severely endangered by habitat loss, invasive species and human intervention.

Economy

Main article: Economy of Malta
This section needs to be updated. Please help update this article to reflect recent events or newly available information. (December 2019)
A new and modern financial centre opened in 2021.
Central Bank of Malta, Pope Pius V Street in Valletta, Malta

Malta is classified as an advanced economy according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Malta's major resources are limestone, a favourable geographic location and a productive labour force. Malta produces only about 20 percent of its food needs, has limited fresh water supplies because of the drought in the summer, and has no domestic energy sources, aside from the potential for solar energy from its plentiful sunlight. The economy is dependent on foreign trade (serving as a freight trans-shipment point), manufacturing (especially electronics and textiles), and tourism. Film production has contributed to the Maltese economy.

Access to biocapacity in Malta is below the world average. In 2016, Malta had 0.6 global hectares of biocapacity per person within its territory, contrasted with a global average of 1.6 hectares per person. Additionally, residents of Malta exhibited an ecological footprint of consumption of 5.8 global hectares of biocapacity per person, resulting in a sizable biocapacity deficit.

Malta is part of a monetary union, the eurozone (dark blue).

In preparation for Malta's membership in the European Union, which it joined on 1 May 2004, it privatised some state-controlled firms and liberalised markets. Malta has a financial regulator, the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), with a strong business development mindset, and the country has been successful in attracting gaming businesses, aircraft and ship registration, credit-card issuing banking licences and also fund administration. Malta has made strong headway in implementing EU Financial Services Directives including UCITs IV and Alternative Investment Fund Managers (AIFMs). As a base for alternative asset managers who must comply with new directives, Malta has attracted a number of key players including IDS, Iconic Funds, Apex Fund Services and TMF/Customs House.

As of 2015, Malta did not have a property tax. Its property market, especially around the harbour area, was booming, with the prices of apartments in some towns like St Julian's, Sliema and Gzira skyrocketing.

According to Eurostat data, Maltese GDP per capita stood at 88 per cent of the EU average in 2015 with €21,000.

The National Development and Social Fund from the Individual Investor Programme, a citizenship by investment programme also known as the "citizenship scheme", became a significant income source for the government of Malta, adding 432,000,000 euro to the budget in 2018.

Banking and finance

See also: List of banks in Malta
Portomaso Business Tower, the second tallest building in Malta

The two largest commercial banks are Bank of Valletta and HSBC Bank Malta. Digital banks such as Revolut have also increased in popularity. The Central Bank of Malta (Bank Ċentrali ta' Malta) has two key areas of responsibility: the formulation and implementation of monetary policy and the promotion of a sound and efficient financial system. The Maltese government entered ERM II on 4 May 2005, and adopted the euro as the country's currency on 1 January 2008.

Currency

Main articles: Maltese euro coins and Euro gold and silver commemorative coins (Malta)

Maltese euro coins feature the Maltese cross on €2 and €1 coins, the coat of arms of Malta on the €0.50, €0.20 and €0.10 coins, and the Mnajdra Temples on the €0.05, €0.02 and €0.01 coins.

Malta has produced collectors' coins with face value ranging from 10 to 50 euros. These coins continue an existing national practice of minting of silver and gold commemorative coins. Unlike normal issues, these coins are not accepted in all the eurozone.

From its introduction in 1972 until the introduction of the Euro in 2008, the currency was the Maltese lira, which had replaced the Maltese pound. The pound replaced the Maltese scudo in 1825.

Tourism

Main article: Tourism in Malta
Mellieħa Bay beach

Malta is a popular tourist destination, with 1.6 million tourists per year, three times more tourists visit than there are residents. Tourism infrastructure has increased dramatically over the years and a number of hotels are present on the island, although overdevelopment and the destruction of traditional housing is of growing concern. In 2019, Malta had a record year in tourism, recording over 2.1 million tourists in one single year.

In recent years, Malta has advertised itself as a medical tourism destination, and a number of health tourism providers are developing the industry. However, no Maltese hospital has undergone independent international healthcare accreditation. Malta is popular with British medical tourists, pointing Maltese hospitals towards seeking UK-sourced accreditation, such as with the Trent Accreditation Scheme.

Tourism in Malta contributes around 11.6 percent of the country's gross domestic product.

Science and technology

Malta signed a co-operation agreement with the European Space Agency (ESA) for more-intensive co-operation in ESA projects. The Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST) is the civil body responsible for the development of science and technology on an educational and social level. Most science students in Malta graduate from the University of Malta and are represented by S-Cubed (Science Student's Society), UESA (University Engineering Students Association) and ICTSA (University of Malta ICT Students' Association). Malta was ranked 29th in the Global Innovation Index in 2024.

