Postcard from Malta
Malta is a diverse and sunny island nation in the Mediterranean Sea. The country consists of three islands: Malta, the main island, Gozo, the second smallest island, and Comino, the smallest and least inhabited island. Typical characteristics of the archipelago include fantastic sunshine, open sandy beaches, a bustling entertainment scene, and 7,000 years of fascinating history. Discovered several thousand years ago, the islands have been inhabited by several different peoples and cultures. Throughout the ages, conquerors have left behind knight's castles, cathedrals, temples, churches and medieval architecture. Here, sun-filled days and maritime adventures fuse with European history and culture. And, if you like, MALTA you can visit a new church every day of the year: Malta has a whopping 365! Malta's number one attraction is definitely the capital city, Valletta. It’s also a UNESCO world heritage site with a medieval vibe and many fine old palaces, and is famous for its wooden bay windows and balconies, or “Galleria” as the Maltese like to call them, which are unique to Malta. These can be found in every town and village throughout Malta, but the most beautiful are located in Valletta. Malta’s nightlife blossoms in summer and party-hungry people should check out Paceville and St. Julians, where you will find clubs, lounge bars, restaurants and casinos all lined up next to each other.
Colorful boats in Marsaxlokk, MALTA
LIKE A LOCAL - Visit Marsaxlokk
One of Malta's most colorful places is the small traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk - famous for its superb seafood restaurants and colorful fishing boats. Around 70% of Malta's fishing fleet is based here. Every Sunday there’s a market where you can buy local products and you will find plenty of freshly caught fish and seafood in the harbour. You can also take a ride on one of the ubiquitous little fishing boats called "luzzus". They are painted in bold colors and have staring eyes to ward off evil spirits. Marsaxlokk is a fascinating place and an essential port of call for anyone visiting Malta.
Buildings in Mdina, MALTA, known as “The Silent City”
CULTURE HIT - Mdina, “the Silent City”
A visit to the old Mdina capital is a must during a trip to Malta. Located in the center of the island, the city is also known as "The Silent City". Striking architecture awaits here, where medieval, high castle walls mingle alongside Baroque-style buildings. The winding alleys are lined with small shops, restaurants and cafes, and you can enjoy a panoramic view of Malta from the top of the city walls. Mdina is one of the few remaining fortified Renaissance cities in Europe.
The Blue Grotto along the Malta Coast
TIME OUT - Blue Grotto and the Malta Coast
Malta's coast is full of exciting rock formations. One of these is the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves on the South-eastern coast of Malta that can be reached via boat. On sunny days, the sunlight reflecting on the white, sandy seafloor illuminates the caves in bright blue hues. As well as being a popular tourist destination that attracts more than 100.000 visitors a year, Blue Grotto is also a popular diving, snorkeling and swimming spot, with very clear, clean, deep waters.