JUNE/JULY 2015 €3 The official visitors’ guide of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association
A SHOWCASE OF MALTA
TRADITIONS Meet three festa protagonists CUISINE Ice-cream – a centuries-old local tradition
SUMMER FESTIVALS … not to be missed
BEACHES The islands’ top bathing spots
THINGS TO DO
A three-day itinerary to make the most of your stay
your guide to events | fashion | eating & drinking | shopping
June & July 2015 EDITOR Isabel Depasquale PUBLISHERS Content House Group ADVERTISING Advertising Sales Manager Matthew Spiteri Advertising Sales Executive Gaynor Farrugia Degabriele Advertising Sales Coordinators Lindsey Ciantar Marvic Cutajar
Photo: Camilla Morandi - viewingmalta.com
INSIDE
PRINTERS Progress Press Ltd Art Direction & Design Box Design – T: +356 9949 1418
page 23
12 Events
A list of the major events taking place in the months of June and July.
15 Cover Story
Time to hit the beach – Nine beaches across Malta and Gozo have been granted the coveted Blue Flag status this year – an international eco-label certifying clean and safe waters. Martina Said highlights each one, as well as some off-the-beaten-track gems.
Photography Malta Tourism Authority, Heritage Malta
28 Culture
Summer festivals – The islands’ cultural calendar of events is bursting at its seams this summer. We focus on three musical festivals that are not to be missed – Malta International Arts Festival, Malta Jazz Festival and Għanafest.
Guide Me is published every two months in Malta. The magazine is the official visitors’ guide of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association. The publication is distributed free of charge in the individual rooms of three, four and five star hotels. Guide Me is also distributed for free from MTA offices in Malta and Gozo and at the La Valette Club within the Malta International Airport (MIA). It is also sold at leading newsagents in Malta and Gozo, including those at The Valletta Waterfront and at MIA.
23 Traditions
It’s festa time – The festa season is in full swing. Sarah Micallef meets three local feast enthusiasts who participate actively to make the annual village celebration one to remember every year.
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Cover picture: Winner of five Grammys and three Latin Grammys, the Cuban pianist, composer, arranger and bandleader Chucho Valdés will be playing at The Malta Jazz Festival on Saturday 18th July.
Editorial opinions expressed in Guide Me are not necessarily those of the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association or of Content House Group and both organisations do not accept responsibility for editorial or advertising content. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited.
INSIDE
June & July 2015 37 Things to do
An unforgettable weekend in Malta – Make the most of your visit to Malta and Gozo, and follow Martina Said’s weekend itinerary.
51 News
The opening of the newly restored Fort St Elmo, the celebration of the 450th anniversary of The Great Siege of Malta and more. Sarah Micallef shines a light on the news items that have caught her attention over the past few weeks.
65 Fashion
Hit the beach in style – Sarah Micallef picks her choice of top beachwear trends this summer.
76 Cuisine
The ice story – Unknowingly to many, the islanders have been savouring icecream for centuries. Jo Caruana meets food writer Matty Cremona who talks her through the history of this delightful treat in Malta.
93 Nightlife
Non-stop summer nights – Need a helping hand to organise your summer nights in Malta? Jo Caruana picks the must-attend events happening after the sun goes down. 8
FOREWORD
Welcome to the Maltese islands! ISSUE
61 JUNE/JULY 2015
Golden Bay - Photo: viewingmalta.com
T
he summer months in the Maltese islands are all about outdoor living. When we’re not at work, most of us are either lounging at the beach or poolside, while in the evening we often join friends at some activity or other under the stars. The calendar of events is in fact jam-packed in summer and in this issue of Guide Me we seek to reveal as many of these events as possible to ensure that you too can immerse yourself in the local summer lifestyle. For a dose of culture and tradition, we suggest you visit a town or village celebrating its annual festa. There are at least two feasts being celebrated every
weekend during the months of June and July. Turn to page 23 to find out what to expect. And for a run-through of the events taking place after the sun sets read our ‘Nightlife’ section on page 93. In our ‘Cover Story’ that starts on page 15, we shed light on the islands’ most idyllic beaches – whether you prefer sand between your toes or a rocky beach, and whether you are after shallow waters or deep, you should be able to select a swimming spot that hits the mark. This issue features many other good reads. From Martina Said’s recommended three-day itinerary that provides a snapshot of the islands’ top sights and
best things to do (see page 37) to our pick of the ‘newsy’ items relevant to visitors (see page 51) and from an overview of the top summer fashion trends (see page 65) to an insight into the history of ice-cream making in Malta (read page 76), we hope to keep you good company during your stay. Enjoy your visit!
Isabel Depasquale EDITOR
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2015 JUNE 04-07 June Butterflies are Free – FM Theatre Productions presents Butterflies are Free by Leonard Gersche, a bittersweet romantic comedy in which young Don Baker, hero of his mother’s children’s book series ‘Donny Dark’, has been blind since birth. Don’s overprotective mother follows his every move, but he finally decides to move to his own apartment in Manhattan and pursue his songwriting ambitions. When she meets his neighbour, actress Jill, Mrs Baker’s controlling instincts go into overdrive with hilariously touching results. Venue: St James Cavalier, Valletta.
