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25/04/2014
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3600 BC
750 BC
The Temple Builders Die Tempelbauer Les constructeurs des temples I costruttori di Templi
218 BC The Romans Römer Les Romains I Romani
The Phoenicians Die Phönizier Les Phéniciens I Fenici
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MILESTONES MEILENSTEINE ÉTAPE IMPORTANTE PIETRA MILIARE
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60 AD
870 AD
Christianity Christentum Le Christianisme Il Cristianesimo
1090 AD
The Arabs Die Araber Les Arabes Gli Arabi
The Norman Conquest Die normannische Eroberung La conquête normande La Conquista normanna
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1565 AD
1530 AD
1798 AD
The Great Siege Die Große Belagerung Le Grand Siège Il Grande Assedio
The Knights of St. John Die Johanniterritter Les Chevaliers de St. Jean I Cavalieri di San Giovanni
1800 AD
1974 AD
Republic Republik La république La Repubblica
* Image:Heritage Malta • Bild: Heritage Malta • Image:Heritage Malta • Foto:Heritage Malta
The French period Die französische Periode La période française Il periodo francese
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Arrival of the British Ankunft der Briten L’arrivée des anglais L’arrivo degli inglesi
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1940 AD
World War II Zweiter Weltkrieg La deuxième guerre mondiale La Seconda Guerra Mondiale
2004 AD
EU Accession EU-Mitgliedschaft L’accès à l’UE L’accesso all’UE
1964 AD
Independence Unabhängigkeit L’indépendance L’Indipendenza
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Heritage Malta’s Great Siege 1565-2015 Exhibition This year, Malta commemorates the 450th anniversary of the historic Great Siege when Malta was overwhelmed with over 60,000 Ottoman men at arms against what it seemed to be a hapless defendant force of around 9,000 fighting man, 7,000 of which Maltese men. Heritage Malta has for these past two years been working on creating a grand exhibition to commemorate this heroic defence in the face of adversity. Many Maltese know the principle facts: Malta was ruled by the Order of St John, the Turks attacked Malta, many died on both sides and ultimately….. the Maltese and the Knights won the siege. These salient points, although basically true still fall short of defining and actually giving the correct historical weight to the tumultuous event which gave not just a new direction to Malta and the Maltese together with the Order of St John but also a spite of courage to Europe. Many do not even know exactly who these Knights were in the first place. At the time, the old continent was not just under the threat of Ottoman invasion but was also divided and at war within itself between countries supporting and upholding Papal supremacy and the various Protestant states. These ‘internal’ religious matters got the limelight and many European states slacked in defensive strategies against Ottoman expansion in Eastern Europe. The Ottoman strategy now shifted to attack Europe from the South, using Malta as a platform with the ultimate goal being Rome. Thus, the lifting of the Great Siege of Malta was the first good news to Europe, be it roman Catholic or Protestant after practically a century so much so that even Queen Elizabeth of England rejoiced to the news and ordered prayers and church bell ringing in thanksgiving to God for halting Ottoman expansion into Europe. Heritage Malta has thus saw it fit to include in the early stages a contextual background to the siege beginning with the inception of the Order of St John, the events occurring in Europe and in Turkey and North Africa, rulers and powers and not the least what was happening in Malta and the Maltese. Knowing the story and events is one thing. What to look for and to display in such a historic exhibition is another. As a first step, historic research was embarked upon keeping in mind that what the Curatorial team already knew from Primary and Secondary sources was not enough or had to be substantiated. In this matter, Heritage Malta Curators were also admirably assisted by other Maltese historians, archivists and librarians in Malta’s various archives.
