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PAGE22.pdf
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23/04/2013
13:53
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PAGE05.pdf
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18/07/2013
08:59
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Santa Marija THE ASSUMPTION OF OUR LADY THERE IS SOMETHING OF PARTICULAR POIGNANCY ABOUT THE DATE OF AUGUST 15 ON THE MALTESE ISLANDS. THIS PUBLIC HOLIDAY WHICH FALLS ON THE HEIGHT OF THE SUMMER SEASON, IS ALSO THE RELIGIOUS CELEBRATION OF THE ASSUMPTION OF OUR LADY, ALIAS SANTA MARIA. BUT THE DATE ALSO HAPPENS TO FALL ON A HISTORIC EPISODE OF EPIC SIGNIFICANCE BOTH FOR THE ISLANDS' SURVIVAL AS WELL AS FOR THE INHABITANTS' SPIRITUAL AND RELIGIOUS BELIEFS.
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Images: Mosta festa © Victor B. Caruana
On the same date in 1942, at the peak of World War II, a convoy that spelt survival to the Maltese, slowly limped into the Grand Harbour. It was the last of a series of convoys which had headed unsuccessfully towards Malta to provide supplies the absence of which had nearly brought the islands to their knees. This convoy proved heroically successful in its intent. None of the convoys survived the passage to Malta but this convoy which the British referred to as Operation Pedestal and which the Maltese thereafter referred to as the 'Convoy ta' Santa Maria', made it to port. Damaged, under attack, but relatively whole. The 14 ships comprising the convoy included British and American ships which sailed valiantly into harbour to the immense relief of the people of the islands. The enemy's attempt to starve off the Maltese and urge the British colonial government to declare defeat, had failed.
Santa Maria sees a well-kept tradition of doing a pilgrimage to the seven Assumption churches belonging to the seven localities where the feast of the Assumption is celebrated on the day. These villages/towns include Mosta, Dingli, Attard, Qrendi, Mqabba, G˙axaq and Gudja. The Dingli feast is now celebrated with M©arr (Malta) and Ûebbu© (Gozo) on the Sunday following the 15th August. At the Victoria Cathedral in Gozo, the feast held fast to its liturgical day. Visit any one of these locations for a taste of the Santa Maria feast and do say a prayer of thankfulness for the success of Operation Pedestal without which Malta's history would probably have been entirely different.
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19/06/2013
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PAGE15.pdf
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18/06/2013
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PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE IN GOZO
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GOZO EVENTS DURING AUGUST
WHAT MAKES A PLACE UNIQUE IS ITS HISTORY, CULTURE AND TRADITIONS. THE TINY MEDITERRANEAN ISLAND OF GOZO POSSESSES A UNIQUE HERITAGE THAT HAS BEEN HANDED DOWN ACROSS CENTURIES AND IT MAY BE SURPRISING FOR VISITORS TO DISCOVER JUST HOW RIGHT THIS HERITAGE IS. One of Malta's leading banks has taken it upon itself to support Gozitan heritage in a big way. Bank of Valletta has funded a recent restoration project undertaken at the Ta' Pinu Shrine which homes some 20 works created purposely for its space by leading Maltese artist Emvin Cremona. The works which were executed in the interim between 1954 and 1962, are a series of now forgotten drawings which were stored inadequately, thus suffering great damage from the prolonged dampness. Gozitan restorer Godwin Cutajar worked through 24 long months in order to resuscitate the paintings new life which are presently displayed in the Sanctuary. Another key location is the Church of Divine Grace in Victoria wherein one finds Stefano Erardi's (1630-1716) masterpiece 'The Virgin of Divine Grace'. Overlooking the main altar, the painting was commissioned as a sign of gratitude towards the Virgin following the destructive 1693 earthquake. Contrary to what happened in other locations around Malta and also in Sicily, Victoria suffered only damage to buildings but no loss of lives. The masterpiece was recently restored by Prevarti Restorers and Conservators. The Small and unique former parish church in G˙ajnsielem contains six masterpieces by Malta's most prolific 19th century artist - Giuseppe Cali. Once more Bank of Valletta is funding the restoration of these works which make the church a highly visited location for those who appreciate Cali's talent.
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Paintings by Thomas Brunell. St. Ursola Hall, Citadella Centre for Culture & Arts, Citadel, Victoria. 22156700 – www.gozoculture.com
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Summer Gardens Arts Festival. Villa Rundle Gardens, Greek Theatre, Republic Street, Victoria. 22156700 – www.gozoculture.com
2-4
Feast of St. Joseph. Religious feast and social activities in the square and main streets of Qala.