05 June Rockastra – Victoria’s La Stella Band will be performing at the third edition of ROCKASTRA in Victoria, Gozo – a spectacular concert of rock music featuring the La Stella Band and some of the islands’ leading local singers. The performance will begin at 9pm. Entrance is free.
07 June Sette Giugno – Malta commemorates the tragic events of 7th June, 1919, (marked by a public holiday) known as the ‘Sette Giugno’, in remembrance of the riots that year, when the Maltese people revolted against the British administration and demanded some form of representative government for the island. A commemorative ceremony will be held at St George’s Square in Valletta. www.maltaculture.com
07, 14, 21 June
12-14 June
In Guardia Parade – The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays an authentic event that took place regularly inside important military fortifications in Malta and Gozo. During the re-enactment, the soldiers and knights of the fort’s garrison – some 55 re-enactors – are kitted-out in their finest uniforms and perform a military drill demonstrating to the Grand Bailiff the garrison’s state of readiness in the event of a military threat. The show starts at 11am and lasts 45 minutes. Venue: Fort St Elmo, Valletta. www.visitmalta.com
Gћanafest – This annual folklore event, taking place at Argotti Gardens in Floriana, offers a varied programme of foreign and local acts. Bands from Africa, India and Scotland, among other countries, are expected to perform, with anticipated heartfelt, soulful and at times comical traditional gћana (local folk singing) performances too. www.maltafolkmusicfestival.org
10 June-13 July Victoria International Arts Festival – The festival offers five weeks of uninterrupted, high-powered musical activity and brings to Gozo over 600 musicians from 17 different countries. The performances, which are mainly of a classical nature, feature soloists, duos/ trios/quartets, chamber ensembles of varying combinations, big bands, choirs and full symphony orchestras. Concerts will be performed in different venues all over Victoria, Gozo, including St George's Basilica, Aula Mgr Giuseppe Farrugia, Il-Ħaġar Museum, St Augustine Church, the Bishop's Curia, St Francis Church and others. All concerts are free of charge. www.viaf.org.mt
12 June Massimo Ranieri – The highly popular Italian singer Massimo Ranieri will be performing live in concert on the stage of the Republic Hall at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta. www.mcc.com.mt
15-21 June Valletta Film Festival – Valletta will be hosting its first international feature film festival. For seven days, the capital city will be filled with film, music and creativity. The event will consist of an official competition (feature films, documentaries and shorts, and four other sections). In total around 45 feature films will be screened at five of the city’s most attractive locations. Attendees will have the opportunity to see and hear established and upcoming filmmakers present and discuss their films. www.vallettafilmfestival.com
27 June-08 July Trophée Bailli de Souffren – This classic yacht race covers 600 miles from Saint-Tropez to the Grand Harbour marina in Malta. This event highlights an old connection that exists between Malta and France, when back in 1748, cruises by French Admiral Pierre André de Suffren were organised with the galleys of the Order of the Knights of St John. The Mediterranean’s most beautiful yacht race is also the longest race for classic yachts run over three legs – Leg 1: Saint-Tropez to Porto Rotondo, Sardinia (193nm), Leg 2: Porto Rotondo, Sardinia to Trapani, Sicily (230nm) and Leg 3: Trapani, Sicily to Grand Harbour, Malta (169nm). www.cnmarinas. com/ghm/tropheebaillidesuffren
For the full online Malta Calendar of Events please go to: www.visitmalta.com/events-calendar
29 June L-Imnarja – This one of the oldest feasts celebrated in Malta and Gozo, commemorating St Peter and St Paul. This feast is celebrated in Buskett Gardens on the eve of the feast day. During the late afternoon hours, horse and donkey races are held in a country lane situated just below Mdina. www.maltaculture.com
JULY 05, 12 July In Guardia Parade – The In Guardia Parade is a re-enactment that portrays an authentic event that took place regularly inside important military fortifications in Malta and Gozo. During the re-enactment, the soldiers and knights of the fort’s garrison – some 55 re-enactors – are kitted-out in their finest uniforms and perform a military drill demonstrating to the Grand Bailiff the garrison’s state of readiness in the event of a military threat. The show starts at 11am and lasts 45 minutes. Venue: Fort St Elmo, Valletta. www.visitmalta.com
07 July Isle of MTV Malta Special – The annual Isle of MTV music event in Malta is an MTV Networks International (MTVNI) production. A world class line up of artists will play in a free live concert on the Granaries in Floriana in front of a crowd which annually tops the 50,000 mark. Previous performers have included Lady Gaga, Black Eyed Peas, N*E*R*D, One Republic, Maroon 5, Jesse J, Nicole Scherzinger and Enrique Inglesias. www.isleofmtv.com
10 July- 03 August Malta International Arts Festival – This annual showcase of top quality events sees local and overseas artists
and performers side by side in a unique collaboration. It is a bonanza of performance, music and dance, and offers something from almost all artistic forms. www.maltaartsfestival.org
16-19 July Malta Jazz Festival – At this festival, contemporary music comes together with a sense of history, setting the backdrop for high-calibre performances which delight jazz aficionados and lay persons alike. Venue: Ta’ Liesse, Valletta. www.maltajazzfestival.org
17-31 July Violin and Friends International Music Festival – This event, which will take place in Valletta, offers a professional and expandable platform from baroque to new music and showcases its origins and pioneers, supporting young musicians by making it possible for them to present their output to a wider audience. www.vfimf.com
23-31 July Romeo & Juliet – MADC is staging its annual play by William Shakespeare in the idyllic surroundings of San Anton Gardens. Director Luke Farrugia sets out to reveal the multifaceted nature of this timeless story, showing its eternity – it could happen to anyone at any time. Venue: San Anton Gardens, Attard. www.madc.com.mt
24 July-02 August Farsons Beer Festival – This festival is truly a celebration of the best beers on the island and a showcase of the island’s best line-up of musicians and artists. Organised at Ta’ Qali Park, the festival starts at 8pm every night. Entrance is free of charge and parking is available in the vast parking area outside the park.
