Malta is a beautiful and intriguing country with a rich history and culture. Here are a few interesting facts about Malta that you might find fascinating:

  1. Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world, with a population of just over 500,000 people.Out of 236 countries Malta ranks 204th in size and the smallest in the European Union. It is the  world’s 10th  smallest and 4th most densely populated country  (Source: Wikipedia)
  2. The island of Malta is home to some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, including the Megalithic Temples of Malta, which date back to around 3500 BC.
  3. Malta was ruled by the Phoenicians, the Greeks, the Romans, the Arabs, the Normans, the Knights of St. John, the French, and the British before gaining independence in 1964.
  4.  Malta’s capital Valletta, was the first ever planned city in Europe. During the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, the city was sketched out, in 1565. (Source:  https://bit.ly/40KJeaV)

  5. Once Controlled by The Knights of St. John, also known as the Knights Templars, the famous elite warriors were given control of the islands in 1530 by Charles V of Spain. They are best known for successfully defending the island against the Ottomans.

  6. Malta is historically Christian. The Constitution of Malta provides for freedom of religion but establishes Roman Catholicism as the state religion. Freedom House and the World Factbook report that 98 per cent of the Maltese are Roman Catholic, making the nation one of the most Catholic countries in the world.

  7. Malta was Awarded The George Cross.King George VI of England awarded Malta the George Cross for its bravery during the Axis Siege in the Second World War. To this day, the George Cross appears on the national flag

  8. Left Hand Drive in Malta. Malta is one of those countries in the world where people drive on the left side of the road – one of the legacies of former British rule.

  9. Malta is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes, including the famous Blue Lagoon.
  10. The Maltese language is one of the oldest languages in Europe and is a unique blend of Arabic and Italian.

  11. Malta has 3 official languages. They are English, Maltese, and Maltese Sign Language. However, Italian is widely spoken by the Maltese locals.

  12. Malta is home to some of the best diving spots in the world, including the famous Blue Hole and the HMS Maori wreck. There are several sunken World War Two ships, submarines and fighter planes scattered around the coastline of Malta.

  13. The Capital Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to UNESCO ,Valletta is one of the most concentrated historical areas in the world.

  14. Malta is also recognized for its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional dishes like Pan fried rabbit, pastizzi, and timpana while Kinnie ,the national soda, is made from bitter oranges.