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of Malta
Self-identified racial origin - 2021 census
Racial origin
Caucasian 89.1%
Asian 5.2%
Arab 1.7%
African 1.5%
Hispanic or Latino 1.3%
More than one racial origin 1.2%

As of the 2021 census, Maltese-born natives make up the majority of the island with 386,280 people out of a total population of 519,562. However, there are minorities, the largest of which by birthplace were: 15,082 from the United Kingdom, Italy (13,361), India (7,946), Philippines (7,784) and Serbia (5,935). Among racial origins for the non-Maltese, 58.1% of all identified as Caucasian, 22.2% Asian, 6.3% Arab, 6.0% African, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino and 2.9% more than one race.

As of 2005, 17 percent were aged 14 and under, 68 percent were within the 15–64 age bracket whilst the remaining 13 percent were 65 years and over. Malta's population density of 1,282 per square km (3,322/sq mi) is by far the highest in the EU and one of the highest in the world.

Valletta, Malta's capital

The Maltese-resident population for 2004 was estimated to make up 97.0 per cent of the total resident population. All censuses since 1842 have shown a slight excess of females over males. Population growth has slowed down, from +9.5 per cent between the 1985 and 1995 censuses, to +6.9 per cent between the 1995 and 2005 censuses (a yearly average of +0.7 per cent). The birth rate stood at 3860 (a decrease of 21.8 per cent from the 1995 census) and the death rate stood at 3025. Thus, there was a natural population increase of 835 (compared to +888 for 2004, of which over a hundred were foreign residents). The population's age composition is similar to the age structure prevalent in the EU. Malta's old-age-dependency-ratio rose from 17.2 percent in 1995 to 19.8 percent in 2005, reasonably lower than the EU's 24.9 percent average; 31.5 percent of the Maltese population is aged under 25 (compared to the EU's 29.1 percent); but the 50–64 age group constitutes 20.3 percent of the population, significantly higher than the EU's 17.9 percent. Malta's old-age-dependency-ratio is expected to continue rising steadily in the coming years.

In 2021, the population of the Maltese Islands stood at 519,562.

The total fertility rate (TFR) as of 2016 was estimated at 1.45 children born/woman, which is below the replacement rate of 2.1. In 2012, 25.8 per cent of births were to unmarried women. The life expectancy in 2018 was estimated at 83.

Languages

Main article: Languages of Malta
Il-Kantilena by Pietru Caxaro, the oldest text in Maltese language, 15th century

The Maltese language (Maltese: Malti) is one of the two constitutional languages of Malta and is considered the national language. The second official language is English and hence laws are enacted both in Maltese and English. However, article 74 of the Constitution states that "if there is any conflict between the Maltese and the English texts of any law, the Maltese text shall prevail." Many speakers of English use a local dialect, Maltese English.

Maltese is a Semitic language descended from the now extinct Sicilian-Arabic (Siculo-Arabic) dialect (from southern Italy) that developed during the Emirate of Sicily. The Maltese alphabet consists of 30 letters based on the Latin alphabet.

In 2022, Malta National Statistics Office states that 90 percent of the Maltese population has at least a basic knowledge of Maltese, 96 percent of English, 62 percent of Italian, and 20 percent of French. This widespread knowledge of second languages makes Malta one of the most multilingual countries in the European Union. A study collecting public opinion on what language was "preferred" discovered that 86 percent of the population preferred Maltese, 12 percent English, and 2 percent Italian. Italian television channels from Italy-based broadcasters, such as Mediaset and RAI, reach Malta and remain popular.

Maltese Sign Language is used by signers in Malta.

Religion

Main article: Religion in Malta Further information: History of the Jews in Malta, Christianity in Malta, and Islam in Malta

Religion in Malta (2021 census)

  Roman Catholic Church (82.6%)  Eastern Orthodox (3.6%)  Church of England (1.3%)  Other Protestantism (1%)  Islam (3.9%)  Hinduism (1.4%)  Buddhism (0.5%)  Judaism (0.3%)  Other religious groups (0.04%)  No religion (5.1%)

The predominant religion in Malta is Roman Catholicism. The second article of the Constitution of Malta establishes Roman Catholicism as the state religion and it is also reflected in various elements of Maltese culture, although there are entrenched provisions for the freedom of religion. There are more than 360 churches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino, or one church for every 1,000 residents. The parish church (Maltese: "il-parroċċa", or "il-knisja parrokkjali") is the architectural and geographic focal point of every Maltese town and village.

