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25/09/2012
14:24
THE MAGICAL
GRAND HARBOUR
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THE MALTESE COASTLINE IS RICH IN INLETS AND CREEKS. THE MOST IMPORTANT OF THESE IS THE GRAND HARBOUR, A SHELTERED PORT WITH A GOOD NUMBER OF PROMONTORIES, CREEKS AND INLETS. THIS AREA HAS SINCE TIME IMMEMORIAL, BEEN SUBJECTED TO SEVERAL DEFENCE DEVELOPMENTS. IT IS ALSO ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT NATURAL ATTRACTIONS IN MALTA.
The Grand harbour’s main fortification is Fort St Angelo, built on the Birgu (Vittoriosa) promontory. The origin of this fort is lost in antiquity. It was during the reign of the Hohenstaufen Emperor, Federick III that the Grand Harbour obtained a castle by the sea (Castrum Maris). The Royal Castellan lived inside this fort while he collected custom dues and safeguarded navigation. Thanks to this fort the people of Birgu, a fishing community, felt safe. When the Knights arrived this fort was changed to the official headquarters of the Order and the Birgu community started to increase. The knights strengthened this fort by the addition of several works.
Image: View from the entrance to Grand Harbour © IMPACT PR
Image: The Three Cities © Clive Vella
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Image: The Three Cities © Clive Vella
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Image: Fort St. Angelo © IMPACT PR
The 1551 Turkish attack on the islands, motivated the Knights to build a small star-shaped fort on the tip of the Mount Sciberras promontory – Fort St Elmo. L-Isla (Senglea) was also given a fort – Fort St Michael. Unfortunately this fort no longer exists as its site is being occupied by the Senglea Primary School. The victory over the Turks, resulted in the erection of a new capital city – Valletta. This led to the port being surrounded by massive limestone walls – bastions, curtains and vedettes. The British increased the Grand Harbour’s rich heritage. They enlarged Villa Bighi, on the Kalkara promontory, to make the building suitable to house a naval hospital. Along the Birgu shore, they built a Naval Bakery (today the National Maritime Museum) on the site of the Order’s shipyard. They also developed the innermost inlet of this port as a commercial site and named it Portonovo (New Port). To make the port safer the Breakwater was built at the entrance of the port. In recent years, Dock no 6 (also known as the Red China Dock) was built making the Grand Harbour equipped with the modern ship-building technology of the times. If you want to catch a bird-eye view of this port, we suggest that you visit the Upper Barracca and from its terrace you can admire a wonderful view of this natural port – the Grand Harbour.
Image: Upper Barracca Gardens, overlooking Grand Harbour © IMPACT PR
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20/09/2012
10:20
Local Council Events
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Festubru
5,6,7 October, 2012 - Ta' Kerçem, Gozo
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A three-day activity including attractions and exhibitions featuring animals and farming tools as used by our forefathers. Witness the production of Gozitan cheeselets and wool weaving. Local fresh products will be on sale. The fascinating Lunzjata Chapel will be open throughout the weekend.
L-Imqabba mal-Medda TaΩ-Ûmien (Mqabba through the ages) 5 October, 2012 Imqabba
The Mentna Catacombs from the Paleo Christian era, the Chapel of Saint Basil from the Byzantine era, the Chapel of Saint Michael, Saint Catherine Chapel and Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel will be open to the public and entry is free of charge. A band formed by the two local band clubs, together with musicians playing traditional instruments will rove around and make the cultural activity a lively one. A taste of Maltese traditional dishes will be available.
BIRGUFEST
19, 20 October, 2012 - Vittoriosa An annual national event, Birgufest highlights the beauty, history and architecture of Birgu (Vittoriosa) in a romantic manner. The streets are lit up by candle-light while the festival provides historic re-enactments, extended and cheaper museum entrances, and the opening up to the public of other venues of interest including churches, highlight the immense historic value of this city. In addition, food stalls offering both Maltese and other food, various musical concerts - ranging from classical to modern, and various exhibitions, make this event truly an outing with something to suit all tastes and ages.