Image: L’Iisle Adame © Heritage Malta
Image: La Vallette © Heritage Malta
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Image: King Charles © Heritage Malta
Image: Sulejman © Heritage Malta
Heritage Malta Curators have identified well over 150 historic items or groups of items for display. Some historic items were obvious: Grand Master’s Jean de Valette’s four armour components and the Ottoman Spahi armour both from the Palace Armoury were a must. However, these items and other similar in the National collections would not tell the full story. The Maltese archives, be them the Order’s, Notary and other historic institutions equally provided Primary sources of information and display material such the spine chilling appointments by Grand Master de Valette preserved at the National Library of the replacements Governors for Fort St Elmo during the first month of the siege, soon to be replaced after being killed defending what was known to be doomed. Other Maltese church and private museums namely the Cathedral Museum, Mdina have equally provided historic and interesting artefacts. Still, Heritage Malta Curators were not satisfied with just the Maltese historic artefacts and archival material since of their knowledge of scores of historic related items and archival material in foreign museums and archives. To this end, contacts were made with several museums and archives around Europe with many positive results albeit some disappointments. The Kremlin Museum will be lending Grand Master’s L’isle Adam’s eight pointed cross. From Leeds Royal Armouries, several components of decorated armour pieces are to be amalgamated for the first time after well over 200 years with their counterpart components from the Palace Armoury. Palazzo Venezia and the Order of St John both at Rome will be lending also historic items. Greenwich Maritime Museum will be lending two important paintings, one after Perez d’Aleccio documenting a now partly lost fresco painting at the palace, Valletta. From the Kunsthistorische Museum of Vienna amongst other items, the armour of Ascanio della Ciornia, leader of the Gran Soccorso will be displayed. From the Order’s museum at Clerkenwell, London, de Valette Rock Crystal Cross a gift from the Pope after the Siege will together with other items be brought over. The exhibition, under the Patronage of HE, the President of Malta will take over several rooms in the palace with the Throne room being the set scene of the siege itself with the Perez d’Aleccio frescoes as part of the display, which will here take the form of an immersive display.
Image: Fragment of St. Anne’s Carrack © Heritage Malta
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
Malta International Arts Festival 2015 For a decade now, the Malta International Arts Festival has been delighting audiences with its mix of the finest cultural performers the world has to offer. From virtuoso musicians to Shakespearean drama, stunning visual installations, to breathtaking dance, each year the Malta International Arts Festival has strived to enrich the local cultural calendar with a host of must-see events. The Festival has also continuously championed the best that the local arts scene has to offer, providing Maltese artists, both established and emerging, a dynamic platform to showcase their art and engage with broader audiences. Running from the 10th of July to the 3rd of August, most of these events will be held in some of the island’s most prestigious historical venues, such as Pjazza Teatru Rjal, Argotti Gardens, Fort St Elmo and the recently renovated Valletta City Gate. The programme was put together by an artistic committee, all of whom are artists themselves, led by the Malta International Arts Festival Artistic Director Dr Michelle Castelletti, together with composer Ruben Zahra, choreographer Francesca Tranter, and Riccardo Carbutti, cultural project manager from Italy. Among this year’s classical highlights are world-renowned classical pianist and Debussy specialist Noriko Ogawa from Japan, as well as Talich Quartet – one of the world’s finest string quartets, internationally-recognized as torchbearers for Czech musical tradition across the globe. Led by our very own Marcelline Agius (leader of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra) with pianist Joanne Camilleri, Bar-to-Bar Quintet will be performing an energetic Shostakovich and Bartók at the Palace Courtyard.
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 link to the online version of this monthly magazine in your email. Simply e-mail us on: info@impactpr.com.mt
Image: © ÛfinMalta
MAL MAL TA&GOZO TA&GOZ 14 l 15
Image: STOMP
En Chordais and Constantinople join forces to recreate a colourful musical journey in tribute of Marco Polo; EU-funded Meeting the Odyssey - a social and artistic collaborative project set on the ship named Hoppet that set sail in the Baltic in 2014 in a journey of discovery through constantly changing artistic landscapes and cultural attitudes, developing synergies across Europe; The multi award-winning phenomenon STOMP from the UK makes its debut appearance in Malta at the Festival. Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company will be performing their original piece If At All, a moving theatrical event in figurative and abstract dance. The newly-launched national ÛfinMalta Dance Company will be creating a contemporary adaptation of Mallarmé’s 1876 L’Après-midi d’un Faune, with their original production choreographed by Mavin Khoo. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra will be one of the celebrations of the festival with a programme that is open air and free for the public at St George’s Square, Valletta on July 26th. One of the strongest statements of the festival will be the opening night with Pendulum Choir - an original choral piece for 9 a cappella voices and 18 hydraulic jacks, creating a living, sonorous body at the entrance of Valletta. For more information and the latest updates on all the Festival’s events visit www.maltaartsfestival.org The Malta International Arts Festival is organised by Arts Council Malta under the Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government, in collaboration with European Capital of Culture 2018 and with the support of the Valletta Local Council, TVM, MSV Life, Grand Hotel and The Phoenicia Hotel.