Malta is an Apostolic See; the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 28) tells of how St. Paul was shipwrecked on the island of "Melite", which many Biblical scholars identify with Malta, an episode dated around AD 60. The first Maltese saint, Saint Publius is said to have been made Malta's first bishop. Further evidence of Christian practices and beliefs during the period of Roman persecution appears in catacombs that lie beneath various sites around Malta, including St. Paul's Catacombs. There are also a number of cave churches, including the grotto at Mellieħa, which is a Shrine of the Nativity of Our Lady where, according to legend, St. Luke painted a picture of the Virgin Mary. It has been a place of pilgrimage since the medieval period.

For centuries, the Church in Malta was subordinate to the Diocese of Palermo, except when it was under Charles of Anjou, who appointed bishops for Malta, as did – on rare occasions – the Spanish and later, the Knights. Since 1808 all bishops of Malta have been Maltese. The patron saints of Malta are Saint Paul, Saint Publius, and Saint Agatha. Although not a patron saint, St George Preca (San Ġorġ Preca) is greatly revered as the second canonised Maltese saint after St. Publius. Various Roman Catholic religious orders are present in Malta, including the Jesuits, Franciscans, Dominicans, Carmelites and Little Sisters of the Poor.

There exists a considerable minority of Eastern Orthodox Christians in Malta, of which there are 16,457, according to the 2021 census; although the number may also include Oriental Orthodox Christians, who are not in communion with the former. There are a small number of parishes belonging to each autocephalous Church, typically one for each. There are Greek, Russian, Serbian, Romanian, and Bulgarian Orthodox parishes located around Malta.

Most congregants of the local Protestant churches are not Maltese; their congregations mainly draw on vacationers and British retirees living in the country. There are also a Seventh-day Adventist church in Birkirkara, and a New Apostolic Church congregation founded in 1983 in Gwardamangia. There are approximately 600 Jehovah's Witnesses. Mormonism is also represented with 241 members in 1 congregation in Mosta.

The Beheading of Saint John, by Caravaggio. Oil on canvas, 361 cm × 520 cm (142.13 in × 204.72 in). Oratory of the Co-Cathedral

The Jewish population of Malta reached its peak in the Middle Ages under Norman rule. In 1479, Malta and Sicily came under Aragonese rule and the Alhambra Decree of 1492 forced all Jews to leave the country. Today, there are two Jewish congregations. In 2019 the Jewish community in Malta gathered around 150 persons, slightly more than the 120 (of which 80 were active) estimated in 2003, and mostly elderly. Many among the newer generations decided to settle abroad, including in England and Israel. Most contemporary Maltese Jews are Sephardi, however, an Ashkenazi prayer book is used. In 2013 the Chabad Jewish Centre in Malta was founded.

There is one purpose-built Muslim mosque, the Mariam Al-Batool Mosque, although there are also a few improvised mosques located in Muslim homes spread around the island. Of the estimated 3,000 Muslims in Malta, approximately 2,250 are foreigners, approximately 600 are naturalised citizens, and approximately 150 are native-born Maltese. Zen Buddhism and the Baháʼí Faith claim some 40 members.

In a survey held by Malta Today, the overwhelming majority of the Maltese population adheres to Christianity (95.2%) with Roman Catholicism as the main denomination (93.9%); 4.5% of the population declared themselves either atheist or agnostic, one of the lowest figures in Europe. According to a 2019 Eurobarometer survey, 83% of the population identified as Roman Catholic. The number of atheists has doubled from 2014 to 2018. Non-religious people have a higher risk of suffering from discrimination. In the 2015 edition of the annual Freedom of Thought Report from the International Humanist and Ethical Union, Malta was in the category of "severe discrimination". In 2016, following the abolishment of blasphemy law, Malta was shifted to the category of "systematic discrimination" (same as most EU countries).

Migration

Main articles: Immigration to Malta and Emigration from Malta
Foreign population in Malta
Year Population % total
2005 12,112 3.0%
2011 20,289 4.9%
2019 98,918 21.0%
2020 119,261 23.17%

Historically a land of emigration, since the early 21st century Malta has seen a significant increase in net migration; the foreign-born population has grown nearly eightfold between 2005 and 2020. Most of the foreign community in Malta consists of active or retired British nationals and their dependents, centred on Sliema and surrounding suburbs. Other smaller foreign groups include Italians, Libyans, and Serbians, many of whom have assimilated into the Maltese nation over the decades.

Malta is also home to a large number of foreign workers who migrated to the island for economic opportunity. This migration was driven predominantly in the early 21st century, when the Maltese economy was steadily booming yet the cost and quality of living on the island remained relatively stable. In recent years however the local Maltese housing index has doubled pushing property and rental prices to very high and almost unaffordable levels. Consequently, some expats in Malta have seen their relative financial fortunes decline, with others relocating to other European countries altogether.