Symphony of Lights
20 October, 2012 - Ta' Kerçem, Gozo This activity will be highlighted by a light spectacular, a fireworks display and a musical concert by the Gozo Youth Wind-band, the all being held within a candle-lit area creating a very warm atmosphere. The general public will be able to share the culture and traditions of this hamlet during a non-traditional touristic time. Entrance is free.
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20/09/2012
10:19
OPERA ON GOZO
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Image: World-famous duo soprano Michele Crider and tenor Neil Shicoff © Anthony Grech
Image: Mezzo-soprano Oana Andra © Joe Attard
WHAT ABOUT HOPPING OFF TO GOZO TO ENJOY SOME THEATRE AND THE OPERA? THIS OCTOBER SEES TWO AMAZING CLASSICS COMING UP ON STAGE IN GOZO….. Turandot – Teatru tal-Opra Aurora
Madama Butterfly – Teatru Astra
Puccini’s unfinished opera, the Turandot remains one of Puccini’s greatest masterpieces of his later years. October 13 will see the staging of the Turandot at The Teatru tal-Opra Aurora, 10 years since if was last staged on Gozo. The Aurora has secured the star participation of Ukranian-born soprano Maria Guleghina in the title role of Princess Turandot. Currently as a top singer for the part, Guleghina will be pausing from her appointments at New York's Metropolitan Opera House to travel to Gozo to perform for one night, before returning to New York to proceed with her operatic season there as Princess Turandot. The Turandot will be conducted by Colin Attard with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. The artistic direction and the set design have been entrusted to Novella Tabili.
Giacomo Puccini created Madama Butterfly, first staged in Milan in 1904 and becoming one of Italy’s most appreciated operas. It has once again been selected to grace the stage of Teatru Astra in Victoria, on 25 and 27 October. Some of the world’s most important opera stars will be performing at the Astra including soprano Daniela Dessì as Cio-cio-san and baritone Carlo Guelfi as Sharpless. Both singers have performed together on several occasions in some of the world’s most important theatres. Moreover they are both highly experienced in working with a selection of internationally acclaimed orchestra conductors, the likes of Muti, Levine, Abbado and others.
Tickets can be booked from the Teatru tal-Opra Aurora Booking Office. Booking available: 21559452 or 21562974 or info@leone.org.mt.
More information: www.mediterranea.com.mt or 21550985. Booking available: 79256897 or bookings@mediterranea.com.mt.
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GOZO EVENTS DURING OCTOBER 1-31
De Soldanis Centenary Exhibition. Commemorating the 300th anniversary from the birth of Can. Gian Piet Agius de Soldanis, a prolific Gozitan writer Exhibition Hall, Ministry for Gozo, St Francis Square, Victoria. www.gozo.gov.mt
5-7
Festubru. Traditional festival highlighting folklore and typical culinary dishes. Lunzjata valley, Ta’ Kerċem. www.bandasangirgor.org
5-7
Fig Festival – 3rd Edition. Exhibition on cultivation and use of figs and fig products. Our Lady of Victories Square and main streets, Xag˙ra. www.xaghra.com
5-28
Paronae Gaudisii. Exhibition of paintings and memorabilia related to Saint Ursola’s patronage of Gozo Banca Giuratale Foyer, Independence Square, Victoria. www.gozoculture.com
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Procession of Our Lady of the Rosary. St Joseph Square and main streets, Qala. www.qala.gov.mt
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Procession of Our Lady of the Rosary. Assumption Square and main streets, Ûebbu©. www.zebbuggozo.com
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Processions of Our Lady of the Rosary. Our Lady of Victories Square and main streets, Xag˙ra. www.xaghraparish.org
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Turandot by Giacomo Puccini. Featuring international singers, the National Philharmonic Orchestra and choir Aurora Opera House, Victoria. www.leone.org.mt
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25,27
25-31 Festival Mediterranea 2012 – 11th Edition. A series of lectures, site visits and concerts with the participation of local and foreign artists. Various venues. www.lastella.com.mt 26
