Get all your Malta Facts here ... |
| |
We recommend that you browse through the various site sections to get a more detailed look on the many attractions you will find on the islands, such as the impressive Megalithic temples, our rich history and the fantastic museums in Malta.
Interesting Facts about Malta
LocationThe Maltese Archipelago consists of Malta (the main island), Gozo, Comino and the uninhabited islet of Filfla. The islands are located right at the centre of the Mediterranean sea, south of Sicily.
How big is Malta?
Just 316 sq km
Population
401,880 (2007 estimate). Although this number may look small, due to its tiny size, the island of Malta is quite densely populated.
Capital
Valletta is the capital of Malta.
A city built by gentlemen for gentlemen. Valletta was built by the Knights of Malta and is perhaps Malta’s greatest treasure. Impressive fortifications surround the city to this day. Choc-a-bloc with intriguing narrow streets, churches, palaces, museums, restaurants and baroque buildings, you will be amazed at the countless fantastic sights that you will discover while casually walking around in Valletta.
It is for good reason that this magnificent city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has played a crucial role in the long and illustrious Malta history.
Landscape
Low hills with terraced fields all across the islands. There are no mountains or rivers. Coastline consists mainly of harbours, bays, cliffs, sandy and rocky beaches.
Flag
The flag of Malta is a simple red and white flag with the George Cross in the top left hand corner. For more information and curious facts about Malta and its flag, visit our Maltese Flag section.
Government
Republic.
Head of State
President George Abela
Head of Government
Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi
Language
Maltese and English are the official languages. Italian is also widely spoken. If you'd like to learn a few Maltese phrases to use during your Malta holidays, then go to our Learn Maltese page.
Religion
91% Roman Catholic.
There are over 350 churches on the Maltese islands. Many were built in the seventeenth century, making them sights to behold even for non-believers. With their bell towers and domes, the churches are an integral part of the Maltese skyline.
Electricity
240 volts AC, 50Hz.
More useful and fun facts about Malta ...
CurrencyEuro.
In 2008, the Euro became the Malta currency , following the island's accession in the E.U. in 2004.
Banks in Malta
There are many banks in Malta and Gozo. Many of the larger banks have various branches scattered all across the Maltese Islands.
For a full list of banks in Malta and Gozo, visit our Malta Banks page for their contact details as well as more information on banking in Malta.
Malta Newspapers
Even though the Maltese Islands are tiny, major worldwide newspapers are still sold on the islands. The most common international newspapers that you'll find are British, French and Italian newspapers.
There are also a host of Maltese newspapers which are published daily and on Sunday in Maltese and also in English.
For a full list of local newspapers, visit our Malta Newspapers page for more details.
Malta TV Channels
Interested to know what type of TV channels air on the Maltese Islands?
Have a look at our Malta TV Channels page for more information on the main Maltese television stations, as well as links where you can watch your favourite Malta channel online live!
Malta Radio Stations
There are many Maltese radio stations that you can choose to listen to while on vacation in Malta. All of them have their own websites, with some offering the opportunity for you to listen to the station online.
Visit our Malta Radio Stations page for a list of the most popular Maltese radio stations.
Public Holidays – 2009
1st January - New Year's Day
10th February - Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck
19th March - Feast of St. Joseph
31st March* - Freedom Day
10th April - Good Friday
1st May - Workers' Day
7th June* - Sette Giugno 29th June - Feast of St. Peter and St. Paul
15th August - Feast of the Assumption
8th September* - Feast of Our Lady of Victories
21st September* - Independence Day
8th December - Feast of the Immaculate Conception
13th December* - Republic Day
After having achieved its independence in 1964, Malta at first kept Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state. However, on the 13th of December 1974 which is known locally as Jum ir-Repubblika (meaning Republic Day) Malta became a republic with a Maltese president as head of state.
25th December - Christmas Day
Perhaps one of the most curious facts about Malta is the fact that the Maltese islands do not have only ONE national holiday but FIVE! Dates marked with an * are the national holidays.
Leave it to the Maltese to be unique and have THAT many national holidays! :)
Embassies and Consulates
Useful information and contact details of the main foreign embassies in Malta and Maltese embassies abroad can be found in our Malta Tourist Information page here.
Malta Travel Visas
If you'd like to check whether you require a visa to travel to Malta, go to our Visa Requirements for Malta page for more information on travel visas, applications forms, etc.
Maltese National Symbols
The two main symbols that are synonymous with Malta and its people are the Maltese cross and the Maltese boat. The Maltese cross was used by the Knights of Malta.
For more information on the Maltese boat, visit our Maltese Luzzu page.
National Dog of Malta
The beautiful and elegant Pharaoh Hound Dog is Malta's National Dog. In Maltese, the breed is called Kelb tal-Fenek.
For more information, on this sleek, agile and friendly dog breed, go to our Pharaoh Hound Dog: Kelb tal-Fenek page.
We hope that you've enjoyed reading this Interesting Facts about Malta page. If you'd like to find out some surprising facts about Malta, have a look at our Wow! Facts About Malta page too.
Hope to see you in Malta soon! :)
Curious about how much a typical hotel in Malta or Gozo would cost you? Click here to find out.
Want to buy a Malta Travel Guide?
Why not go for the best! The Lonely Planet's Guide to Malta & Gozo is a thoroughly detailed book that leaves no stone unturned as regards to "hidden" gems of the Maltese islands, best dining spots, cute local traditions, curious facts about Malta and much more.
AND being a Lonely Planet guide it's always incredibly affordable!
Get this priceless travel guide here ...