Since the late 20th century, Malta has become a transit country for migration routes from Africa towards Europe. As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Agreement, Malta is bound by the Dublin Regulation to process all claims for asylum by those asylum seekers that enter EU territory for the first time in Malta. However, irregular migrants who land in Malta are subject to a compulsory detention policy, being held in several camps organised by the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM), including those near Ħal Far and Ħal Safi. The compulsory detention policy has been denounced by several NGOs, and in July 2010, the European Court of Human Rights found that Malta's detention of migrants was arbitrary, lacking in adequate procedures to challenge detention, and in breach of its obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights. On 8 September 2020, Amnesty International criticised Malta for "illegal tactics" in the Mediterranean, against immigrants who were attempting to cross from North Africa. The reports claimed that the government's approach might have led to avoidable deaths.

In January 2014, Malta started granting citizenship for a €650,000 contribution plus investments, contingent on residence and criminal background checks. This "golden passport" citizenship scheme has been criticized as a fraudulent act by the Maltese Government. Concerns as to whether the Maltese citizenship scheme is allowing an influx of such individuals into the greater European Union have been raised by both the public as well as the European Council on multiple occasions.

Child Migrants' Memorial at the Valletta Waterfront, commemorating the 310 child migrants who travelled to Australia between 1950 and 1965

In the 19th century, most emigration from Malta was to North Africa and the Middle East, although rates of return migration to Malta were high. In the 20th century, most emigrants went to destinations in the New World, particularly to Australia, Canada, and the United States. Post Second World War, Malta's Emigration Department would assist emigrants with the cost of their travel. Between 1948 and 1967, 30 percent of the population emigrated. Between 1946 and the late-1970s, over 140,000 people left Malta on the assisted passage scheme, with 57.6% migrating to Australia, 22% to the UK, 13% to Canada and 7% to the United States. Emigration dropped dramatically after the mid-1970s and has since ceased to be a social phenomenon of significance. However, since Malta joined the EU in 2004 expatriate communities emerged in a number of European countries, particularly in Belgium and Luxembourg.

Education

Main article: Education in Malta See also: List of schools in Malta
University of Malta
National Library in Valletta

Primary schooling has been compulsory since 1946; secondary education up to the age of sixteen was made compulsory in 1971. The state and the Church provide education free of charge, both running a number of schools in Malta and Gozo. As of 2006, state schools are organised into networks known as Colleges and incorporate kindergarten schools, primary and secondary schools. A number of private schools are run in Malta. St. Catherine's High School, Pembroke offers an International Foundation Course for students wishing to learn English before entering mainstream education. As of 2008, there are two international schools, Verdala International School and QSI Malta. The state pays a portion of the teachers' salary in Church schools.

Education in Malta is based on the British model. Primary school lasts six years. Pupils sit for SEC O-level examinations at the age of 16, with passes obligatory in mathematics, a minimum of one science subject, English and Maltese. Pupils may opt to continue studying at a sixth form college for two years, at the end of which students sit for the matriculation examination. Subject to their performance, students may then apply for an undergraduate degree or diploma.

The adult literacy rate is 99.5 per cent.

Maltese and English are both used to teach pupils at the primary and secondary school level, and both languages are also compulsory subjects. Public schools tend to use both Maltese and English in a balanced manner. Private schools prefer to use English for teaching, as is also the case with most departments of the University of Malta; this has a limiting effect on the capacity and development of the Maltese language. Most university courses are in English. The College of Remote and Offshore Medicine based in Malta teaches exclusively in English.

Of the total number of pupils studying a first foreign language at secondary level, 51 per cent take Italian whilst 38 per cent take French. Other choices include German, Russian, Spanish, Latin, Chinese and Arabic.

Malta is also a popular destination to study the English language, attracting over 83,000 students in 2019.

Infrastructure

Transport

Main articles: Transport in Malta and Buses in Malta

Owing to the British colonial rule, traffic in Malta drives on the left. Car ownership in Malta is exceedingly high, considering the very small size of the islands; it is the fourth-highest in the European Union. There were 182,254 registered cars in 1990, giving an automobile density of 577/km (1,494/sq mi). Malta has 2,254 kilometres (1,401 miles) of road, 1,972 km (1,225 mi) (87.5 per cent) of which are paved (as of December 2003).

Maltese Otokar and King Long buses

Buses (xarabank or karozza tal-linja) are the primary method of public transport, established in 1905. Malta's vintage buses operated in the Maltese islands up to 2011 and became popular tourist attractions. To this day they are depicted on many Maltese advertisements and merchandise for tourists.