Site visit, led by Dr. Paul G. Pisani. St. George’s Basilica, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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Tango Emoción, performance by Mezzo-Soprano Oana Andra from Romania. Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz. www.mediterranea.com.mt
26-18 Paintings by Anastasia Poneatovskaia Pace. Exhibition Hall, Ministry for Gozo, St Francis Square, Victoria. www.gozo.gov.mt 26-25 Paintings by Liliana Hurtado. Exhibition by a Peruvian artist. St. Ursola Hall, Cittadella Centre for Culture & Arts, Gozo Citadel, Victoria. www.gozoculture.com 27
The Vines of San Mitri. Vineyard tours and winetasting. G˙arb Square. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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Gozo Regional Day. Pontifical high mass and a wreath laying ceremony. Independence Square and Gozo Cathedral, Victoria. www.gozoculture.com
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Feast of the Holy Eucharist known as ‘Il-Kwaranturi”. St Joseph Square and main streets of Qala. www.qala.gov.mt
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1948 Shipwreck. Mass aboard a Gozo Channel ferry commemorating the tragic shipwreck at Qala. Wreath laying ceremony on site M©arr Harbour. www.gozoculture.com
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Music in Liturgy. Sunday Mass with the participation of the Laudate Pueri Choir. St. George’s Basilica, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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Operatic Arias. Vocal recital by Oana Andra. Aula Mgr. Farrugia, St. George’s Basilica, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
13-14 Feast of the Patronage of Our Lady. Tal-Patroçinju Hamlet, G˙asri. Tal-Patroçinju Basilica on 21556833 14
Feast of Jesus the Nazarene. Hamlet feast including religious and social activities, Nazzarenu Hamlet, Xag˙ra. Church of Jesus the Nazarene on 21560813
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Symphony of Light. An evening of music, gastronomy, bonfires and fire works. St Lucy Square, Santa Luçija, Ta’ Kerċem. www.santalucija.com
Attard 20
Patronae Gaudisii. Exhibition of paintings and memorabilia related to Saint Ursola’s patronage of Gozo Banca Giuratale Foyer, Independence Square, Victoria. www.gozoculture.com
Madama Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini. Featuring international singers, the National Philharmonic Orchestra and choir. Astra Theatre, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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19/09/2012
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Ravjul RAVJUL IS A STAPLE FAVOURITE WITH THE MALTESE. A FILLING, COLOURFUL DISH, IT IS EASY TO PREPARE AND DELICIOUS TO SAVOUR. ELSEWHERE REFERRED TO AS RAVIOLI, IT IS ONE OF SEVERAL TYPICAL MALTESE DISHES WHICH PROBABLY ORIGINATED IN ITALY BUT WHICH HAS, OVER THE CENTURIES TRANSFORMED INTO SOMETHING SO TYPICALLY MALTESE. A speciality that is apparently easy to make at home, ravioli was traditionally home-made. Gently rolled dough is spread out thinly, cut in shape and filled with a mixture of eggs, Ricotta or Ìbejna. Both Ricotta and Ìbejna are freshly made, the Ricotta resembling cottage cheese but being a Mediterranean speciality, the latter resembling a soft cheese, made from goat or sheep milk and typical of the islands. Seasoning and freshly cut parsley sprigs are added and each dough shape is folded over to form a tiny parcel. The little parcels are then boiled in the same way pasta is, but on steadily low heat and once done, they are served with garlic flavoured tomato sauce and loads of grated parmesan cheese. Ten to twelve is the maximum served on each plate because they are pretty filling. Simple to make and highly nutritious, Ravjul are today more popularly purchased frozen from supermarkets. Which makes the home-made version extra special and highly appreciated in local restaurants. Ravjul are filled with spinach and ricotta when the spinach is in season. Occasionally the dish is presented laced with mushroom cream rather than tomato sauce. It depends on one’s preferences but certainly, the traditional Ravjul are the best preferred of all.
