C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
MALTA&GOZO D A Y B Y D A Y
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
PAGE12_13.pdf
1
24/01/2013
12:17
ST PAUL, THE PATRON SAINT OF THE MALTESE ISLANDS
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Tradition has it that on the site where the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked and performed his first miracle, the early Christians erected a small church dedicated to this saint. All this is shrouded in the mists of obscurity. It seems it all started in the late Middle Ages when Bernardo Janer, a dean of the Mdina Chapter, who was a great devotee of St Paul, rebuilt a church dedicated to St Paul (known as Tal-G立ejjer) on this site and even endowed it with a benefice.
PAGE12_13.pdf
2
24/01/2013
12:17
12 l 13
C
M
Y
CM
MY
Image: © www.viewingmalta.com CY
CMY
K
THE PAULINE CULT According to various scholars the cult of St Paul dates back to 1299 when the Mdina St Paul Cathedral is recorded in a Spanish document. According to an Order of St John’s chronicler – Jean Quintin d’Autun in 1536: ‘There is a small chapel in stone, not the least venerated in the island.’ In the 17th century, Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt decided to build a tower on the site of the church. This tower was erected on the plans of Vittorio Cassar. A year later the church was re-built on another site, along the bay, where the present church stands. As the church was annexed with St Paul’s Grotto, which is in Rabat, it became more exposed to pilgrims who visited Malta during the 16th and 17th centuries. According to Dr Thomas Freller, during the 17th century, pilgrims came from all over Europe. A Dutch artist Willem Schellinks who travelled on a donkey from this small church to St Paul’s Grotto as well as Olfert Dapper a travel writer left a description of the church. This small church is so important to the Maltese identity. It is considered by writers and scholars to be a symbol of our Faith as well as of our European characteristics.
Image: © DOI
PAGE14 22/1/13 09:58 Page 1 C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
PAGE16_17.pdf
1
24/01/2013
12:08
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
GOZO'S CARNIVAL ‘Carne vale’ was the phrase which got carnival its name. It means ‘meat can be eaten’ and allowed Christians to eat meat before the 40 days of fasting began during Lent. The fun-loving celebrations were traditionally held on the days before the religious period of Lent which preceded Easter. Thus, during carnival, for five whole days, the populace was allowed to eat to its heart content and revel in all manner of debauchery, dance and deviations, wearing creative and sometimes costly costumes and masks. The masks were used to avoid recognition wherever people feasted. In Gozo, as in Malta, carnival was a very special occurrence dating back to the times of the Knights of St John.
PAGE16_17.pdf
2
24/01/2013
12:08
16 l 17
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Carnival is still enjoyed and celebrated nowadays with great enthusiasm during the cold days of February. Such is the enthusiasm that the Gozitan carnival has earned international recognition, most especially for the carnival events held in Nadur. Whilst the main events are held in Victoria, the spontaneous celebrations are held in Nadur where things happen ad hoc, with no organisational overseers taking control of the goings on. This popular carnival location transforms itself during the five days of carnival, turning from a quiet and sedate village to a wild, loud and disordered location where people congregate for just one reason - to enjoy themselves in the wildest of manners. Image: Š IMPACT PR
Disguise is often time taken to extremes with grotesque figures wearing wigs, make-up, outrageous clothing and more. The locals who participate never utter a word, if anything, to avoid recognition, a fact which leads the Nadur carnival to be also referred to as the Silent Carnival. Carnival floats do participate but these are very often slapdash affairs meant to create sensation and controversy in veiled manners, rather than impress with flashing lights, dancing troupes and concocted artistry. So, arm yourself with a good dose of open-mindedness as you head towards Nadur and prepare yourself to be amazed and amused.
Image: Š Ministry For Gozo
PAGE18.pdf
1
24/01/2013
12:12
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Celebrating the Chinese New Year
Images: Š China Cultural Centre
Each year the Chinese community in Malta celebrates the Chinese New Year in Valletta. This year celebrations take on added significance since the Chinese New Year celebrations for 2013 coincide with the 10th anniversary from the establishment of the China Cultural Centre in Malta. The Valletta Local Council will once again join forces with the CCC in celebrating the Chinese New Year of Snake.
