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| Malta Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Maltese boat Maltese boat Svetlana Tikhonova The Maltese archipelago consists of three islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino. Malta, the largest island, is 237 sq. kms in area; Gozo is 68 sq. kms and Comino, 2 sq. kms. The population numbers circa 400,000. Of these, 28,000 live in Gozo. Comino is only inhabited by a few farmers. Because of their strategic position, Malta and Gozo have been inhabited for the past 7,000 years. The two islands have a long and varied prehistoric period: Neolithic, Copper and Bronze age civilisations lasted more than 4,000 years; one can still admire vestiges of those remote times in form of impressive stone temples, a unique hypogeum and remains of skilful handicrafts. The first known people to settle in Malta were the Phoenicians, who reached these shores on their trading ventures in the 9th century BC. They were succeeded by their Punic kinsmen, the Carthaginians, who were eventually conquered by the Romans in the 3rd century BC. The Romans governed these islands until the division of the Roman Empire in the 4th century AD. Arabs from North Africa occupied the Islands from the 9th to the 13th century and when the last Arab rulers were driven out in the year 1249, they left behind them notable imprints of their culture on the language of the Maltese people. After the Norman overlords, Swabian and Angevin dynasties ruled for brief periods and at the beginning of the 14th century, the Islands fell under Aragonese domination. In 1530, the King of Spain, Emperor Charles V, granted the Islands on fief to the international Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. The Knights administered the Islands for 268 years until 1798, when Napoleon Bonaparte drove them from these shores and occupied the country in the name of the French Republic. Following a brief occupation the French were forced to surrender after two years of a land and sea blockade by combined British and Maltese forces, and in 1800, Malta became a part of the British Empire. In 1964, Malta attained its Independence. It remained as a realm of Queen Elizabeth II represented by a Governor General until ten years later. In 1974, it was declared a Republic within the Commonwealth with a President as head of state. Until the 1960s, the Maltese economy depended mostly on the British services and the Naval Dockyard. After independence, industry and tourism advanced at a fast pace, and at present Malta and Gozo have established a good industrial base and flourishing tourist enterprises. On the 1st of May 2004, Malta was one of the 10 countries which joined the European Union. The people speak their own tongue - Maltese, a language of Semitic origin. Through the ages, many foreign words, particularly Italian, became part of the language, and Maltese is the only Semitic language written in Latin characters. English is one of two official languages and is widely spoken in Malta and Gozo. The official religion is that of the Roman Catholic Church, and the majority are regular church-goers. There are no other denominations of substantial size among the Maltese, but churches of other denominations are also to be found, for religious needs. _________Sights Edit This Hagar Qim Temples, Malta Hagar Qim Temples, Malta Svetlana Tikhonova Contributors October 12, 2006 new by svetico [Add Sight] Hagar Qim Temples Edit This Hagar Qim Temples, Malta Hagar Qim Temples, Malta photo by: Svetlana Tikhonova The prehistoric temple complex Hagar Qim was discovered in 1839. It dates from about 3,800 BC, and it is the oldest known man-made structures in the world. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Fifla and lies some 2 km south-west of the village of Qrendi. Just 500 m away from Hagar Qim, further towards the cliff face, lies another remarkable temple site, Mnajdra set in a hollow above the Southern cliffs. The surrounding area, which is typical of more.. type: Landmarks World66 rating: [rate it] openingHours: Monday to Sunday: 9.00-17.00 url: www.heritagemalta.org ________History Edit This Mnajdra Temple Mnajdra Temple Malta has a long history that includes Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines to Islamic Saracens and Norman kings of Sicily. It also has quite a few monuments dating back to those periods. ________Getting Around Edit This Maltese bus Maltese bus Svetlana Tikhonova Please find practical information on transport below. Contributors August 09, 2006 change by reen [Add Local transport mode] By bus Edit This Maltese bus Maltese bus photo by: Svetlana Tikhonova The site of the Public Transport Association, or as it is known in Maltese: Assocjazzjoni Trasport Pubbliku ATP , is very useful for finding bus routes, bus fares and timetables. All busses have a relegious icon at the front to which passengers cross themselves before taking a seat. The reasons why will become apparent should you decide to catch the bus! World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.atp.com.mt ________Getting There Edit This Malta is a small