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20/09/2012
13:46
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
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• 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
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MAL MAL TA&GOZO TA&GOZ 22 l 23
D A Y B Y D A Y
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MDINA GRAND PRIX 2012 Classic cars and Mdina go together. At least they will this October when they come together for the Mdina Grand Prix 2012. Malta’s Historic and Classic Car Grand Prix 2012 is this year being organized in The Silent City by The Valletta Grand Prix Foundation between 11th and 14th October.
In addition to the actual Grand Prix, the weekend will entertain spectators with Static Car Exhibitions which will be set up in collaboration with the VGPF, the Old Motors Club (OMC) VW Club Malta and various other local motoring clubs. Mdina Grand Prix 2012 Event Programme
Born in 2009, the islands’ very own Grand Prix has now become a prestigious annual event which is becoming also internationally renowned with participants from all over Europe attending. The 2011 event saw Malta experiencing three days of motorsport racing that attracted the attention of the international classic motorsport press. The Concours d’Elegance which proved highly successful will be repeated this year on Friday 12th October in Mdina’s Cathedral Square. This event is a veritable classic show of the thirties and fifties when vehicle owners dressed up to the nines just to show off their cars in public. Once again, participants are encouraged to dress up in a costume styled according to the year of manufacture of their vehicle. This facet of the Concours d’Elegance will be given special priority by judges and extra points will be awarded for stylishly dressed accompanying ladies, whether cars belong to pre-war, post war, popular classics, or motorbikes category with the cut-off date being 1975. Prizes will be awarded to each class winner.
Friday 12th Following the fantastic success of the Concours d’Elegance last year, this glamorous event will once again be held at the Cathedral Square in Mdina. The Island’s best classic cars will be joined by our overseas participants, and a festive atmosphere is guaranteed, with live classical music and owners in period attire. Saturday 13th In the morning practice takes place on the 2.2 kilometer track below the Mdina bastions. The exciting circuit includes fast straights mixed with demanding corners. Participating vehicles will be timed in the afternoon to determine their best performances and hence the winner of the event. Sunday 14th This will be a packed day, with 80 cars participating. Each group will have two runs in the morning, and two in the afternoon. We are also expecting demonstration runs for classic motorbikes and supercars.
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19/09/2012
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THE MALTA MILITARY TATTOO 2012
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The Malta Tattoo is the annual major tourism draw, and is a reflection of Malta’s military music heritage. The event has earned a well deserved reputation for offering its audiences an exciting and vibrant blend of music and performances by a Maltese and international line-up of talent. This unique gathering of performers from various countries continues to be a yearly highlight in the local calendar. The Maltese are very fond of band music. This is reflected in the fact that in Malta there are 90 active band clubs with a total of 3,931 persons who are resident or trainee band players. With a total band club membership of over 30,000, these form over six per cent of the total population aged 5-84 years. These figures, even by themselves, show the popularity of band music in Malta. But if taken against a background of
about 1,250 band programmes performed yearly within the locality of the band clubs and outside their locality, we get the real feeling of the Maltese population towards band music. On the other hand, the active presence of tourists in band marches and musical programmes indicates that band music is an added value to our tourism product. The Malta Tattoo is a pleasant conclusion of the Maltese festive season in which band clubs have the lion’s share of the entertainment. The event will this year feature bands from Italy, Poland, Scotland, England and a top Roller Skating group from Estonia. These will participate together with the local Ûurrieq Scouts Pipes and Drums, Marsa Scouts Pipes and Drums plus Corps of Drums, Wallace Pipes and Drums, Malta Police Precision Drill Team, Malta Police Band and the Armed Forces of Malta Band. The Last two bands have always been a huge attraction with all patrons.
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