Malta is a country consisting of the inhabited islands of Malta, Gozo, Comino, Manoel Island and the uninhabited islands of Cominotto, Fungus Rock, Filfla and the Saint Paul’s Islands. The location in the Mediterranean Sea between the European Mediterranean countries and North Africa has ensured that the culture and architecture has influences from the various surrounding countries. Especially in the capital Valletta you clearly see Moorish influences combined with Spanish and Italian style elements. Thanks to the pleasant Mediterranean climate, the islands of Malta and Gozo are frequently visited by tourists from all over Europe. Malta is especially popular among the British, which is because Malta used to be a British colony. Besides Maltese, English is still an official language in Malta. Check topmbadirectory for how to get to Malta.
Top 10 sights of Malta
#1. Valletta
The historic capital Valletta is without a doubt one of the highlights of the island of Malta. The streets of Valletta are definitely worth a walk of at least half a day. One museum you can visit is the National Museum of Fine Arts. This impressive museum, which is housed in a rococo building dating from the sixteenth century, displays a large art collection to the visiting public. Religious subjects form a large part of the collection. The paintings by the baroque master Mattia Preti are beautiful. Valletta is also home to the Grandmaster’s Palace, referred to in English as Grandmaster’s Palace and known in Malta as simply ‘The Palace’. Dating from the year 1571, the palace has two courtyards, the Neptunushof and the Prince Alfredhof. The inside of the palace is decorated with numerous frescoes and paintings. Check simplyyellowpages for mass media and culture of Malta.
#2. Mdina
The town of Mdina is located centrally on the island of Malta. This completely walled place consists mainly of buildings that date back to the Middle Ages and the Baroque. The town, which has less than five hundred inhabitants, is virtually car-free, which enhances the authentic atmosphere. The best way to explore Mdina is therefore by means of a walk, which takes you past the various churches, monasteries, houses and palaces. Rabat, which is adjacent to Mdina, is a lot bigger (about fourteen thousand inhabitants), but almost as beautiful in some places.
#3. Blue Lagoon
Between the islands of Malta and Gozo lies the blue lagoon, which has simply been given the name Blue Lagoon. A day trip to this breathtaking lagoon is one of Malta’s top excursions. In the summer months it is therefore very busy with boats in the Blue Lagoon.
#4. Megalithic temples (including Hagar Qim and Mnajdra)
Malta has a number of megalithic temples, such as those of Ggantija on the island of Gozo and Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra on the island of Malta. These temple complexes are typical of the Maltese temples of the Neolithic age.
#5. Palazzo Parisio
In the village of Naxxar, the villa Palazzo Parisio has been transformed into a beautiful palace with equally beautiful gardens. This private villa has been completely open to the public for several decades. Several leading websites call the overwhelming interior the most beautiful that Malta has to offer.
#6. Marsaxlokk
This traditional fishing village is referred to by many travel guides as one of the most picturesque places in Malta. For photographers, the traditional fishing boats (called ‘luzzu’) are a source of inspiration. A less romantic part of the otherwise beautiful sea view is formed by the emphatically present power station. Fish lovers can indulge themselves in the many fish restaurants in Marsaxlokk.
#7. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay
Malta does not have as many beaches as other Mediterranean countries. At most hotels, the bathing pleasure is limited to swimming pools. In the northwest there are three beaches that are worth a visit: Golden Bay, Gnejna Bay and, as a highlight, the small sandy beach Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. Because you have to make a walk of about six to ten minutes, partly via a steep staircase, to reach this beach it is relatively quiet.
#8. Gozo
The island of Gozo offers what the island of Malta hardly has to offer: peace, space and idyllic villages. If you stay in Malta, it is highly recommended to make a ferry crossing, especially if you enjoy walking.
#9. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
The most beautiful temple in Malta is the Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni. Divided over three levels, this subterranean space forms a bizarre complex of corridors, niches, rooms and halls. To visit this top attraction in Malta you have to book in advance, because to protect the complex, only a hundred visitors are allowed per day. Those who are lucky enough to be able to visit the Hypogeum can leave their camera at home, because photography is strictly prohibited here.
#10. St.
John’s Co-Cathedral Known as St. John’s Co-Cathedral in English, this 16th-century cathedral in Valetta is one of Malta’s major tourist attractions. The cathedral shows a great contrast between the exterior and the interior. As understated as the outside is, the inside of the building is just as overwhelming. In the cathedral you will find the famous painting ‘The Beheading of John the Baptist’ by Caravaggio.