25 July Magic in the Sky 2015 – The annual pyro-musical show is held on the eve of the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Żurrieq. Organised by the Mount Carmel Fireworks Factory, the show is renowned for its colourful choreography and is a fixed annual appointment for all fireworks enthusiasts in Malta. Now in its eighth edition, the show will once again feature the Hanabi Towers: two high-rise vertical firing posts which enable the creation of distinctive and spectacular pyrotechnic effects. Contact: M: 9947 6632 or E: magicintheskyinfo@gmail.com.
31 July Changing of the Guards – This ceremony is symbolic of the formal handing over of responsibility from one guard to another at the Presidential Palace in Valletta. The Armed Forces of Malta will be holding the Changing of the Palace Guard Ceremony at St George’s Square, Valletta at 10am. The Guard, led by the AFM Band, will initiate the ceremony from Republic Street in the vicinity of Palazzo Ferreria and proceed towards St George’s Square through Republic Street.
COVER STORY
time to hit the
beach
From rugged to sloping rocky coastlines and from beige to gold and even red sand varieties, there is no shortage of stunning beaches to enjoy on the Maltese islands. Martina Said highlights the most popular ones granted Blue Flag status.
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay - Photo: Clive Vella - viewingmalta.com
It is of no coincidence that locals and visitors flock to the islands’ beaches come summer – the clean and clear waters, ample facilities and good upkeep at large are merely a few of the factors that continue to attract avid swimmers and beach-goers year after year. A recent report by the European Union on the quality of bathing waters revealed that Malta scored the highest among EU member states for the excellent quality of its waters. Testament to this is the retention of Blue Flag status by a number of beaches – a total of nine this year, a step up from last year’s eight. Every year, the Blue Flag Programme, run by the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE), rewards beaches, harbours and
marinas across the globe that prove to be clean, safe and respectful of the environment. The programme lays out a number of criteria that need to be satisfied before granting status to a beach and is valid for one year. Keep reading for the top beaches on the islands that boast Blue Flag Status.
The top nine First up is Għadira Bay, also called Mellieħa Bay, which is the largest beach on the island, sheltered between two headlands in the north. It is especially popular with families due to its clean, shallow waters and low-gradient sloping sand. Għadira Bay is also the one with the most facilities and services on the islands, including
restaurants, areas designated for water sports, lifeguards, a small first aid clinic, two beach supervisors, a mobile toilet, wheelchair access and people in charge of beach maintenance, making it the most accessible and well-equipped. Head to Aquaventure based at Mellieha Bay Hotel all year round – also at the Luna Holiday Complex during summer – to secure a spot of diving with this well-established company. This diving centre offers all levels of PADI training and a range of daily dive trips for all experience levels, and stocks a full range of equipment for hire. It would be best to visit their site (www.aquaventuremalta. com) to find out more. ➜ 15
COVER STORY
Golden Bay - Photo: viewingmalta.com
Not too far away from Mellieħa in the north-western part of the island is Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, which is walking distance from Golden Bay, separated only by a headland. Għajn Tuffieħa differs from its twin in that it is a more secluded bay, accessible only through a long flight of steps from the main road or a network of paths winding along the clay slopes. Take a minute to stand at the top of the stairs and absorb the stunning view in front of you – it truly is the stuff of postcards, and although somewhat isolated, this beach has most amenities including a parking area on street level, lifeguards and a small restaurant with toilet and shower facilities. Buġibba and Qawra, both popular seaside resorts with plenty to offer, each boast a beach granted Blue Flag status. Buġibba Perched Beach lies along the promenade
and was originally a linear rocky shore with a sharp surface that got transformed into a sandy bay with artificial sand. It was planned in such a way so as to reverse it to its original state should the need arise. A number of ladders and bridges were added to improve accessibility into and out of the water, and full management of the beach takes place between June and September. Qawra Point, on the other hand, located just before the start of the Buġibba promenade (in the vicinity of the National Aquarium), is another favourite spot for families. Here you’ll find a pocket of coarse sand along a rocky coast, and if you don’t mind walking along rough rock, keep heading to the very tip of the coast away from larger crowds. Keen divers should also visit a sunken statue of Christ in this area, referred to as Kristu tal-Baħħara.