island, which means you’re never far away from the sea. While many people opt for the nearest sea-side spots on the rocks when the sun comes out, most people head to the North of the island where there’s plenty of choice when it comes to sandy beaches. Most Maltese beaches can be rather busy in summer, particularly during weekends. For a more secluded swim it’s essential to head off the beaten path and get to the beaches that are not (easily) accessible by car. There aren’t an awful lot of options but it is possible to find a peaceful spot, especially if you don’t mind a bit of a hike to get there. Set off across the rocks up from Ghadira Bay or alternatively, wander down the hills behind Selmun Palace (close to Mellieha) and arrive at a small, quiet beach that by its very inaccessibility remains quite secluded, though there are plenty of boats that moor nearby. Walk along the paths that lead behind Ghajn Tuffieha and arrive at Malta’s only (unofficial) nudist beach, which lies well hidden behind the main part of the beach. The advice given in this guide should be viewed keeping in mind that swimming is only advisable during the summer season (lasting from May until October). Ghadira Bay Ghadira Bay is by far the most popular - and largest - beach of the Maltese islands, situated nearby the Northern village of Mellieha, forming the inside of the top of the island’s figurative tail. The sea is shallow for a good distance out, which makes this Maltese beach a favourite with families. With sun beds and umbrellas for rent abound here, there is still space on this expansive beach for anyone wishing to bring their own gear. There are plenty of snack bars and small cafes as well as spots to indulge in some water fun - you can hire a pedalo, try parasailing or swim out to a large floating play area. Good fun, if very packed in the heat of summer. Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay These two adjacent bays are situated on the West part of Malta, with nearest village Mgarr, and are reasonably popular. In particular Golden Bay can be busy at times, especially since one of the island’s largest hotels sits on the side of the bay. Ghajn Tuffieha could be described as a bay that has hardly been touched by human hand, with its beautiful scenery, gold coloured sand and clear waters. Being one of the most stunning views in Malta, it’s worth going early in the morning to Ghajn Tuffieha to stand at the top of the hill and appreciate just how beautiful it is with its turquoise seas and backdrop of craggy hills. Access to the beach is via some hundred-plus steps or along hillside paths, which continue out beyond the main part of the beach and offer the chance of a small hike before a swim. As a protected area, this beach has fewer facilities than Golden Bay but those in search of water sports can still find plenty to keep them amused. Gnejna Gnejna is a beautiful bay on the Western part of Malta, located nearby the town of Mgarr in one of the most serene parts of the Maltese islands. A sandy beach and shallow waters offer a family-friendly location for bathers and probably the biggest benefit of Gnejna is that it’s usually mostly locals who bathe. So if you prefer avoiding busy beaches this is probably your best bet, of the beaches mentioned here. There are no direct routes to Gnejna, but the nearest stop is in Mgarr, which is literally a stone’s throw away, meaning a 5 min. walk. It’s very easy to find when in Mgarr, with plenty of signs showing you the way. Paradise Bay Just a few minutes drive away from Ghadira Bay is Paradise Bay, which is one of the most picturesque beaches on the island. Smaller than Ghadira, it’s popular with a younger crowd, particularly at the weekend beach parties. Also a good place for snorkelling. Paradise Bay is nestled in a more secluded place than most other bays, being situated in the most Northern part of Malta, close to Cirkewwa (where ferries to Gozo berth). The site offers a magnificent view, with rock formations on both sides and its lovely sandy beach. This is an ideal place to go for a relaxing swim on weekdays and very family-friendly. Plenty of facilities are available, despite its isolated location and this bay is also very easy to reach. For more information on Malta and Malta's beaches visit http://www.guidetomalta.net/ _________Economy Edit This Economy—overview: Significant resources are limestone a favorable geographic location and a productive labor force. Malta produces only about 20% of its food needs has limited freshwater supplies and has no domestic energy sources. The economy is dependent on foreign trade manufacturing (especially electronics and textiles) and tourism; the state-owned Malta drydocks employs about 3 800 people. In 1996 approximately 1 million tourists visited the island. Per capita GDP of $12 900 places Malta in the range of the less affluent EU countries. The island joined the European Union (E.U.) in 2004. GDP: purchasing power parity—$4.9 billion (1997 est.) GDP—real growth rate: 2.8% (1997 est.) GDP—per capita: purchasing power parity—$12 900 (1997 est.) GDP—composition by sector: agriculture: 5% industry: 