Celebrations continue on Monday 4 February at 7:00pm, with a performance by Chinese and Maltese artists at a charity show at St Anne's Hall in Marsaskala.
First celebrations start on Sunday 3 February and will see 21 outstanding artists from The China Jiangsu Art Troupe, presenting a spectacular art performance of Chinese traditional music, dance and martial arts at St. George’s Square, Valletta. Fancy parades will be held before the opening at 9:30am, and at 11:30am the parades will move along Republic Street and Merchants Street with diverse artists wearing dazzling costumes performing dances of typical oriental charm.
On Friday, 22 February at 7:00pm, a film reception will be held at the CCC Multi-functional Hall and the event will also include a number of lucky draws.
In the eveniing at 8:00pm, the China Jiangsu Art Troupe will present a Grand Art Performance at the Sir Temi Zammit Hall, University of Malta. The program will include martial arts, magic, hand lion dance, puppet-show and Chinese classical music.
In the meantime a solo painting exhibition entitled OPUS 2012-After the Masters, with works by Ray Piscopo, will be showing at the CCC Art Gallery between 25 January and 20 February.
Finally, the Lantern Festival Fair will be held at the CCC address on Melita Street, Valletta on Saturday, 23 February between 10:00am and 4:00pm to celebrate Chinese Lantern Festival. During the fair, attractive Chinese decorations, delicious Chinese food and charming Chinese cultural souvenirs will be available at most favorable prices.
PAGE19.pdf
1
24/01/2013
12:20
18 l 19
CARNIVAL
SWEET HERITAGE
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Image: © Gino Galea - www.viewingmalta.com
CARNIVAL IS A TIME FOR MERRYMAKING AND EATING. A TIME OF ENJOYMENT IS USUALLY ACCOMPANIED BY SWEETS. CARNIVAL TOO HAS ITS OWN PARTICULAR SWEETS. MOST OF THESE HAVE THEIR ORIGIN IN SICILY AS DURING THE MIDDLE AGES CATHOLIC MALTA WAS PART AND PARCEL OF THE SICILIAN PROVINCE OF PALERMO.
THE ‘PRINJOLATA’ This sweet consists of a large cake in the shape of a little mound. This cake is covered with white icing and a large quantity of pieces of almonds as well as green and red candied peels. The ‘prinjolata’ is very rich in nuts and its taste is very sweet. One can buy a piece of ‘prinjolata’ or else buy a small cone shaped one at a cafeteria . ‘PERLINI’ These are hard little sweets which consist of an almond at the centre covered with a coating of icing in pale and pearly shades. The most popular colours are red, blue and yellow. White ‘perlini’ are also popular. In former days during the Carnival defile, which was held either at Valletta or Senglea, the people dressed in customs on carnival floats used to throw ‘perlini’ at the crowds. ‘Perlini’ were also thrown by people in costumes who were in ‘karozzini’ (a cart driven by a horse). These carts used to visit villages and hamlets so that the countryside people would be able to admire a carnival decorated cart. While passing through the village streets the cart people would throw ‘perlini’ at the village children. When these children would see ‘perlini’ all over the place they would run and try to pick up as many ‘perlini’ as possible.
PAGE20_21.pdf
1
24/01/2013
10:10
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
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
• 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.
Night shot of Tas-Sellum property with lights in the distance
IT'S OFFICIAL MALTA HAS THE BEST CLIMATE ON EARTH. Malta was one of two countries that were tied for first place with the title of Best Climate, according to the Quality of Life Index issued by the International Living magazine last year. Yet a Mediterranean climate, enjoying over 5 hours of sunshine a day, isn't all that Malta has to offer. Malta's many other virtues in the 9 categories of the IL index combined to earn it 3rd place overall in the Index. That ranking speaks volumes for the size of Malta's quality offering relative to the island's land mass of just 122 square miles.