Paradise Bay Resort Hotel
Ramla l-Ħamra Bay - Photo: viewingmalta.com
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True to its name, Paradise Bay Hotel Beach in Ċirkewwa, a stone’s throw away from where the Gozo ferry operates a daily service to the sister island, is also worth a visit, being the first private beach to obtain Blue Flag status. Head to Island’s Edge Lido at the hotel for beautiful views of Gozo and Comino, where complimentary sun loungers and umbrellas are available for patrons and guests can indulge in a delicious meal prepared by the lido’s bistro. In its vicinity is Paradise Bay, another sandy beach which is separate from the hotel and boasts crystal-clear waters and a good range of amenities. The latter beach attracts thousands of visitors each year for its sheer natural beauty. Among the numerous sites worthy of a visit in Gozo is Ramla l-Ħamra, the only beach there to enjoy Blue Flag status, although certainly not the only one worth discovering. The bay derives its name from its characteristically reddish sand and is surrounded by slopes and wild foliage. An old statue of Our Lady was erected in the middle of the bay in 1881 and still stands today. Those up for a little adventure should visit Calypso Cave, on the cliffs on the western side of the beach which offer stunning views. ➜
COVER STORY
Off the beaten track
Għar Lapsi - Photo: viewingmalta.com
Back to Malta, the eastern side of the island also boasts numerous swimming spots along the long coast from Sliema to St Julian’s. The
St George's Bay - Photo: Rene Rossignaud - viewingmalta.com
areas of Tigné, Exiles and Għar id-Dud are all great for swimming, with the area of Fond Għadir – recognised as a Blue Flag bay this year – among the favourites for its smooth, flat rock and beautiful coastline. Fond Għadir is dotted with now-unused salt pans, often used by beach-goers for sunbathing. The entire coastline of the Westin Dragonara Resort in St Julian’s was also bestowed with Blue Flag recognition for the first time this year. The two private rocky beaches are open to hotel guests only and incorporate the Med Bar as well as the Reef Club. ➜
The more popular beaches are the ones you’ll likely hear a lot about, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t hidden gems with lots to offer. Għar Lapsi – located just outside Siġġiewi – is one such place, and offers a great cave dive that is ideal for beginners. Equally impressive is St Peter’s Pool, at the tip of Delimara point in the south-west of Malta. It is a beautiful, natural swimming pool with clear waters and ladders to access the sea, although adventurous swimmers could jump off the cliffs a few metres up. Be sure to take supplies with you here as due to its remote location it is devoid of any nearby shops, restaurants or facilities. Another such location is Armier Bay up north – it consists of two beaches, the larger one being Armier and the smaller one aptly called Little Armier. At the latter you’ll find Baia Beach Club, which encompasses all the great aspects of a seaside resort. Designed around a blue and white theme, it includes a beach club with beachside service, a cocktail bar, luxury beach furniture as well as a restaurant operated by a team of Italian chefs who excel in fresh fish dishes that change according to the fisherman’s daily catch. Head to the beach club on Saturday mornings for yoga classes using stand up paddle boards, or visit an on-site beautician for massages and other beauty treatments, by appointment. Be sure to book ahead, and it would be best to visit the website for regular updates and packages (www.baiabeachclub.com).
COVER STORY Last but certainly not least is St George’s Bay in St Julian’s, which until recently was poorly kept and used for docking boats. Being a popular area for tourists due to its central location, the beach was given a new lease on life with artificial sand following a number of environmental impact studies carried out on the
Kristu tal-baħħara - Photo: viewingmalta.com Baia Beach Club
area. The management of this beach was taken up by the Malta Tourism Authority and became an instant success both in terms of the numbers of people that
frequent it as well as for its overall improved environmental status. Visitors can make full use of the bar, toilets, showers, nearby amenities and lifeguard services.
TRADITIONS
it'sfesta time
It’s festa season in Malta, with at least a couple of feasts being held every weekend. Traditional village feasts are a riot of colourful lights, band music, noisy firework displays, statues and banners dedicated to the patron saint, and for many, represent the main social event in the village of the year. Sarah Micallef speaks to three protagonists who have strong ties with their festi, and finds out what it is about the magnificent firework displays, brass band music and the statue of the patron saint that has drawn them in since childhood. Siġġiewi feast - Photo: viewingmalta.com
THE STATUE-MAKER Aaron Camilleri Cauchi is a third generation statue-maker commissioned to create papier-mâché sacred statues used to decorate the churches, main streets and squares of Maltese and Gozitan localities during festa week. He has also exported statues to Sicily, Italy, Germany and Australia. Aaron Camilleri Cauchi’s local village feast is in honour of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, celebrated on the second Sunday of July, in Fgura. Aaron considers the festa as a fusion of religion and culture, saying, “the patron saint for whom the parish is dedicated serves as the basis for the village feast, while the cultural aspect makes the picture a complete one. This includes bright fireworks displays, band music, food stalls and festooning the streets with colourful lights, banners and statues related to the patron saint.” The art of papier-mâché statue-making has been inherited from one generation to another in Aaron’s family. “My grandfather, Comm. Agostino Camilleri used to make papier-mâché statues and naturally taught my father Chev. Alfred Camilleri Cauchi. I inherited the technique from
him,” he says. Starting by restoring antique Good Friday statues at the Cathedral Chapter in Victoria, Gozo, 15 years ago, various band clubs and festive decoration societies now commission Aaron to produce statues for their village festa. Going back in time to the craft’s origins, Aaron explains that the use of papier-mâché in figurative sacred art dates back to the 18th century, and was brought to Malta by a Sicilian who settled on the island of Gozo. ➜ Aaron Camilleri Cauchi restoring the highly devoted titular statue of Our Lady of Graces, patron saint of Ħaż-Żabbar (2011)
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TRADITIONS “The first papier-mâché statues that he created were the Good Friday statues found at the Cathedral Chapter in Victoria, which I had the opportunity to restore. Saverio Laferla (1710-1761) learnt the craft from this Sicilian, and is considered to be the first Maltese who has used such a medium to create statues.” For Aaron, the ceremonial highlight of the feast is the moment the titular statue is hoisted out of the church and onto a prominent place in the village square, before it is carried processionally along the village streets. “Locals and tourists turn up in droves to enjoy this unforgettable experience, which is usually accompanied by the roaring cheers of the crowd, pealing of bells from the church’s belfries, festive marches played by local bands and a fireworks display.”