34% services: 61% (1995 est.) Inflation rate—consumer price index: 2.3% (1996) Labor force: total: 148 085 (September 1996) by occupation: public services 34% other services 32% manufacturing and construction 22% agriculture 2% (1996) Unemployment rate: 3.7% (September 1996) Budget: revenues: $1.3 billion expenditures: $1.5 billion including capital expenditures of $219 million (1997 est.) Industries: tourism; electronics ship building and repair construction; food and beverages textiles footwear clothing tobacco Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity—capacity: 250 000 kW (1994) Electricity—production: 1.45 billion kWh (1995) Electricity—consumption per capita: 3 923 kWh (1995) Agriculture—products: potatoes cauliflower grapes wheat barley tomatoes citrus cut flowers green peppers; pork milk poultry eggs Exports: total value: $1.7 billion (f.o.b. 1996) commodities: machinery and transport equipment clothing and footware printed matter partners: Italy 32% Germany 16% UK 8% Imports: total value: $2.8 billion (c.i.f. 1996) commodities: food petroleum machinery and semimanufactured goods partners: Italy 27% Germany 14% UK 13% US 9% Debt—external: $134 million (1996) Economic aid: recipient: ODA $NA Currency: 1 Maltese lira (LM) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Maltese liri (LM) per US$1—0.3960 (January 1998) 0.3857 (1997) 0.3604 (1996) 0.3529 (1995) 0.3776 (1994) 0.3821 (1993) Fiscal year: 1 April—31 March _____________People Edit This Malta 'Gardens Malta 'Gardens M.J.R. de Haan Population (2006 est.): 400,214 (growth rate: 0.4%); birth rate: 10.2/1000; infant mortality rate: 3.9/1000; life expectancy: 79.0; density per sq mi: 3,280 Age structure: 0-14 years: 21% (male 40 655; female 38 425) 15-64 years: 68% (male 128 958; female 127 391) 65 years and over: 11% (male 18 629; female 25 505) (July 1998 est.) Population growth rate: 0.58% (1998 est.) Birth rate: 11.73 births/1 000 population (1998 est.) Net migration rate: 1.45 migrant(s)/1 000 population (1998 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.73 male(s)/female (1998 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7.57 deaths/1 000 live births (1998 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.6 years male: 75.3 years female: 80.05 years (1998 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.73 children born/woman (1998 est.) Nationality: noun: Maltese (singular and plural) adjective: Maltese Ethnic groups: Maltese (descendants of ancient Carthaginians and Phoenicians with strong elements of Italian and other Mediterranean stock) Religions: Roman Catholic 98% Languages: Maltese (official) English (official) Literacy: definition: age 10 and over can read and write total population: 88% male: 88% female: 88% (1985) :::::::::Birzebbugia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see lobur lobur jien Birzebbugia, is a small village, found at the south end of the Maltese island, enclosed by much country side, and a small bay called "Pretty Bay". Despite it's name, this bay is not pretty at all, as Malta's freeport is located in it. The town itself is not much either, I'd spend my holiday somewhere else. Locals are friendly and cheerful, there are many clubs and night life for youngsters, and a great time in the summer sun. With also historical background and places. :::::::Comino Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i_1 For anyone who finds Gozo's tranquil paradise still a little too hectic, there is nearby Comino, an island only 2 sq. km in area, with one hotel. The island is a haven for anyone interested in water sports with ample room for everyone, whether a professional scuba diver looking for excitement in the depths or a child learning to use a snorkel in safety. Of spectacular beauty is the Blue Lagoon with its turquoise waters surrounded by a sun drenched coastline. ****Cottonera or Three Cities Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see View of Harbour from Belvedere View of Harbour from Belvedere J.Darm The three harbour towns, enclosed as they are within the so-called Cottonera Lines, share the same history as that of Valletta, having all served as Malta's principal maritime towns for the last four hundred years. These towns are Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. They are often referred as "Three Cities" and are very popular place for walking. Three Cities are situated on two promontories opposite Valletta. ::::::Cospicua (or Bormla) Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Bormla, also known as Citta' Cospicua, is the oldest inhabited of the three towns. The town nestles behind the No 1 Dock built in 1842 - 1848, in Porto delle Galere, the older name for Dockyard Creek. The dockyard was first started by the Phoenicians and later developed with the colonizers needs. The knights and later the British turned it into their strategic and Mediterranean base for ship repair. The town plans were laid out in 1717 on a grid pattern. Though some of the older streets survive intact from remote times. The town boasts of its magnificent doric church of the Immaculate Conception a museum of artistry and craftsmanship that lived in the town for centuries. Other attractions in the town are the 17th century fortifications of the Knights, British Fort Verdala, Bir Mula Heritage - a social history museum located in a palazzino of the St. Margerita hill, and various other architectural jewels. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: Bir Mula Heritage museum :::::::::::Vittoriosa Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Vittoriosa, known also as Birgu (from the word Borgo meaning suburb) is one of the two promontories extending towards Valletta, from across the harbour's southern side. Vittoriosa is the second oldest (after Mdina) town in Malta. ::::::::::Dingli Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Dingli Church Dingli Church What a superb place to live, quite frankly a town of LEGENDS! From Had-Dingli, located in the middle of the south-western cliffs, you can enjoy the cliffs (which are spectacular at sunset). There is an ancient turret here, and a radar station. :::::::Gozo Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo Back when Gozo was called Ogygia the Greek hero Ulysses spent seven years on the island. Today we think four or five nights is just about right on the Isle of Calypso. Reached by car ferry from Valletta or Cirkewwa on Malta Gozo has rugged sandy beaches and rolling hills. The largest city is Victoria (locally called Rabat). Visit the Gozo Museum (historical displays) the Gozo Crafts Centre (good selection of local handicrafts) and northeast of town the Citadel/Gran Castello. The citadel worth a visit primarily for its unparalleled views consists of a restored Norman house cathedral and bastions. Other island attractions include Gozo Heritage a series of life-size dioramas depicting the island’s past; pretty Xlendi Bay (on the western coast); and Ramla Bay the reputed Calypso Cave (near red-sand Ramla Bay). The Inland Sea reached by a tunnel is wonderful for swimming—it’s warmer than the open sea. Near Xaghra are a number of places to see: two Ggantija Temples (1 000 years older than the Pyramids) and the Alabaster Caves (stalactite and stalagmite caves). :::::::::Marsaxlokk Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Luzzu Luzzu Steven R. Loomis In Maltese, "Marsa" means harbor, and "Xlokk" (shlock) means south-east. This south-east harbor is a good place for seafood, or just to enjoy the brightly colored Luzzu or traditional boats. The Luzzu (lute-sue) are distinctive with their Phoenician "eyes" on the front. There is a local bazar there selling touristic and traditional things like souvenirs ::::::::Mdina Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see mdina's cathedral mdina's cathedral c ebejer 'M’dina, isolated on three sides by a sheer drop and on the fourth by a ditch…' '…in the thick-walled little city, with its five hundred square yards of quiet passages, of high walls and crested gateways….' :::::::::Mellieha Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see A town in the north-western part of the island. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: www.mellieha.com ::::::::Naxxar Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Naxxar Church Naxxar Church Brian Hogan The Naxxar Locality is spread over an area of eleven kilometres squared and has a population of over eleven thousand persons. The whole locality comprises the Naxxar centre, Sghajtar area, Santa Marija tax-Xaghra, San Pawl tat-Targa, Birguma, Maghtab, Salina, Bahar ic-Caghaq and part of Madliena. Palazzo Parisio was built by Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna. Before, this site was occupied by a summer residence by the Jesuit Community. After buying the property in 1898, Marquis Scicluna altered it into its present state, purchased more land at the back and converted it into a big garden. All this was done between 1898 and 1906. All the artistic designs were done by Italian artists who were brought to Malta on purpose. The paintings on the ceiling are the works of the Italian artist Filippo Venuti. Marquis Scicluna used this palazzo as his private residence for only a short period, till 1907. After the death of the Marquis, the Palazzo stopped being used as a private residence and was changed into a tourist attraction and as a wedding hall. In 1962, Marquis John Scicluna let a significant part of the gardens of the Palazzo to the International Trade Fair Corporation, and which continues to be used by the same Corporated to the present day. Website : www.palazzoparisio.com The Naxxar Church was made a Parish by Bishop De Mello in 1436 and the villages of Mosta and Gharghur were subject to it. In fact Bishop De Mello had listed it as one of the ten parishes of Malta and it was the first parish dedicated to Our Lady after that of the old Cathedral. In 1575, the matrix of Naxxar had under its control a total of 36 churches – 14 in Naxxar, 5 in Gharghur, 12 in Mosta and 5 in the neighbourhood of these villages. The church, as we know it today, was built between 1616 and 1630 when there were 1200 inhabitants in Naxxar and it was felt that a larger church was needed. The design was made by the