The bus service underwent extensive reform in July 2011. The management structure changed from having self-employed drivers driving their own vehicles to a service being offered by a single company through a public tender. The public tender was won by Arriva Malta, which introduced a fleet of brand new buses, built by King Long especially for service by Arriva Malta and including a smaller fleet of articulated buses brought in from Arriva London. It also operated two smaller buses for an intra-Valletta route only and 61 nine-metre buses, which were used to ease congestion on high-density routes. Overall Arriva Malta operated 264 buses. On 1 January 2014 Arriva ceased operations in Malta due to financial difficulties, having been nationalised as Malta Public Transport. The government chose Autobuses Urbanos de León (Alsa subsidiary) as its preferred bus operator for the country in October 2014. From October 2022, the bus system is free of charge for residents of Malta.

As of 2021, an underground Malta Metro is being planned, with a projected total cost of €6.2 billion.

Malta Freeport, one of the largest European ports

Malta has three large natural harbours on its main island:

There are also two human-made harbours that serve a passenger and car ferry service that connects Ċirkewwa Harbour on Malta and Mġarr Harbour on Gozo.

Malta International Airport (Ajruport Internazzjonali ta' Malta) is the only airport serving the Maltese islands. It is built on the land formerly occupied by the RAF Luqa air base. A heliport is also located there. The heliport in Gozo is at Xewkija. A former airfield at Ta' Qali houses a national park, stadium, the Crafts Village visitor attraction and the Malta Aviation Museum.

An Air Malta Airbus A320

From 1 April 1974 to 30 March 2024, the national airline was Air Malta, which was based at Malta International Airport and operated services to 22 destinations in Europe and North Africa. The owners of Air Malta were the Government of Malta (98 percent) and private investors (2 percent).

On 31 March 2024, KM Malta Airlines took over as the national airline of Malta. All former Air Malta Airplanes and other assets were transferred to the new airline, together with the staff. KM Malta Airlines is based at Malta International Airport and operates services to 18 destinations in Europe.

In June 2019, Ryanair has invested into a fully-fledged airline subsidiary, called Malta Air, operating a low-cost model. The Government of Malta holds one share in the airline.

Communications

The mobile penetration rate in Malta exceeded 100% by the end of 2009. Malta uses the GSM900, UMTS(3G) and LTE(4G) mobile phone systems, which are compatible with the rest of the European countries, Australia and New Zealand.

In early 2012, the government called for a national Fibre to the Home (FttH) network to be built, with a minimum broadband service being upgraded from 4 Mbit/s to 100 Mbit/s.

Power Generation

Main article: Energy in Malta

Malta relied on coal till 1996 for electricity generation. In 1992, a new power station was built on the Delimara peninsula in Marsaxlokk. Originally the Delimara Power Station in 2015 used oil for electricity generation, before being converted to LNG in 2017. The power station also includes two gasoil-fired plants, which are used as standby power generation capacity during emergencies or lack of other power sources. Since 2015, the Malta–Sicily interconnector allows Malta to be connected to the European power grid and import a significant share of its electricity.

Healthcare

Main article: Healthcare in Malta

Malta has a long history of providing publicly funded health care. The first hospital recorded in the country was already functioning by 1372. Today, Malta has both a public healthcare system, where healthcare is free at the point of delivery, and a private healthcare system. Malta has a strong general practitioner-delivered primary care base and the public hospitals provide secondary and tertiary care. The Maltese Ministry of Health advises foreign residents to take out private medical insurance.

Mater Dei Hospital

Malta also boasts voluntary organisations such as Alpha Medical (Advanced Care), the Emergency Fire & Rescue Unit (E.F.R.U.), St John Ambulance and Red Cross Malta who provide first aid/nursing services during events involving crowds, Malta's primary hospital, opened in 2007. It has one of the largest medical buildings in Europe.

The University of Malta has a medical school and a Faculty of Health Sciences. The Medical Association of Malta represents practitioners of the medical profession. The Foundation Programme followed in the UK has been introduced in Malta to stem the 'brain drain' of newly graduated physicians to the British Isles.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Malta

The culture of Malta reflects the various cultures, that have come into contact with the Maltese Islands throughout the centuries.

Music

Main article: Music of Malta
Manoel Theatre, Europe's third-oldest working theatre. Now Malta's National Theatre and home to the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra.

While Maltese music today is largely Western, traditional Maltese music includes what is known as għana. This consists of background folk guitar music, while a few people, generally men, take it in turns to argue a point in a sing-song voice. Music plays an important part in Maltese culture as each locality parades its own band club, on various occasions these being multiple per locality, and function to establish the thematic musical background to the various village feasts. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra is recognised as Malta's foremost musical institution and is notable for being called to participate in important state events.