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Local Councils Events in July
Celebrating Tradition, Folklore and Culture 17th – 19th Sliema Arts Festival Sliema Promenade and nearby Beaches. Friday 18:00 – 01:00, Saturday 10:00 -13:00, Sunday 10:00 – 23:00 This year's festival will feature 5 areas of Music & Art. Area 1: Street & Urban Art on the Promenade, Food & Drink Stalls Area 2: The Gardens will include the Main Stage, Kind's play area, Short Film Projections, Sculptures, Art & Photography Exhibitions Area 3: Alternative Rock and Acoustic Stages, hosted by No Sweat Productions Area 4: Surfers Paradise, Chill out by day and party by night, hosted by Duncan F & Alex Thomson Area 5: Reggae Pon Di Beach, hosted by JUULS Café. Over 20 international and many more local street/urban artists will be transforming Sliema's unique promenade and gardens into a melting pot of art. Conscious of the parking problems in Sliema, for this year's edition we have teamed up with Midi plc and SIS Ltd, operators of the Tigne' Point Car park, who will be offering a Free Park & Ride service from and to the Festival Area. For only €2 (unlimited), you may park your vehicle at this car park from Friday to Sunday from 20:00 - 01:00.
30th July – 2nd August Mellie˙a Nights 2015 - In aid of Malta Community Chest Fund Mellie˙a Main Squares The eighth edition of the Mellieħa Nights, organized by the Mellieħa Local Council. This activity has become a much-sought after event, which attracts thousands of people to Mellieħa, where locals and tourists alike enjoy the best elements of the Mellieħa community. This event has its place set in the Maltese cultural calendar, and it being supported by the Malta Tourism Authority and the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government. During these evenings a varied programme of events will be taking place in Mellieħa, varying from arts, music, culture, sports and food. Other attractions include top local artists and musicians, as well as kids’ animations, all of which will be spread on three different stages which will be set up along the Mellieħa streets. The Mellieħa restaurants will also be offering a unique gastronomic experience by preparing various menus especially for this occasion. The main roads will be set up with tables and chairs al fresco for their patrons to enjoy these lovely nights without missing on the entertainment which will be offered. Everyone is invited to attend for this annual event in Mellieħa during these four nights. These are four nights which will be transformed into one big celebration for all the family, where Mellieħa will showcase its best elements for one and all.
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Image: Malta Jazz Festival © www.viewingmalta.com
Celebrating 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations between the Republics of Malta and Korea
As part of the celebrations commemorating the 50th Anniversary since the Republic of Malta and the Republic of Korea established mutual diplomatic relations a unique event is scheduled at the Mediterranean Conference Centre on Sunday July 5th at 19:30 hours. The world famous Korean National Contemporary Dance Company and Ûfin Malta, Malta's National Dance Company will thread the boards in a truly extraordinary double bill. Combining the art of movement and modern orientalism, Bul-Ssang (which means 'Pity!') explores the special border which separates the present from the past when it affects religion and spirituality. Adopting a mixture of 'total theatre' comprising a combination of choreographed movement, installation art, colourful costumes, brilliant lighting, masks and a fusion of eastern and western music it examines the Oriental perception of the Buddha at home and abroad. Unique, thought provoking and relevant this famous choreography has a beauty and sophistication that will undoubtedly lead the audience to a level of spirituality and fantasy. Using the Stabat Mater, a 13th century hymn to St Mary, Ûfin Malta's piece led by its artistic director Mavin Khoo, takes its white clad dancers beyond the twin pillars of sorrow and gratification. The wonderful music by the Maltese born Girolamo Abos fits this wonderful journey in search of spiritual ecstasy. Tickets are available online : www.mcc.com Booking Office telephone: 2559 5750
Image: Richard Bona
3 Reasons Why You Should Not Use A Bank For Investment Advise When people first move to Malta one of the first things they usually organise is opening a bank account on the island. Investment or pension advice is often much lower down the list of priorities. However when they come to review these areas as they are already using a local bank, their first port of call is naturally that bank. However, I strongly believe that banks cannot offer three of the most important aspects that are needed to provide best advice: 1) Independent Advice. Most banks can only offer their own products. Whereas an independent adviser has no restrictions. A good comparison is that of a butcher and doctor. Ask a butcher about what you should eat and his recommendation is likely to include lots of meat. Instead ask a doctor and you will benefit from unbiased advice on what constitutes a healthy diet. 2) Personal Service. Who still has a relationship with their bank manager? Banks have moved away from personal service in favour of communicating with their customers via call centres. With a bank it is highly unlikely you will speak to the same adviser over an extended period. Bank staff regularly leave, change roles or are simply assigned to a new set of customers. A good financial adviser can offer you an old fashioned service where you always deal with the same people. 3) Expat Expertise. As an expat your tax treatment is very different to that of someone who is Malta domiciled. It therefore makes sense that your finances need to be approached differently too. In my experience bank advisers do not realise this – they simply do not know the rules for expats well enough. For Advice About Your Circumstances: Call Michael Lavin on 2131 6298 or email mlavin@hollingsworth-int.com
