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MALTA&GOZO D A Y B Y D A Y
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PAGE12_13NEW.pdf
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November
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Image Š Vanda Biffani - www.viewingmalta.com
a month of many traditions IN MALTA EACH MONTH HAS ITS OWN PARTICULAR TRADITIONS. THESE TRADITIONS HAVE BEEN HANDED, FROM ONE GENERATION TO ANOTHER, FOR MANY YEARS. NOVEMBER IS NOT AN EXCEPTION. SOME OF THESE TRADITIONS ARE OLD WHILE A PARTICULAR ONE BELONGS TO THE 20TH CENTURY.
November starts with the feast of All Saints. The following day is the feast of All Souls. People used to go to church to hear three Masses. In the big baroque churches, all side altars, were used. After mass, the people would visit the local cemetery. They would go to their family tomb, clean the surface, light candles and place flowers. This latter tradition is still alive making cemeteries look like floral shows. I wish to suggest that, on the night, between the first two days of the month, a visitor could drive along the by-pass, which passes next to the Paola cemetery. The hundreds of candles lit in the night is indeed a magical scene.
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The 17th November is another folkloristic day. It is the feast of St Martin. As this saint is associated with charity, the Maltese prepare a cloth bag which is filled with almonds, walnuts, chestnuts, figs, pomegranates, oranges, apples and some sweets and given to children. The major attraction of this bag is the ħbejza which is a small sweet bread bun loaf. I suggest that you taste these bread buns as they are available in supermarkets, at this time of the year.
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At St Paul’s church, in Valletta, the chapel of St Martin is decorated with silver and artificial flowers. This chapel belongs to the only confraternity of this saint. In former days, this confraternity used to cater for the social, economic and spiritual needs of its members who were all workers of the catering establishments. During the last century, Poppy Day was introduced. This was due to the presence of the British forces on the island, as Malta was part of the British Empire. This tradition is still alive and in mid-November a special religious service is held at St John Co-Cathedral, in Valletta, followed by a ceremony, next to the War Memorial in Floriana.
Another tradition linked with the feast of St Martin is the tasting of new-made wine. Vines are harvested in September and they are made into wine soon afterwards. Then they are placed in wood or glass large containers waiting to be bottled and tasted on this feast day. At Baħrija, on Sunday the 17th November, the community feast is held. The major attraction is the sale of animals, plants and vegetables in aid of the building of the new church, which is dedicated to St Martin. The whole hamlet seems to become an open market. A procession also leaves the church with a statue of the saint.
PAGE14.pdf
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ARTS HOBBIES AND CRAFTS EXHIBITION 2ND TO 4TH NOV. 2012
What do Maltese people do in their spare time? Contrary to the common misconception that they waste a lot of time in front of their computers and on facebook, the Maltese are very keen hobbyists and the upcoming Arts, Hobbies and Crafts Exhibision being held in Naxxar is certainly proof of this. An annual cultural happening that has been recurring for the past 12 years, the exhibition brings together hobbyists from varied fields and varied age groups to showcase paintings, iron work, wood and stone sculptures, ceramics, traditional ‘ganutell’, fresh and dry flower arrangements, embroidery, caricatures, photography and more. Over the years, the exhibition morphed from a simple local crafts exhibition to a well organised and professional arts exhibition. Showcasing such skills also helps to support Maltese traditional crafts and the culture surrounding them. An event such as this is of particular attraction to visiting tourists who can experience a touch of Maltese creativity that has also been handed down over generations. Young and promising artists as well as seasoned and experienced artists mingle with visitors to share their insight on their work whilst free and informal workshops allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of art and crafts. Friday 2nd Nov – 17:00 – 21:00; Saturday 3rd Nov – 09:00-13:30; 17:30-20:00; Sunday 4th Nov – 09:30-20:00. At The Naxxar Oratory, Oratory Street, Naxxar. More information can be obtained from the Naxxar Local Council on telephone numbers 21417224 or 27013044, through email naxxar.lc@gov.mt or by following Council’s Facebook Page on http://www.facebook.com/NaxxarLC.