architect Tommaso Dingli, one of the best architects of the time, whilst the Parish Priest was Father Gakbu Pace. The choir and the area around it was redesigned in 1691 on the design of Lorenzo Gafa', the same architect who had designed Mdina Cathedral. The Parish Church was solemnly consegrated by Bishop Alpheran on the 11th December 1732. The church has a choir, two transepts and a nave and is 130 feet long. The width of the transept is 94 feet and the nave 30 feet. The large bell was made by the founder Toni Tanti in 1840 and cost £225. The façade of the church has two clocks, one showing the actual time whilst the other is a painting and shows the time as a quarter to eleven (11.45). The main painting shows the Birth of Our Lady which is attributed to the school of Mattia Preti (1613-1699) whilst at the side there are two paintings by Stefano Erardi (1650-1733) which show the Flight to Egypt and the Adoration of the Magi. Other paintings which show the Madonna and Child, St Cajetan, St Aloysius Gonzaga, Our Saviour and Our Lady of Sorrows are the work of the Maltese painter Frangisku Zahra (1680-1765). In the sacristy hangs the antique painting showing Our Lady of the Rosary which was painted on wood by Gio Maria Abela in 1595. The main door, which is made of bronze, is dated 1913 and is the work of Pio Cellini. The door is made up of four main panels depicting the coat of arms of Our Lady, Patroness of Naxxar; the village coat of arms; the coat of arms of Pope St Pius X and the coat of arms of the family Zammit who were the benefactors of this door. In 1952 this door was dismantled, and renovated and cleaned by the blacksmith Mastru Lucens Agius. The expenses involved were once more paid for by the same family Zammit. The statue of the Vitorja, which feast is celebrated on the 8th September, was imported from Rome whilst the statues of the Good Friday Procession are the work of a Maltese craftsman. Naxxar was one of the first villages which had the statues of the Passion of Our Lord and in fact it is believed that the procession started being held just after 1750. On the 9th November 1787, the body of the martyr St Vittorio was brought from the cemetry of St Calepodio of Rome and is found in the altar in the choir. ::::::::::Sliema Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see heavy wind ,boulevard,Sliema heavy wind ,boulevard,Sliema M.J.R. de Haan Sliema is a busy town located on a peninsula with views of Valletta and Floriana on one side and the open sea on the other. It is located fairly centrally on the Eastern side of Malta. It is a great place to shop, enjoy the cafe culture and eat out. There are many hotels and apartments to let for those who like to be self-catering. It is also the place to catch the ferry to Valletta, buses to many places and also boat trips round the harbours and round the island. It is within walking distance of St Julians and Paceville where you find the best nightlife of the island, more restaurants and other places of entertainment. You will find examples of some of the traditional Maltese townhouses and terraced houses if you take a stroll through the town. Many of these are unfortunately being redeveloped as apartments, but there are areas which are still unspoilt and worthy of a visit. Sliema is a perfect place from which to explore St Julians, the Marina in Msida and to take a bus trip to Valletta. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: original material _________Beaches Edit This the beach in front of plaza&plaza recengy hotel the beach in front of plaza&plaza recengy hotel vanilja There aren't many sand beaches in Malta. If you're staying in Sliema there's a large rock beach located in the point of the cape of Sliema. A little and quiet sand beach can be found in front of the hotel called Plaza & Plaza Recengy, which is located just across the street off the coast boulevard. The sand in the beach is original Maltese sand, unlike the one in St. George's beach in St. Julians. This beach is in favor of local people, especially youth. There are great opportunities for snorkelers like in all beaches of Malta. ::::::::::St Julian Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see sliema sliema vanilja St. Julian is about one thing: having a good time. During day time there is no particuclar reason to come here - although there are few nice place to have lunch or just have a drink - but at night, all of Malta flocks tio the trendy clubs of St Julians. St. Julian is actually a part of the the city of Valletta (as well as Sliema). ::::::::::::St. Paul's Bay Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see St. Pauls Bay from near Xemxija St. Pauls Bay from near Xemxija St. Paul's Bay area which includes Bugibba, Qawra and Xemxija is located on the northwest coast of the island. The area is very pretty with a new man-made beach installed at Qawra and with some lovely views across the bay. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and other places to go for good nightlife but is also peaceful in the day to relax in the sun. This area was once the main holiday resort for the island but has been neglected financially for some years. However, this is being addressed in Parliament and financial support has finally started to flow through. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: Mam :::::::::Tarxien Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Tarxien is a very old village in the south-eastern part of Malta which is very remowned for its heritage. The most famous of all are the Neolithic Temples that lie in the heart of the village. Recently, this heritage jewel has been restored as it is one of the oldest temples in the whole world, dating back much before Stonehenge. In the temples, one can still see various dolmens and menhirs as well as the staute of the godess of fertility or as the locals call it "Il-Mara il-Hoxna" (meaning "The Fat Woman" obviously due to the fact that in older times obesity was a symbol of fertility). In this wonderful village one may see other great architectural jewels like the Church dedicated to the Resurrection of Christ (or "Knisja ta' l-Erwieh" in Maltese) right next to the temples as well as the tradiotional Parish Church further down the road. :::::::Valletta Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo Malta’s capital city called the City of Knights dates from the 16th century. Valletta (pop. 109 000) was one of Europe’s first planned cities with building codes a grid street pattern and garbage and sewage systems. Located on a peninsula Valletta boasts two excellent harbors: Marsamxett Harbour and the Grand Harbour. The fairly compact city can easily be seen in one day although we suggest staying two nights. We like to start by visiting the Upper Barrakka Gardens for a great overview and then follow up by getting a closer view from the harbors (take the inexpensive two-hour cruise). Valletta seems to host a museum in every block of the capital. Some of our favorites are the national museums of fine arts (in an 18th-century palace) and archaeology and the museum adjoining the elaborately decorated St. John’s Co-Cathedral (the church’s marble floors are unforgettable). To better understand the martial history of Valletta visit the 16th-century Grand Masters Palace and Armory and the National War Museum. Go on to the Lascaris War Rooms which were bomb-proof headquarters for the British air force during World War II. When you tire of museums spend time visiting shops strolling the city’s ramparts or perusing the Malta Government Crafts Centre (where local handicrafts are on display and sale). Just outside town near Floriana is the fascinating Argotti Botanic Gardens—a good cacti collection. Across the Grand Harbour is the Cottonera the generic name for three “suburbs” of Valletta. The three cities Vittoriosa/Birgu Senglea Isle and Cospicua are notable for their medieval homes churches palaces and fortifications. Be sure to visit the Church of St. Lawrence the Maritime Museum Ft. St. Angelo (key defensive point during the Great Siege of Malta) and the Inquisitor’s Palace (tour its courtrooms and—to see some medieval graffiti—its dungeons). The Knights of Malta were segregated by place of origin and assigned to neighborhoods called langues. A number of their auberges (the buildings in which they once lived) can still be seen. These structures are concentrated in an area known as the Collachio. |
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http://www.paesionline.it/europa/malta_la_valletta/hotel_alberghi_la_valletta.asp
*** CASTILLE Hotel VALLETTA CASTILLE SQUARE 356 243677 243677 *** OSBORNE Hotel VALLETTA 50, SOUTH STREET 356 243656 ** BRITISH Hotel VALLETTA 267, ST. URSULA STREET 356 224730 239711 ** CORONATION Hotel VALLETTA 10 M.A. VASSALLI STREET 356 237652 ** CUMBERLAND Hotel VALLETTA 111 ST. JOHN'S STREET 356 237732 247590 ** GRAND HARBOUR Hotel VALLETTA 47, BATTERY STREET 356 246003 242219 |
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GNU Free Documentation License Esso utilizza materiale tratto da http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malta Cronologia: http://it.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Malta&action=history MaltaDa Wikipedia, l'enciclopedia libera.
Immagine di Malta ripresa da un satellite Malta è un'isola, nonché stato europeo situato nel Mediterraneo, nel Canale di Malta, tra la Sicilia e la Libia.
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GeografiaL'arcipelago maltese si trova a 90 km circa a sud della Sicilia, all'interno della regione fisica italiana, ed è composto da tre isole maggiori: e da alcune isole minori: Le coste delle isole sono frastagliate e vi sono numerose baie riparate nelle quali sono situati alcuni porti. Il paesaggio è caratterizzato da basse colline coltivate a terrazze. Il punto più elevato è Ta'Dmejrek sull'isola di Malta, a 253 m s.l.m. Il clima è temperato mediterraneo, con inverni miti e piovosi e estati calde e asciutte. L'isola principale è suddivisa in cinque distretti, mentre Gozo e Comino formano insieme il sesto distretto. Oltre alla capitale La Valletta, le altre località maggiori sono Victoria sull'isola di Gozo, Mdina (l'antica capitale), Sliema e Birżebbuġa (Birzebbugia) sull'isola principale.