3) Movie Spectacular (201 y Photo: 5ive photograph
THE TRUMPET PLAYER Kevin Abela went from playing the trumpet with St Michael’s Band Club in Żabbar as a child to Principal Trumpet of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, working with high profile artists like Joseph Calleja, Zucchero, Leona Lewis, Ronan Keating and Rebecca Ferguson, as well as playing in his own band, Brass House Unit. Kevin Abela considers the local festa as an integral part of Maltese culture. “The festa tradition has been around for more than a hundred years and gives identity to our country,” he says. Looking at the various elements involved within the local feast, Kevin maintains, “for some, the feast is a sacred week in which they spend time praying at sanctuaries and churches, while for others it means a whole year of voluntary work.” For Kevin, it all started back in 1983, when his father took him to St Michael’s Band Club in Żabbar at the age of five, to learn to play the trumpet. Kevin played the trumpet with the band club for many years, before going professional in 1997. Within that time, he also formed part of the youth committee of the same band club, and was involved in many projects along with some of the best local talent, “from engineers who built machinery and planned projects, artists, and volunteers who organised activities to raise money for these projects to electricians who lit up the streets,” he recalls.
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Describing his experience over the years, Kevin asserts, “the band gave me so much. To start, you get free tuition, and if need be, even an instrument to start learning on. I am so grateful to these people that saw the talent in me and trusted me. The two local bands in Żabbar have produced quite a number of high profile musicians over the years.”
THE FIREWORK-MAKER Patrick Bugeja is a firework-maker with Lourdes Fireworks in Qrendi, whose pyrotechnical creations were the big winners at this year’s Malta International Fireworks Festival. Patrick Bugeja’s village feast is the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, which this year falls on 28th June. Having been involved in firework-making since 1998, he considers his involvement in the feast “part of my daily life”. “What attracted me most about fireworks is that they’re not always the same. Every year you can make different fireworks and every year is a challenge, firstly with yourself,” he says. Mostly interested in pyro musical shows, in which fireworks are coordinated with music, Patrick’s group, Qrendi Lourdes Fireworks has been putting on these shows since 2001. ➜
Patrick Bugeja
Kevin Abela
TRADITIONS
Village feasts in June & July 2015 7th June Corpus Christi, Għasri (Gozo) Our Lady of Fatima, Gwardamanġa St Anthony, Għajnsielem (Gozo) St Joseph, Għaxaq The Annunciation, Tarxien 14th June Our Lady of the Lily, Imqabba St Philip, Żebbuġ The Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana (Gozo) 21st June St Catherine, Żejtun St John the Baptist, Xewkija (Gozo) 28th June Our Lady of Lourdes, Qrendi St George, Qormi St Nicholas, Siġġiewi 29th June (public holiday) St Peter and St Paul, Nadur (Gozo) The Sacred Heart of Mary, Burmarrad
It all started with the local festa, with Patrick maintaining that it was some time in the 1930s that the group began making fireworks. “Year by year, the group has improved a lot, winning the first Pyro Musical Show in 2011, and last month winning the international and local fireworks competitions, organised by the Malta Tourism Authority.” Currently busy preparing for this year’s feast, for which Qrendi Lourdes Fireworks will be putting on a pyro musical show on 27th June, Patrick is looking forward to seeing their hard work materialise. “Every fireworkmaker always looks forward to seeing how good the work he did during the year for his feast will be.”