Contemporary music in Malta spans a variety of styles and sports international classical talents such as Miriam Gauci and Joseph Calleja, as well as non-classical music bands such as Winter Moods, and Red Electric, and singers like Ira Losco, Fabrizio Faniello, Glen Vella, Kevin Borg, Kurt Calleja, Chiara Siracusa, and Thea Garrett.

Literature

Main article: Maltese literature

Documented Maltese literature is over 200 years old. However, a recently unearthed love ballad testifies to literary activity in the local tongue from the Medieval period. Malta followed a Romantic literary tradition, culminating in the works of Dun Karm Psaila, Malta's national poet. Subsequent writers like Ruzar Briffa and Karmenu Vassallo tried to estrange themselves from the rigidity of formal themes and versification.

The next generation of writers, including Karl Schembri and Immanuel Mifsud, widened the tracks further, especially in prose and poetry.

Architecture

Main article: Architecture of Malta
Lower Barrakka Gardens

Maltese architecture has been influenced by many different Mediterranean cultures and British architecture over its history. The first settlers on the island constructed Ġgantija, one of the oldest manmade freestanding structures in the world. The Neolithic temple builders (3800–2500 BC) endowed the numerous temples of Malta and Gozo with intricate bas-relief designs.

The Roman period introduced highly decorative mosaic floors, marble colonnades, and classical statuary, remnants of which are beautifully preserved and presented in the Roman Domus, a country villa just outside the walls of Mdina. The early Christian frescoes that decorate the catacombs beneath Malta reveal a propensity for eastern, Byzantine tastes. These tastes continued to inform the endeavours of medieval Maltese artists, but they were increasingly influenced by the Romanesque and Southern Gothic movements. Malta is currently undergoing several large-scale building projects, while areas such as the Valletta Waterfront and Tigné Point have been or are being renovated.

Art

Towards the end of the 15th century, Maltese artists, like their counterparts in Sicily, came under the influence of the School of Antonello da Messina, which introduced Renaissance ideals and concepts to the decorative arts in Malta.

The Siege of Malta – Flight of the Turks, by Matteo Perez d'Aleccio

The artistic heritage of Malta blossomed under the Knights of St. John, who brought Italian and Flemish Mannerist painters to decorate their palaces and the churches of these islands, most notably, Matteo Perez d'Aleccio, whose works appear in the Magisterial Palace and in the Conventual Church of St. John in Valletta, and Filippo Paladini, who was active in Malta from 1590 to 1595. For many years, Mannerism continued to inform the tastes and ideals of local Maltese artists.

The arrival in Malta of Caravaggio, who painted at least seven works during his 15-month stay on these islands, further revolutionised local art. Two of Caravaggio's most notable works, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist and Saint Jerome Writing, are on display in the Conventual Church of St. John. His legacy is evident in the works of local artists Giulio Cassarino and Stefano Erardi. However, the Baroque movement that followed was destined to have the most enduring impact on Maltese art and architecture. The vault paintings of the Calabrese artist Mattia Preti transformed the Conventual Church St. John into a Baroque masterpiece. Melchior Gafà emerged as one of the top Baroque sculptors of the Roman School.

Francesco Noletti's Still Life of Pomegranates, Peaches and other Fruits

During the 17th and 18th century, Neapolitan and Rococo influences emerged in the works of the Italian painters Luca Giordano and Francesco Solimena, and these developments can be seen in the work of their Maltese contemporaries such as Gio Nicola Buhagiar and Francesco Zahra. The Rococo movement was greatly enhanced by the relocation to Malta of Antoine de Favray, who assumed the position of court painter to Grand Master Pinto in 1744.

Neo-classicism made some inroads among local Maltese artists in the late-18th century, but this trend was reversed in the early 19th century, as the local Church authorities – perhaps in an effort to strengthen Catholic resolve against the perceived threat of Protestantism during the early days of British rule in Malta – favoured and avidly promoted the religious themes embraced by the Nazarene movement. Romanticism, tempered by the naturalism introduced to Malta by Giuseppe Calì, informed the "salon" artists of the early 20th century, including Edward and Robert Caruana Dingli.

Parliament established the National School of Art in the 1920s. During the reconstruction period that followed the Second World War, the emergence of the "Modern Art Group", whose members included Josef Kalleya, George Preca, Anton Inglott, Emvin Cremona, Frank Portelli, Antoine Camilleri, Gabriel Caruana and Esprit Barthet greatly enhanced the local art scene. This group came together forming an influential pressure group known as the Modern Art Group, which played a leading role in the renewal of Maltese art. Most of Malta's modern artists have in fact studied in Art institutions in England, or on the continent, leading to a diversity of artistic expression that has remained characteristic of contemporary Maltese art. In Valletta, the National Museum of Fine Arts featured work from artists such as H. Craig Hanna. In 2018 the national collection of fine arts was put on display in the new National Museum of Art, MUŻA, at Auberge d'Italie in Valletta.