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StoriaMalta è abitata dal 5200 a.C. circa: si crede infatti sia esistita una cultura preistorica significativa già un millennio prima delle Piramidi di Giza. I Fenici colonizzarono l'isola solo intorno al 1000 a.C., usandola come avamposto per la loro espansione e i loro commerci nel Mar Mediterraneo. In seguito, nel 736 a.C. venne occupata dai Greci che la chiamarono Melita. L'insediamento paleolitico di Hagar Qim L'isola finì in seguito sotto il controllo di Cartagine, nel 400 a.C., e in seguito sotto il dominio Romano (218 a.C.). L'isola prosperò in questo periodo, durante il quale venne considerata come Municipium. Sull'isola, a testimonianza della vicinanza tra Roma e Malta, rimangono ancora molte rovine di quell'epoca. Nell'anno 60 d.C. l'isola viene visitata da San Paolo, che si dice attraccò in quella che viene ora chiamata St. Paul Bay. Dopo un periodo di dominio Bizantino dal IV secolo al IX secolo e un saccheggio probabilmente da parte dei Vandali l'isola venne conquistata dagli Arabi nel 870 d.C. Gli Arabi, che in generale tollerarono la parte Cristiana della popolazione, introdussero la coltivazione del cedro e del cotone, costruirono un sistema di irrigazione e, in particolare, la lingua araba, che la maggior parte della popolazione adottò come lingua madre. La sua influenza nel maltese moderno è facilmente riscontrabile, così come anche la presenza di lingue di origine latina e dell'alfabeto latino. Il periodo di dominazione Araba fini nel 1090 quando l'isola venne conquistata dai Normanni siciliani. In seguito gli Angioini, gli Hohenstaufen e gli Aragonesi (1287) si succedettero nel dominio dell'isola. La nobiltà Maltese venne istituità in quest'ultimo periodo; circa 32 titoli nobiliari permangono tuttora, il più vecchio dei quali è il Baronato di Djar il Bniet and Buqana. Nel 1530 l'isola venne donata in affitto perenne alla Spagna dai Cavalieri Ospitalieri. Questi cavalieri, un ordine monastico militare conosciuto come Cavalieri di Malta, resistettero all'assedio di Malta nel 1565 da parte dei Turchi, considerati come la maggior potenza militare non Europea. Dopo questo assedio i Cavalieri decisero di fortificare l'isola, in particolare la zona del porto dove venne costruita la città di La Valletta. Questo regno finì quando Malta venne presa da Napoleone che si stava dirigendo verso la campagna d'Egitto nel 1798. Napoleone chiese un porto sicuro per rifornire le sue navi, e subito dopo prese la città di La Valletta. Il Grande Maestro dei Cavalieri Ospitalieri Ferdinand von Hompesch zu Bolheim capitolò e Napoleone si stabilì per pochi giorni sull'isola, saccheggiando i beni dell'Ordine e instaurando un'amministrazione a lui fedele. Infine pertì alla volta dell'Egitto, lasciando una guarnigione sul posto. Gli occupanti francesi erano impopolari, soprattutto per la loro antipatia nei confronti della religione. I Maltesi si ribellarono e costrinsero i francesi a ritirarsi nelle loro fortificazioni; la Gran Bretagna e il Regno di Napoli mandarono munizioni e aiuti ai ribelli, assieme alla Royal Navy che instituì l'embargo dell'isola, facendo sì che nel 1800 i francesi si arrendessero. L'isola divenne così un protettorato inglese. Nel 1814 Malta divenne parte dell'Impero Inglese e venne utilizzata come base di scambio e come quartier generale per la flotta, soprattutto per via della sua vicinanza al Canale di Suez. Nel 1930, per via della vicinanza culturale e geografica all'Italia la Flotta Mediterranea Inglese venne spostata ad Alessandria d'Egitto. Malta giocò un ruolo importante durante la Seconda Guerra Mondiale per via della sua vicinanza all'Asse; per via del loro coraggio Malta venne insignita della George Cross, ora visibile sulla Bandiera maltese. Dopo la guerra e un piccolo periodo di instabilità politica Malta ottenne l'indipendenza dalla Gran Bretagna il 21 settembre 1964. Nella costituzione Malta mantenne la Regina Elisabetta II come propria regina, con un Governatore che manteneva i poteri esecutivi. In seguito, nel 13 dicembre 1974, Malta divenne parte del Commonwealth con il Presidente di Malta come capo dello stato. Dal 1 maggio 2004 fa parte dell'Unione Europea. Il suo ingresso nell'UE venne deciso nel vertice di Copenaghen del 13 dicembre 2002; la decisione fu poi ratificata dal popolo maltese l'8 marzo 2003 con un referendum cui partecipò il 91% degli aventi diritto: i voti favorevoli ad un ingresso nell'Ue furono pari al 53,65% e premiarono la linea europeista portata avanti, nonostante il parere contrario dell'opposizione laburista, dal capo del governo conservatore Edoardo Fenech-Adami. Malta è, in termini di dimensioni, il più piccolo stato dell'Unione Europea.