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PAGE16_17.pdf
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A WALK THROUGH
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Image © Paolo Meitre Liberatini - www.viewingmalta.com
THE MALTESE ISLANDS AT THEIR BEST – THAT IS WHAT YOU GET DURING THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER. NOVEMBER ALLURE IS INDEED HERE AND ISN’T IT FABULOUS? THE SUN IS STILL WARM, THE GREENERY IS BLOOMING AFTER THE FIRST RAINS, THE COUNTRYSIDE IS OOZING LUSCIOUSNESS AND THE WEATHER STILL ALLOWS THE OCCASIONAL DIP IN THE MEDITERRANEAN PLUS LONG WALKS THAT ARE PLEASANT ALL ROUND – NOT TOO WARM, NOT TOO COLD. Experiencing the island of Gozo at this time is heavenly especially if you’re staying around the small traditional villages which dot the western part of the island. There are quite a few important landmarks to note. First, check out G˙asri. This is one of the smallest hamlets on the islands and it boasts one of the most picturesque locations possible – Wied l-G˙asri, a valley that brings together the sea and the cliffs in a beautiful connection between flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in this ambience for a taste of what Gozitan countryside can look like at its best. Moving on, one reaches the village of San Lawrenz, still basking in a rural lifestyle that is minutes away from a most amazing natural landmark, that of Dwejra Bay. Images of this location grace the tourist and holiday brochures of Gozo by the dozen and rightly so. This spectacular site has not gone un-noticed and has attracted the attention of top notch producers of several international blockbuster films including 1981’s Clash of the Titans, 1997’sThe Odyssey, 2002’s The Count of Monte Cristo and more recently 2012’s brand new series entitled Game of Thrones. Whilst you’re in this part of the isle, pop over to G˙arb which boasts the title of oldest village on Gozo. Roam its narrow streets, observe the traditional houses, take a tour of the church set regally on the village square. Visit the special religious shrine of Ta’ Pinu to which have been attributed several amazing miracles. Then ramble forth to walk your way through a pilgrim’s trail by the life-sized marble statues representing the passion of the Christ. Follow on to the top of the hill for a breath-takingly beautiful view of Gozo.
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Image: Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary © Clive Vella - www.viewingmalta.com
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Image: Passion of Christ at Ta’ Pinu © IMPACT PR Image: Dwejra © Fabrizio Novali - www.viewingmalta.com
Image: Wied il-G˙asri © IMPACT PR
GOZO EVENTS DURING NOVEMBER 1-17 Festival Mediterranea 2012 – 11th Edition. A series of lectures, site visits and concerts with the participation of local and foreign artists. Various venues. www.mediterranea.com.mt 2-3
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Feast of St. Coronato Martyr. Village feast including religious and social activities in the square and main streets of Nadur. www.nadurparish.com
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Feast of St. Adeodato Martyr. Village feast including religious and social activities in the square and main streets of Sannat. www.sannatparish.com
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Feast of St. Andrew Martyr. Village feast including religious and social activities in the square and main streets of Għajnsielem. www.ghajnsielem.com
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Concert by La Stella Brass Ensemble & Soloists. Aula Mgr. Giuseppe Farrugia, St. George’s Basilica, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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On the Trail of Giuseppe Calì. Onsite lecture on the famous artist. Astra Theatre, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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Remembrance Day. Commemorative event including a wreath laying ceremony in front of Gozo’s War Memorial. Independence Square, Victoria. www.gozoculture.com
Tipiku 2012. A festival celebrating Gozo’s gastronomical and traditional crafts. Independence Square, Victoria. www.gozo.gov.mt
2-25 Paintings by Domenique Cianco. Banca Giuratale Foyer, Independence Square, Victoria. www.gozoculture.com 3
Annual Band Concert. Live concert by the Leone Philharmonic Band. Aurora Opera House, Victoria. www.leone.org.mt
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Piano Recital by Nicholas McCarthy. Aula Mgr. Giuseppe Farrugia, St. George’s Basilica, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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Society and the Economy on the Hospitalier Island of Malta. Banca Giuratale, Victoria. www.mediterranea.com.mt
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Feast of St. Fortunto Martyr. Village feast including religious and social activities in the square and main streets of Żebbuġ. www.zebbuggozo.com
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Annual Grand Concert with the participation of the La Stella Philarmonic Banda. Astra Theatre, Victoria. www.lastella.com.mt