2-30
Collective Art Exhibition by Art Club 2000. Exhibition Hall, Ministry for Gozo, St. Francis Square, Victoria. 22156400 – www.gozo.gov.mt
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Festival San Lawrenz. San Lawrenz Main Square, San Lawrenz. 21556073 – San Lawrenz Parish Office.
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Il-Fjakkolata tax-Xlendi. Xlendi Bay. 79064595 – www.munxar.gov.mt
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Grand Jubilee Concert by the Leone Band. Republic Street, Victoria. 21562974 – www.leone.org.mt
9-11
Feast of St. Lawrence. Religious feast and social activities in the square and main streets of San Lawrenz. 21556073 – www.sanlawrenz.gov.mt
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Riflessi Sajfin. Il-Menqa, Marsalforn Bay. 21563333 – www.oasi.org.mt
13-15
Feast of The Assumption of Our Lady. Religious feast and social activities in the square and main streets of Victoria. 21554101 – www.gozocathedral.org.mt
14-15
Il-Wirja ta’ Santa Marija. Villa Rundle Gardens, Republic Street, Victoria. 22156406 – www.gozo.gov.mt
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Għajnsielem Fest. Pjazza Madonna ta’ Loretu, Għajnsielem. 21561515 – www.ghajnsielem.com
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Summer Nights 2013. Victory Square, Xagħra. 21563737 – www.xaghra.com
16-18
Feast of The Assumption of Our Lady. Religious feast and social activities in the square and main streets of Żebbuġ. 21554882 – www.zebbuggozo.com
16-18
Delicata Wine Festival. Ġnien il-Kunsill, Nadur. 19:00 – 00:00. 21558080 www.nadur.gov.mt
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Gozo Music Festival. 99475282
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Sweet Music – A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Citadella Centre for Culture & Arts, Victoria. 22156700 – www.gozoculture.com
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Still life paintings by Wistin Camilleri Art School Għajnsielem. Banca Giuratale Foyer, Independence Square, Victoria. 22156700 – www.gozoculture.com
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Animal Parade & Show. Ta’ Blankas, Olive Grove, Xewkija. 21558822 – www.xewkija.gov.mt
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Jum l-Għarb. Visitation Square, Għarb. 21560556 – www.gharbnet.com
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Traditional Bonfire – The Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist. Main Square and streets, Xewkija. 21558822 – www.xewkija.gov.mt
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22/07/2013
10:41
Images: © IMPACT PR
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NEVER SAY NO TO NOUGAT FESTA TIME ON MALTA AND GOZO SPANS FROM LATE SPRING THROUGH TO THE END OF SUMMER. WHILST EACH FESTA IS LINKED TO A RELIGIOUS COMMEMORATION, IT IS ALSO AN OPPORTUNITY FOR SOCIAL OPEN-AIR FESTIVITIES THAT INCLUDE STREET DÉCOR AND TRADITIONAL STREET VENDORS SELLING TYPICAL MALTESE FOOD. One sweet attraction (literally) is traditional nougat. Called 'Qubbajt' by the Maltese, this is either of the soft or hard variety and comes in all shapes and sizes. Some of the older stands/stalls are particularly colourful and quaint and provide an excellent photographic opportunity. The story of how nougat was introduced to Malta is shrouded in mystery and legend. It is believed to have come here with the Knights of St John, however since this is a sweet of Middle Eastern culinary character, it may have earlier origins dating back to the times of the Arab or Turkish occupation. However, for those who have visited Italy, the nougat greatly resembles Italian torroncini. The key ingredients in nougat are sugar and nuts. Choosing between the hard and soft varieties is a matter of taste and strong or weak mandibles. The soft variety of nougat contains nuts, candied fruits and cherries. It is favoured by children most of whom go especially for the newer varieties that incorporate chocolate. The hard varieties have a high content of nuts with caramalised sugar to bind the bars together. Try a variety to see which you like best and note that each nougat vendor will have his own speciality for you to sample for free. Certainly, taking back home some brightly wrapped Maltese nougat will be a splendid way to remember your time at the village festa.