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Politica
Malta è una repubblica basata sulla democrazia rappresentativa, il cui sistema parlamentare e di amministrazione pubblica è modellato sulla base del sistema Westminster. La Camera dei Deputati unicamerale, conosciuta come il-Kamra tad-Deputati, viene eletta tramite suffragio universale ogni 5 anni, a meno che non venga sciolta precedentemente dal Presidente su consiglio del Primo Ministro. Il partito che conquista la maggioranza forma il gabinetto. La Camera dei Deputati è composta da 65 membri. Secondo la Costituzione maltese il Presidente elegge il Primo Ministro, che è in genere il leader del partito che forma il gabinetto. Il Presidente della Repubblica viene eletto ogni 5 anni dalla Camera dei Deputati. I principali partiti politici sono il Partito Nazionalista (di ispirazione cristiana) e il Partito Laburista (che era d'ispirazione socialista).
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Divisioni amministrative di Malta
Dalla riforma del 1993, Malta è stata suddivisa in 68 "Consigli locali" (in maltese: Kunsilli Lokali). Non ci sono livelli intermedi tra i governi locali e il governo nazionale.
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EconomiaFino al 1800 Malta aveva ben poche attività produttive, fatta eccezione per la coltivazione e lavorazione del cotone e del tabacco e per l'industria navale. I cantieri navali vennero poi utilizzati dagli Inglesi per scopi militari. Durante la guerra l'economia di Malta prosperò particolarmente per via della sua posizione strategica. Nel 1869 l'apertura del Canale di Suez dette una notevole spinta all'economia, per via del gran numero di navi che entravano nei porti. Alla fine del XIX secolo l'economia iniziò però a declinare e verso gli anni 40 cadde in una profonda crisi, per via di grandi navi che non necessitavano di rifornimento. Ai nostri giorni le maggiori risorse di Malta sono il calcare, una posizione geografica favorevole e una forza lavoro molto produttiva. Malta produce circa il 20% del proprio fabbrisogno, ha risorse idriche d'acqua potabile limitate e nessuna fonte di energia domestica. L'economia dipende quindi degli scambi con l'estero, dal settore manifatturiero (in particolare tessile ed elettronico) e dal turismo. Quest'ultimo è aumentato vertiginosamente negli anni e ha portato alla costruzione di numerose strutture turistiche sull'isola. Malta ha recentemente privatizzato alcune società statali e liberalizzato i mercati in modo da prepararsi per l'accesso nella Unione Europea, a cui ha avuto accesso nel 1 maggio 2004. Il Paese dovrebbe adottare l'euro a partire dal 1 gennaio 2008. Sebbene sia ora parte dell'Unione Europea Malta non è ancora membro del trattato Schengen, pur adottandone i regolamenti nell'ottica di farne parte nel 2007.
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Demografia
Secondo gli ultimi rilevamenti (Dicembre 2004) la popolazione maltese alla fine di quell'anno (residenti stranieri inclusi) era di 402668 dei quali 199580 (49.6%) uomini e 203008 (50.4%) donne. La popolazione di origine maltese era di 389769, 193917 (49.6%) uomini e 196752 (50.4%) donne. La densità di popolazione di 1274 per chilometro quadrato è una delle più alte nel mondo. Nello stesso anno ci fu un numero di nascite pari a 888 persone (783 di origine maltese) e un aumento stimato della popolazione di 1913 persone. Sebbene il tasso di nascite tenda a diminuire (9.46 paragonato al 12.44 del 1995) Malta rimane una delle nazioni più "giovani" d'Europa (la fascia 0-14 anni rappresenta il 17.8% della popolazione). In quasi ogni censimento il rapporto uomini/donne è quasi alla pari, con 95 uomini per 100 donne. La lingua nazionale è il Maltese, una lingua semitica con molti punti di contatto con l'italiano. L'alfabeto maltese è basato sull'alfabeto latino, ma utilizza alcune lettere aggiuntive come la ż, ċ, ġ e ħ riscontrabili solo in Maltese. Le lingue ufficiali sono l'Inglese e il Maltese. L'Italiano (ufficiale fino al 1934) e, in misura minore, il Francese sono parlati comunemente e insegnati spesso nelle scuole secondarie.
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ReligioniCattolici 97%, musulmani 2%, non credenti 1%.
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Cultura
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Voci correlate
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Collegamenti esterni
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