5th July Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Sliema St Paul, Rabat St Andrew, Luqa The Immaculate Conception, Ħamrun The Visitation of Our Lady, Għarb (Gozo) 12th July Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Gżira Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Fgura Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kerċem (Gozo) The Annunciation, Balzan St Joseph, Kirkop 16th July Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Valletta 19th July Our Lady of Holy Doctrine, Tarxien St Joseph, Kalkara St Sebastian, Qormi St George, Victoria (Gozo) St Joseph, Msida 26th July Feast of Christ the King, Paola Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Balluta Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Żurrieq Our Lady of Sorrows, St Paul’s Bay St Joseph, Żebbuġ St Anne, Marsascala St Margaret, Sannat (Gozo) St Venera, Santa Venera
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CULTURE
Summer festivals
Malta International Arts Festival 2015
For a decade now, the Malta International Arts Festival (MIAF) 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 MIAF has strived to enrich the local cultural calendar with a host of must-see events. Running from 10th July to 3rd August, most of the 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. 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. Led by our very own Marcelline Agius (leader of the
Pendulum choir
Talich Quartet - Photo: Bernard Martinez KCDCs If At All - Photo: Uri Nevo Ò
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STOMP Ò
Malta Philharmonic Orchestra) with pianist Joanne Camilleri, Barto-Bar Quintet will be performing an energetic Shostakovich and Bartók at the Palace Courtyard. Commissioned by the Silk Road Art Music Festival of Hong Kong, the MIAF will be bringing a multidisciplinary performance by two of the most respected ensembles of Mediterranean musical tradition, En Chordais and Constantinople, who join forces to recreate a colourful musical journey in tribute of Marco Polo. The multi award-winning phenomenon STOMP from the UK makes its debut appearance in Malta at the festival. With their blend of rhythm, theatre, comedy and dance, this promises to be a spectacular show. Under the direction of Israeli choreographer Rami Be’er, the muchacclaimed 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 ŻfinMalta 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 26th July.
CULTURE
For more information on the festival and tickets visit www.maltaartsfestival.org
Malta Jazz Festival 2015
The Malta Jazz Festival 2015 will celebrate its 25th year this summer with a varied programme of events that will keep the jazz aficionado and layman enthralled. For this special anniversary, the festival will take place over four days, (16-19 July), instead of the usual three-day line-up. The extra day will be 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 in Paris and New York. This year’s festival features a number of Grammy award winners, amongst whom legendary Cuban pianist and five-time Grammy award winner, Chucho Valdes who
will perform 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. Grammy award winner/bass legend Dave Holland will team up with Chris Potter, one of the major saxophone players today, for a new project featuring the unique guitar voice of Lionel Loueke and drummer extraordinaire Eric Harland. Kurt Elling – another Grammy award winner – is the most celebrated male jazz singer of his generation. Guitarist Joe Cohn, whom Pat Metheny described as “an unbelievable improviser”, is one of the most respected guitar players in New York, whose deep sense of jazz tradition is remarkable. His quartet will feature Japanese pianist Yutaka Shiina. 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 at the Malta Jazz Festival. Furthermore, this year’s programme will also include gigs
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16-19 JU L
One of the strongest statements of the festival will be the opening night with Pendulum Choir – an original choral piece for nine a cappella voices and 18 hydraulic jacks, creating a living, sonorous body at the entrance of Valletta. This multi-award-winning creation will be free (10th July). Experimental and multidisciplinarian, Miguel Chevalier, also comes to Malta with a new commission – Pixels Wave 2015, a generative and interactive virtual reality installation with a giant carpet of moving lights that will fill Republic Street at City Gate, and which will open on 10th July, and remain throughout the festival.
David Binney
Richard Bona
around the island as part of Jazz on the Fringe, free masterclasses held in the Malta Summer Jazz Camp and a competition for young upcoming jazz musicians through the Malta Jazz Contest. Jazz on the Fringe is supported by Valletta 2018. Tickets for the Malta Jazz Festival 2015 are at €30 for a single-day ticket (seated), €75 for a three-day block ticket (seated) or €90 for a three-day block ticket + Commonwealth Jazz night (seated). Standing single-day tickets are also available for €20 (free seating available), a three-day block ticket (standing) can be bought for €40 (free seating available) and a three-day-block ticket + Commonwealth Jazz night (standing) for €50 (free seating available). For more information and tickets visit www.maltajazzfestival.org ➜
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CULTURE
Għanafest
Għanafest, Malta’s own folk music festival, has over the years grown in popularity and in its presentation and diversity. This year’s edition will be quite different from previous editions since it will be supported by the Malta CHOGM Task Force in anticipation of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to be held this November. The music will feature instruments that are associated with Commonwealth countries and which over the years have also gained
considerable popularity. The featured instruments include, among others, the kora, the traditional 21-string West African harp, popular all across the continent, as well as the sitar, an ancient Indian instrument that got its big break in pop music thanks to The Beatles and The Rolling Stones back in the 1960s. Celtic music will be also be represented, while the Maltese għana (local folk singing) will of course feature prominently, with many veteran acts delivering heartfelt, sometimes spontaneous folk songs in different styles. Even the food here is carefully picked to a theme: you are likely to find pastizzi, imqaret and all things traditionally Maltese, making this festival much more than just a series of concerts. Set against the picturesque setting of the Argotti Gardens,
Photo: Darrin Zammit Lupi
and Marsamxett Harbour, with its timeless themes, stirring tunes and rich voices, this is a festival that will impress and move. The festival will be held between 12th and 14th June with doors opening at 6.30pm at Argotti Gardens, Floriana, within walking distance from Valletta. Tickets: €3 per night or €7 for a three-day block ticket available at the door. For more information on the Festival visit www.maltafolkmusicfestival.org
TAKE NOTE
7,000 years of history brought to life
Located in Malta’s capital city, Valletta, housed within what was once the Sacra Infermeria of the Knights of Malta, is The Malta Experience. This audio-visual spectacular is one of the largest attractions in Europe in terms of duration, system and language commentaries. It is also the only show that retraces 7,000 years of Maltese history. The 45-minute presentation can be listened to in one of 17 languages. In a purposely built auditorium, with a panoramic screen, sensational vision and a gripping commentary, The Malta Experience brings 7,000 years of history back to life. Shows are every hour on the hour as follows: Monday to Friday from 11am to 4pm; Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 11am to 2pm. After the show one can also enjoy a tour of the Sacra Infermeria, the old hospital of the Knights of St John. Today this beautiful building is known as the Mediterranean Conference Centre, but you can still step back in time and visualise its revolutionary past on a guided tour, and visit the
longest ward in Europe measuring 155 metres in length and holding 247 beds. Quote ‘Guide Me’ at the ticketing counter to claim your 15 per cent discount on the entrance fee (not valid with any other offer). Ask for a combined ticket which also includes a guided tour of The Sacra Infermeria – The Old Hospital of the Knights of St John.