Cuisine

Main articles: Maltese cuisine and List of Maltese dishes
Pastizzi, a typical Maltese snack

Maltese cuisine shows strong Sicilian and Italian influences as well as influences of English, Spanish, Maghrebin and Provençal cuisines. A number of regional variations can be noted as well as seasonal variations associated with the seasonal availability of produce and Christian feasts (such as Lent, Easter and Christmas). Food has been important historically in the development of a national identity in particular the traditional fenkata (i.e., the eating of stewed or fried rabbit). Potatoes are a staple of the Maltese diet as well.

A number of grapes are endemic to Malta, including Girgentina and Ġellewża. There is a strong wine industry, with significant production of wines using these native grapes, as well as locally grown grapes of other more common varietals. A number of wines have achieved Protected Designation of Origin, with wines produced from grapes cultivated in Malta and Gozo designated as "DOK" wines, that is Denominazzjoni ta' l-Oriġini Kontrollata.

Customs

Main article: Maltese folklore

A 2010 Charities Aid Foundation study found that the Maltese were the most generous people in the world, with 83% contributing to charity.

Maltese folktales include various stories about mysterious creatures and supernatural events. These were most comprehensively compiled by the scholar (and pioneer in Maltese archaeology) Manwel Magri in his core criticism "Ħrejjef Missirijietna" ("Fables from our Forefathers"). This collection of material inspired subsequent researchers and academics to gather traditional tales, fables and legends from all over the Archipelago. While giants, witches, and dragons feature in many of the stories, some contain entirely Maltese creatures like the Kaw kaw, Il-Belliegħa and L-Imħalla among others.

Traditions

Traditional Maltese proverbs reveal cultural importance of childbearing and fertility: "iż-żwieġ mingħajr tarbija ma fihx tgawdija" (a childless marriage cannot be a happy one). This is a belief that Malta shares with many other Mediterranean cultures. In Maltese folktales the local variant of the classic closing formula, "and they all lived happily ever after" is "u għammru u tgħammru, u spiċċat" (and they lived together, and they had children together, and the tale is finished).

Maltese carnival has been celebrated since the 1400s.

Rural Malta shares in common with the Mediterranean society a number of superstitions regarding fertility, menstruation, and pregnancy, including the avoidance of cemeteries leading up to childbirth, and avoiding the preparation of certain foods during menses. Pregnant women are encouraged to satisfy their food cravings, out of fear that their unborn child will bear a representational birth mark (Maltese: xewqa, literally "desire" or "craving"). Maltese and Sicilian women also share certain traditions that are believed to predict the sex of an unborn child.

Traditionally, Maltese newborns were baptised as promptly as possible. Traditional Maltese delicacies served at a baptismal feast include biskuttini tal-magħmudija (almond macaroons), it-torta tal-marmorata (a spicy, heart-shaped tart of chocolate-flavoured almond paste), and a liqueur known as rożolin, made with rose petals, violets, and almonds.

On a child's first birthday, in a tradition that still survives today, Maltese parents would organise a game known as il-quċċija, where a variety of symbolic objects would be randomly placed around the seated child. These may include a hard-boiled egg, a Bible, crucifix or rosary beads, a book, and so on. Whichever object the child shows the most interest in is said to reveal the child's path and fortunes in adulthood.

Traditional Maltese weddings featured the bridal party walking in procession beneath an ornate canopy, from the home of the bride's family to the parish church, with singers trailing behind (il-ġilwa). New wives would wear the għonnella, a traditional item of Maltese clothing. Today's couples are married in churches or chapels in the village or town of their choice, usually followed by a lavish wedding reception. Occasionally, couples will try to incorporate elements of the traditional Maltese wedding in their celebration. A resurgent interest in the traditional wedding was evident in May 2007, when thousands of Maltese and tourists attended a traditional Maltese wedding in the style of the 16th century, in Żurrieq.

Festivals and events

The statue of St. George at the festa of Victoria, Gozo

Local festivals, similar to those in Southern Italy, are commonplace in Malta and Gozo, celebrating weddings, christenings and, most prominently, saints' days. On saints' days, in the morning, the festa reaches its apex with a High Mass featuring a sermon on the life and achievements of the patron saint. In the evening, a statue of the religious patron is taken around the local streets in solemn procession, with the faithful following in prayer. The atmosphere of religious devotion is preceded by several days of celebration and revelry: band marches, fireworks, and late-night parties. The largest festa is possibly that of the Assumption of Mary, which is celebrated in 8 parishes on the 15 August and in 2 other parishes the following Sunday.