Michael Lavin Expat Financial Expert
Hollingsworth International Financial Services Ltd is licensed by the Malta Financial Services Authority to provide investment services under the Investment Services Act, 1994. Enrolled Insurance Broker under article 13 of the Insurance Intermediaries Act, (Cap. 487). Registration Number C32457
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Malta Jazz Festival 2015 Image: Malta Jazz Festival © www.viewingmalta.com
Celebrating 25 years 16 - 19 July
For its 25th anniversary, the Malta Jazz Festival will take place with an extra day being the Commonwealth Jazz Day supported by CHOGM Malta 2015 and will bring two important artists to the island – saxophonist Soweto Kinch from the UK who intertwines jazz with rap and bassist Richard Bona from Cameroon, who is well established himself in Paris and New York. Malta Jazz Festival artistic director, Sandro Zerafa describes the festival as “The 2015 line-up is a celebration of diversity. Some jazz pushes genre boundaries. Some other jazz keeps its feet firmly planted in the tradition. At the Malta Jazz Festival we honour this diversity through a program full of contrasting outfits. Jazz bridges the gap between the popular and the savant and the 2015 line-up should appeal to the layman and the erudite jazz buff as well.” This year’s festival features a number of Grammy award winners, amongst whom legendary Cuban pianist and 5 time Grammy award winner, Chucho Valdes who will perform for the first time at Ta’ Liesse with Irakere 40, a tribute to the cult band founded in 1973 by Chucho himself. Other Grammy winners are Danilo Perez, John Patitucci and Brian Blade, known collectively as ‘Children of the Light’ and best known for their work as part of the Wayne Shorter quartet. They are considered as one of the main highlights this year. Other names include Dave Holland will team up with Chris Potter, Kurt Elling, Joe Cohn. An added novelty is the first edition of “The Fringe” Youth Jazz Ensemble, which is part of the Jazz on the Fringe initiative, to create networks with the international jazz scene. The young ensemble will perform for the first time under the direction of saxophone player Gabriele Comeglio, one of the most renowned musical arrangers in Italy and pianist/arranger Claudio Angeleri, director of the Centro Didattico Produzione Musica (CDPM). Both will be teaching at the Summer Jazz Camp. Tickets for the Malta Jazz Festival 2015 are at €30 for a single-day ticket (seated), €75 for a 3-day block ticket (seated) or €90 for a 3-day block ticket + Commonwealth Jazz night (seated). Standing single-day tickets are also available for €20 (free seating available), a 3-day block ticket (standing) can be bought for €40 (free seating available) and a 3 day-block ticket + Commonwealth Jazz night (standing) for €50 (free seating available). The Malta Jazz Festival is organised by Arts Council Malta and supported by CHOGM Malta 2015, Valletta 2018 Foundation, Phoenicia Hotel, Cyberpass, MTA and TVM. For the full programme and line-ups visit maltajazzfestival.org
Image: David Binney
Image: Richard Bona
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ÓobΩ biΩ-Ûejt
Maltese bread, Mediterranean tomatoes, olive oil. These three ingredients create one of Malta’s simplest yet tastiest culinary relishes – ÓobΩ biΩ-Ûejt. A basic recipe, yet one which is strongly favoured not only as a snack but also as a lunch-box staple, a seaside picnic lunch, a dinner starter…. You name it! ÓobΩ biΩ-Ωejt is typically eaten with a miscellany of foods such as tuna, olives, capers, onions, Bigilla (traditional broad bean paste), peppered or plain Ìbejna (traditional cheeselet). It brings together Malta’s traditional ÓobΩa – the national bread with its soft interior and hard crunchy crust. The tomato paste is typically spread on the bread but for those who prefer something more natural, a juicy tomato, sliced down the middle and pressed hard onto the bread will create a smearing of tomato pulp that, when coupled with some seasoning and olive oil, makes a deliciously nutritious food. An alternative to the bread is the Ftira which is a flattened loaf similar to the Italian Focaccia but without any flavouring. The Ftira is practically all crust but softer than the crust of a loaf of bread and the experience of a Ftira biΩ-Ûejt is totally different from the ÓobΩ BiΩ-Ûejt. The Ftira allows a better inclusion of ingredients within so that the meal becomes somewhat wholesomer and richer. So next time you see a Maltese family eating sandwiches at the beach – don’t assume they are eating ham and cheese sandwiches – they will probably be eating what tastes best by the sea – Maltese ÓobΩ biΩ-Ûejt!
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