The Malta Experience St Elmo Bastions, Mediterranean Street, Valletta. T: 2124 3776; W: www.themaltaexperience.com
More International Medals For Delicata Wines
Delicata, Malta’s leading winemaker, has amassed over 100 international awards for many of its wines during recent years. Below are the wines that have won 11 awards from international wine competitions held during the first few months of 2015: 2014 GRAN CAVALIER CHARDONNAY – Awarded a GOLD MEDAL at the Challenge International du Vin in Bordeaux – SILVER MEDAL at the Chardonnay du Monde in Burgundy – BRONZE MEDAL at the International Wine Challenge held in London 2014 CLASSIC COLLECTION ROSSINI SYRAH ROSÉ – Awarded a SILVER MEDAL at the Challenge International du Vin in Bordeaux 32
2013 GRAND VIN DE HAUTEVILLE MOSCATO – Awarded a BRONZE MEDAL at the Challenge International du Vin in Bordeaux – COMMENDATION at the Decanter World Wine Awards in London 2014 MEDINA SYRAH CARIGNAN GRENACHE – Awarded a BRONZE MEDAL at the Challenge International du Vin in Bordeaux 2014 VICTORIA HEIGHTS SHIRAZ ROSÉ – Awarded a BRONZE MEDAL at the Drinks Business Global Rosé Masters in London 2014 CLASSIC COLLECTION LANDINI VERMENTINO – Awarded a COMMENDATION at the Decanter World Wine Awards in London ĠELLEWŻA ROSÉ FRIZZANTE – Awarded a COMMENDATION at the International Wine Challenge held in London 2014 GRAND VIN DE HAUTEVILLE VIOGNIER – Awarded a DIPLOMA DI GRAN MENZIONE at the Concorso Enologico Internazionale in Verona.
For a full list of all of Delicata’s 105 international wine awards visit www.delicata.com or www.facebook.com/DelicataWinery
TAKE NOTE
Valletta Living History
history, elegance and lifestyle… wrapped up in one great attraction!
Valletta Living History is a 35-minute multi-lingual, high definition, docudrama, in the form of an audio-visual show, depicting the history, culture and lifestyle of Malta and the Maltese. Re-live the arrival of Valletta’s earliest settlers; the Great Siege that erupted between the Knights of St John and the fierce Ottoman Empire; French and British rule; as well as the city’s heroic role in World War II till present day. The show provides great entertainment for all the family, right in the heart of Malta’s capital city Valletta, making sure you take in all the sights. It has been awarded the Quality Assured title by the Malta Tourism Authority and has been recommended in various publications. You’ll discover the well-known events that shaped the destiny of the Mediterranean and Europe, as well as the intriguing facts and nuances Valletta Living History, Level 2, that make Valletta the fascinating and vibrant city that it is today. The Embassy Complex, St Lucia Street, Valletta. Valletta Living History has been recommended as T: 2722 0071; W: www.maltaattraction.com the perfect way to start your visit in the city!
THINGS TO DO
An unforgettable weekend inMalta If you’re here for a short while and want to make the most of your visit, look no further. Martina Said maps out a three-day itinerary over one weekend in Malta to help you make the most of a brief trip, while ensuring it’s an extraordinary one.