The statue of Santa Marija at the festa of Mġarr, Malta

Carnival (Maltese: il-karnival ta' Malta) has had an important place on the cultural calendar after Grand Master It is held during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, and typically includes masked balls, fancy dress and grotesque mask competitions, lavish late-night parties, a colourful, ticker-tape parade of allegorical floats presided over by King Carnival (Maltese: ir-Re tal-Karnival), marching bands and costumed revellers.

Holy Week (Maltese: il-Ġimgħa Mqaddsa) starts on Palm Sunday (Ħadd il-Palm) and ends on Easter Sunday (Ħadd il-Għid).

Mnarja, or l-Imnarja (pronounced lim-nar-ya) is one of the most important dates on the Maltese cultural calendar. Officially, it is a national festival dedicated to the feast of Saints Peter and Paul. Its roots can be traced back to the pagan Roman feast of Luminaria (literally, "the illumination"), when torches and bonfires lit up the early summer night of 29 June. The festivities still commence today with the reading of the "bandu", an official governmental announcement, which has been read on this day in Malta since the 16th century. It is said that under the Knights, this was the one day in the year when the Maltese were allowed to hunt and eat wild rabbit, which was otherwise reserved for the hunting pleasures of the Knights. The close connection between Mnarja and rabbit stew (Maltese: "fenkata") remains strong today.

Holy Week procession in Żebbuġ

Isle of MTV is a one-day music festival produced and broadcast on an annual basis by MTV. The festival has been arranged annually in Malta since 2007, with major pop artists performing each year. 2012 saw the performances of worldwide acclaimed artists Flo Rida, Nelly Furtado and Will.i.am. Over 50,000 people attended, which marked the biggest attendance so far.

The Malta International Fireworks Festival has been arranged annually in the Grand Harbour of Valletta since 2003.

Media

Further information: List of newspapers in Malta, List of radio stations in Malta, and Television in Malta

The most widely read and financially the strongest newspapers are published by Allied Newspapers Ltd., mainly The Times of Malta (27 percent) and its Sunday edition The Sunday Times of Malta (51.6 percent). Due to bilingualism half of the newspapers are published in English and the other half in Maltese. The Sunday newspaper It-Torċa ("The Torch") published by a subsidiary of the General Workers' Union, is the widest Maltese language paper. Its sister paper, L-Orizzont ("The Horizon"), is the Maltese daily with the biggest circulation. There is a high number of daily or weekly newspapers—one for every 28,000 people. Advertising, sales, and subsidies are the three main methods of financing.

There are nine terrestrial television channels in Malta: TVM, TVMNews+, Parliament TV, One, NET Television, Smash Television, F Living, TVMSport+ and Xejk. The state and political parties subsidise most of the funding of these channels. TVM, TVMNews+, and Parliament TV are operated by Public Broadcasting Services, the national broadcaster, and members of the EBU. Media.link Communications Ltd., the owner of NET Television, and One Productions Ltd., the owner of One, are affiliated with the Nationalist and Labour parties, respectively. The rest are privately owned. The Malta Broadcasting Authority has authority to supervise all local broadcasting stations and ensures their compliance with legal and licence obligations as well as the preservation of due impartiality.

The Malta Communications Authority reported that there were 147,896 pay TV subscriptions active at the end of 2012. For reference the 2011 census counts 139,583 households in Malta. Satellite reception is available to receive other European television networks.

Sport

Main article: Sport in Malta

Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Malta. Other popular sports include boċċi, horse racing, gostra, regatta, water polo, clay pigeon shooting, and motorsports.

In 2018 Malta hosted its first Esports tournament, 'Supernova CS:GO Malta', a Counter-Strike: Global Offensive tournament. Also since 2018, Malta has become the primary location for hosting the ESL Pro League.

See also

Notes

  1. 2021 census. Chapter 4: Racial origin

References

Citations

  1. "Gazzetta tal-Gvern ta' Malta" (PDF) (in Maltese). 3 September 2019. Archived (PDF) from the original on 19 September 2020. Retrieved 22 January 2021.
  2. "Language - VisitMalta". VisitMalta. Archived from the original on 1 October 2023. Retrieved 19 January 2024.
  3. "Maltese sign language to be recognised as an official language of Malta". The Malta Independent. Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 11 June 2018.
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Sources

Attribution

  • "Malta". MSN Encarta. Archived from the original on 28 October 2009. Retrieved 1 November 2005.

Bibliography

Further reading

  • Hastings, Max (2021). Operation Pedestal: The Fleet that Battled to Malta, 1942. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 9780008364960

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