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
Ta’ Monita residence
PAGE20_21.pdf
2
24/01/2013
10:10
MAL MAL TA&GOZO TA&GOZ 20 l 21
D A Y B Y D A Y
MALTA: A COOL CLIMATE
THAT'S HOT ON THE QUALITY-OFLIFE INDEX.
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
How about a stable government, economy and a modern health service? These factors carry a lot of pull for wealthy English and Europeans looking to get away from their frosty climes. In fact, frost and snow are unknown in Malta with temperatures of 21 degrees Celcius in November. Flights to many European capitals are just 3 hours away. Crime is low, education levels high, the locals hospitable and English-speaking. As a result, homes and apartments here have now attracted the international set. So has the historic harbours, 5-star hotels, restaurants and nightlife. Despite its geographic location and abundance of sun and sea, Malta's lifestyle as an up-market destination had little relevance for the aspiring overseas home buyer. That was until Portomaso was built, which enhanced the quality of life for those buyers who could make the right investment decision. This vision of the Portomaso marina would bring Malta to the attention of the international property market with an Oscar of the property world - Gold Award in the Best Marina Development Category in the 2005 International Property Awards. Out of the Portomaso mould have been cast two more luxury developments in the north and south of the island, both a stone's throw from the Med. These two new residencies 'offer lifestyle choices of the highest standards'. More to the point, poured into these two moulds are all the expectations of luxury, safety, tranquility and, you've guessed it, lifestyle. Tas-Sellum and Ta' Monita have been designed to suit most pockets. Tas-Sellum offers a one-bedroom apartment of 68 square meters starting at €158,000 going up to a million plus for larger apartments whilst Ta' Monita offers apartments starting at €98,000 going up to a million plus. Both residences are termed Specially Designated Area, allowing the buyer to purchase more than one property in Malta and Gozo for private use or for business.
Images © IMPACT PR Day shot of Portomaso
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
PAGE24_25.pdf
1
24/01/2013
10:19
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
IT'S
Carnival
Image: © IMPACT PR
TIME
THE BIGGER OF THE SMALL ISLANDS, MALTA ALWAYS TREATS ITS VISITORS TO A GREAT DEAL OF CARNIVAL GLEE DURING FEBRUARY. THIS MONTH OF FRUGAL CELEBRATIONS WHICH INCLUDE ALSO THE VERY ROMANTIC VALENTINE’S DAY, PROVIDES MALTA THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE ITS TALENTS LINKED TO CARNIVAL AND PLACES IT ON THE INTERNATIONAL CARNIVAL MAP. AS EARLY AS THE 16TH CENTURY, THE ISLANDS’S POPULATIONS WERE GROOMED TO ENJOY THE FEW DAYS OF CARNIVAL AS PART AND PARCEL OF THE PAGAN SIDE OF CHRISTIANITY, ALLOWING THEM TO GO TO EXCESSES BEFORE EMBARKING ON THE STRICT REGIMEN OF A 40-DAY-LONG FAST BEFORE THE RELIGIOUS CELEBRATION OF EASTER. Carnival is celebrated mostly in the main city of Valletta with enormous carnival floats supporting costumed dancers and musicians which parade down the main streets of this old and noble city. The carnival celebrations spill out into Floriana and then continue spontaneously in varied small towns and especially, the most notable of which are Ghaxaq in Malta and Nadur in Gozo.
PAGE24_25.pdf
2
24/01/2013
10:19
24 l 25
C
M
Image: © Clive Vella - www.viewingmalta.com Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Image: © Malta Council For Culture & The Arts
The Malta Council for Culture and the Arts organises the official Carnival festivities that take place in Valletta from Friday until the following Tuesday. Some of the events are held inside an enclosure and may be attended against a nominal fee. On the last day, a big Carnival defile ends in the main street of Floriana with a fireworks display. The onus is on providing entertainment for all, with young and old being ‘allowed’ to dress up in full costume, parade the streets, blow horns and whistles, be merry and enjoy to the hilt.
Image: © IMPACT PR
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY CMY
K