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Feast of Saint Fortunato Martyr. Village feast including religious and social activities in the square and main streets Xagħra. www.xaghraparish.org
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Ìie˙ in-Nadur. Award honouring distinguished citizens from the village of Nadur. Joseph Tabone Hall, Nadur. www.nadur.gov.mt
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Feast of St. Julian Martyr. Village feast including religious and social activities in the square and main streets of Għajnsielem. www.ghajnsielem.com
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Ìie˙ ix-Xewkija. Award honouring distinguished citizens from the village of Xewkija. Rosa Magro Primary School Hall, Xewkija. www.xewkija.gov.mt
9-18 The Gozo Philathelic Exhibition. Exhibition Hall, Ministry for Gozo, St. Francis Square, Victoria. www.gozo.gov.mt
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PAGE19.pdf
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THE MALTESE ARE VERY PROUD OF THEIR TRADITIONAL BREAD. THEY INCLUDE IT IN EVERY MEAL AND CREATE SPECIAL DELICACIES AROUND ITS CONSUMPTION. BRINGING THE ENJOYMENT OF MALTESE BREAD TO THE FORE IS WHAT NENU – THE ARTISAN BAKER HAS SUCCESSFULLY MANAGED TO DO. BY RESTORING AN OLD RUNDOWN SITE, NENU, AS EVERYBODY CALLS HIM, HAS PUT LIFE BACK INTO BREAD-MAKING EVEN IN THE CITY OF VALLETTA. It is all about authentic Maltese gastronomy, starting from its most basic item – the simple, humble and utterly delicious traditional Ftira. A visit to Nenu’s bakery allows one to experience the bread-making tradition of these islands at close range, even going as far as getting your hands in the action by making a Maltese Ftira yourself. But this bakery is not only about re-living bread-making tradition. It is also about allowing Malta’s bread to take centre-stage as it is shown off in all its varieties and forms. The genuine Maltese bread forms meet with typical Mediterranean fare to offer a splendid opportunity to sample something so utterly delicious, you would want to take a slice of it back home. If you’re lucky, Nenu himself may be overseeing work at The Artisan Bakery, which is today managed by his children as the family business has continued to grow. This is a blessing which allows the traditional baker’s craft to survive down the years and pass on from one generation to the next whilst being applied to modern times with ease and capability. As you will come to realise, bread-making can be a back-breaking job but once you savour that Maltese Ftira you will know it was all well worth the hard work these bakers put into its making. Images © Nenu - The Artisan Baker, Valletta
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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
IF READING AN ENTIRE BOOK ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE ISLANDS OF MALTA AND GOZO SEEMS PROHIBITIVE, IF YOU DON’T HAVE A GUIDE TO EXPLAIN THINGS AROUND THESE ISLANDS’ HISTORY, IF LOCATIONS PERPLEX YOU AND THE SEQUENCE OF MULTIPLE EVENTS CONFUSE YOU… YOU ARE IN NEED OF SOME TIME DEDICATED TO THE MALTA EXPERIENCE.
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MAL MAL TA&GOZO TA&GOZ 20 l 21
D A Y B Y D A Y
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Images © The Malta Experience - The Audio Visual Spectacular
Located in the capital city of Valletta, The Malta Experience is an entertaining visual commentary that encapsulates 7000 years of Malta’s history down the centuries. Presented in a purpose-built auditorium that is comfortable and fully equipped with all necessary amenities, The Malta Experience is available in 15 different world languages and this allows this exhilarating audio-visual attraction to be enjoyed by a wide cross-section of foreign visitors who view it. In fact, The Malta Experience has, to date, educated and entertained over four million visitors since its launch in the 1980s and now in its 5th edition. Its resounding success continues with each delighted visitor. The Malta Experience is screened within an amazingly suggestive backdrop which is an immense and prominent landmark in lower Valletta – the Mediterranean Conference Centre, alias the Knights of St John’s’ former Sacra Infermeria, with its huge hallways that once served as an acclaimed hospital. Backed by state-of-the-art technology, the multi-award winning audio visual extravaganza takes viewers back to the shrouds of history, through the various exciting moments of vivid island history. Pre-history and archaeological remains, marauding invaders and changes to the country, valiant conquerors and proud memories, wars with the plight of the locals, sieges marked as heroic by history, knights in armour, colonial occupation…. Experience what each era left behind, see the riches, the losses, the conquests, the changes unfolding through time. All are encapsulated in this short but intensely vivid documentary that is not to be missed. It is literally history in a nutshell. The venue is open every day except on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. For more information, visit www.themaltaexperience.com.
Images © IMPACT PR
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