LIVING IN MALTA & GOZO A PLACE IN THE SUN Malta and Gozo are becoming increasingly popular locations for the purchase or rental of second homes. Situated at the very heart of the Mediterranean Sea, with easy access from all major cities in Europe, North Africa and neighbouring states, the Islands have many advantages to offer, including the following:
WHY MALTA • An excellent climate with pleasant all year round weather. • Genuinely friendly and hospitable people who will make it easy to integrate within the local community. • Very low levels of crime which make Malta one of the safest places in the region. • A member of the European Union since 2004, Malta is an independent republic enjoying political stability. • English is one of the two official languages of the Islands and is spoken fluently by everyone. • The Island boasts a high standard of hospital and medical services, both private and public. • Excellent schooling, often exceeding international standards, with a choice of English-speaking schools and University. • A relatively low cost of living. • A stable property market offering a wide variety of properties in all price ranges, and good prospects for capital growth. These, together with an abundance of historical and cultural attractions, crystal clear seas, a variety of sporting facilities (including world class diving) and a lively calendar of events, make these Islands a favourite for those seeking their dream ‘Place in the Sun'. Moreover, the residency conditions are very attractive and include a favourable tax regime and the absence of Rates or Council taxes.
FLYING TIMES Malta – London 3.05hrs Malta – Frankfurt 2.35hrs Malta – Rome 1.15hrs
Malta – Amsterdam 3.05hrs Malta – Paris 2.35hrs Malta – Cairo 2.25hrs
PURCHASE OF PROPERTY BY NON-MALTESE BUYERS It is quite easy for a non-Maltese to purchase property in Malta and Gozo. Naturally, some conditions apply including certain restrictions regarding the minimum value of property that can be purchased and the use that the buyer will make of the property. Some buyers may also require a special permit.
MORE INFORMATION For further information and assistance, we recommend that you contact one of the excellent local Estate Agents who can offer professional guidance and advice to help you make the best choice.
If you are an expatriate living in Malta or Gozo...
you may regularly receive a copy of this monthly magazine in your mail with our compliments. Simply e-mail your name and address to: info@impactpr.com.mt
THE BLUE GROTTO BEYOND THE VILLAGE OF ÛURRIEQ LIES A LONG NARROW VALLEY WHICH LEADS TO A HAMLET BY THE SEA. THIS COMMUNITY IS MADE UP OF FISHERMEN’S HOUSES, RESTAURANTS AND BARS.
MAL MAL TA&GOZO TA&GOZ 20 l 21
D A Y B Y D A Y
Images: © Mario Galea www.viewingmalta.com
From this location one can enjoy a wonderful view of the sea and its magical islet, Filfla. It is also from here that fishermen leave with their boats for their fishing expeditions. The concrete quay also serves as a bathing place for those who want to cool themselves during the long hot summer months. The main attraction of this area is the Blue Grotto. As this can only be reached by sea, one has to take a boat from the quay. The boat leaves the landing stage and heads towards the left, below the cliffs of Żurrieq. As one moves outwards one can notice a series of small grottos. The wonderful Blue Grotto follows. It is a large sea cavern with two suspended arches. As one enters the cavern one notices its vastness and calmness. The waters offer a wonderful play of colours due to the reflection of the sun. Its water houses a small colony of small fish. After gorging oneself on its beauty one should not forget to have a good look at the ‘roof’. Here one can notice a small cluster of wild fig trees growing on the sides as well as stalactites. We recommend that you include a visit to this fascinating landmark in your itinerary.
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ILJIELI MELLEÓIN 2013 WHY VISIT MELLIEÓA? ONE GOOD REASON IS ITS SANDY BEACH AND FUN WATER SPORTS. ANOTHER GOOD REASON IS THE FORTHCOMING EDITION OF ILJIELI MELLEÓIN (MELLIEÓA NIGHTS). THIS ANNUAL SUMMER EVENT, NOW IN ITS 6TH EDITION, WILL BE HELD ON THE WEEKEND BETWEEN FRIDAY 16 AND SUNDAY 18 AUGUST. Once again this event promises to be one well worth visiting. For those who have never seen a Maltese village during festa time, Iljieli Melle˙in are a great non-religious option. For one thing, all the main village roads and squares will be pedestrianised so that villagers and non can recoup the streets to themselves for once. The Mellie˙a Sanctuary which is this year celebrating its 2000 year anniversary will be open for public viewing with choir singing concerts accompanying the experience. On a rather wilder note, the Queen Tribute Band will be performing to the delight of the many Queen fans on the island. Young children will enjoy the Disney parade whilst varied local artists will be performing to the delight of the crowds. Other highlights will include art exhibitions, sport events, static car and motor shows, adventurous off-roading shows, a national car sound competition, and a national drifting competition. As befits any self-respecting Maltese celebration, the open banqueting will be available along the streets so that visitors will be able to enjoy open-air dining. For those who want to take some delicacies back home, plenty of local NGOs will be manning stands selling food and drink to help raise funds. Remember to slot this event in your vacation diary.
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PAGE31.pdf
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23/04/2013
12:20
PAGE28.pdf
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19/07/2013
09:21