Ċittadella view, Gozo - Photo: Clive Vella - viewingmalta.com
FRIDAY
Casa Rocca Piccola, Valletta - Photo: viewingmalta.com
You can’t holiday in the Maltese islands without visiting the enthralling capital city of Valletta. Head there early morning, when the city is coming to life with people rushing to get to work while others lazily pace the streets watching the world go by. I’d recommend starting off with a walk down Republic or
Merchants Streets from the imposing entrance of Valletta, where the recently inaugurated Parliament building designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano dominates the square. Walking down these two main roads offers a taste of the grandeur and appeal of this marvellous city, a UNESCO World Heritage site and European Capital of Culture in 2018. You must visit St John’s Co-Cathedral, described as the first complete example of high baroque in the world. The stunning cathedral is a showcase of Mattia Preti’s work, and also houses Caravaggio’s unique depiction of the beheading of St John, among many other treasures. Continue past the cathedral to Casa Rocca Piccola, also in Republic Street, an immaculatelykept 16th century palazzo owned by
Marquis Nicholas de Piro. Visitors can take a guided tour through the various ornate rooms at this private residence, including the summer dining room, the archives, the Chinese room, the chapel and three underground World War II bomb shelters, or visit on Friday evening for a guided tour – accompanied by a few glasses of champagne – often led by Marquis de Piro himself. Take a stroll to the National War Museum at the newly restored Fort St Elmo (see p52), which predominantly represents Malta’s important military role post-1800 under British colonial rule, especially during World War II when Malta was the most heavily bombed country in Europe. ➜ 37
Battery Street, Valletta Photo: Malcolm Debono - viewingmalta.com
THINGS TO DO Adjacent to the museum is The Malta Experience, an audiovisual show that tells the dramatic story of the islands’ 7,000-year history. Enjoy clear imagery and atmospheric sound, which helps viewers better appreciate how the country and its people overcame unimaginable odds. The show is told in 16 languages and makes for an informative cultural experience. Around lunch time, walk to Marsamxett harbour nearby and take your pick among a selection of restaurants in the area, many of which are especially renowned for great fish dishes. Alternatively, grab the ferry from Marsamxett to the seaside town of Sliema, where you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options, either for a light bite in one of numerous coffee shops, or an all-out meal. You’re likely to find a restaurant to suit all tastes and appetites, and if you’re after a palatable and satisfying Indian meal, I recommend Sa Re Ga Ma at the Fortina Spa Resort, which prepares authentic fare from 30 regions across India. Sliema is also especially renowned for shopping, the main areas being Tower Road, Bisazza Street and The Point shopping mall at Tigné. If you’re not the shopping kind, however, you could bypass the shops entirely and walk towards the scenic Sliema promenade
starting from Tigné, which takes you all the way to neighbouring St Julian’s. You could stop on the way for a dip in the beautiful blue sea at one of the rocky beaches lining the coast, followed by a leisurely walk along the promenade and an ice-cream from a parlour along the seafront. Your evening in this area should end with a night in popular Paceville, considered Malta’s nightlife hub. For a venue out of the mainstream area, head to Level 22 in Portomaso Tower, next to the Hilton Hotel. The vibe here is a little more upmarket and chic, thanks to the plush surroundings and excellent views. For a little bit of everything, keep heading towards the centre of Paceville which offers a range of clubbing and other entertainment options. Before heading home – if you’re peckish – do as the locals do and stop for a refuelling bite and typically local delicacy at a pastizzerija – it will go down a treat.
Sliema promenade
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SATURDAY Saturday is a good day to make the most of island life and enjoy what Malta is especially known for – sun and sea. I suggest looking into the tours organised by Hornblower Cruises – check out their tour of Comino, Blue Lagoon and the caves, or another tour which offers the same trip with the addition of a three-hour stop in Gozo, enabling you to explore the sister island in an organised manner. The Comino cruise includes a four-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon where you can visit the few historical sites on this miniscule island and explore the incredibly crystal-clear waters through snorkelling and swimming. The Hornblower cruises depart the Buġibba jetty at 10.45am and return at 5.30pm. If you’re not too keen on spending a day hopping on and off a boat, there are plenty of other water-related activities to be enjoyed, such as at the Splash & Fun Water Park. This is Malta’s only water fun park, located in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq along the Coast Road, and is filled with enjoyable attractions such as water slides, swimming pools and Splashland for the kids. You can continue on to Popeye Village at Anchor Bay in Mellieħa, originally a film set for the 1980 musical production ‘Popeye’. It has since remained a major attraction for the young and young at heart, featuring lopsided huts and rickety bridges for kids to play in and enjoy. The complex includes Anchor Bay Lido which is ideal for a refreshing dip. ➜
THINGS TO DO
Hop over to Gozo
Blue Lagoon, Comino
Alternatively spend the day relaxing at one of the many beaches that dot the islands (see our ‘Cover Story’ on p15 for detailed information on local beaches). Spend your evening in nearby Buġibba, Xemxija, St Paul’s Bay or Mellieħa, all of which offer a range of quality eateries for a delightful dinner. Here you’ll have the opportunity to dine al fresco at a number of restaurants, while enjoying beautiful sunset views of the Mediterranean. If you’re up for something a little out of the ordinary, head over to The Fish Lounge in Buġibba (with other outlets in St Julian’s and Mellieħa) for a fish pedicure, with lots of little fish nibbling at your feet, effectively ‘vacuum cleaning’ the dead skin on them. The procedure resembles a tickly massage and is a dose of good fun. Worth mentioning is that it is
carried out in a dedicated spa tank with a powerful filtration system and the highest hygiene standards.
SUNDAY At the centre of the island stand the charming medieval city of Mdina and its enchanting neighbour, Rabat. Start by wandering around the winding alleys of ancient Rabat, also home to an underground maze of catacombs that runs below its streets – the catacombs of St Paul and St Agatha. A visit to Rabat is not complete without a pit stop at one of the most popular pastizzi outlets on the island – by the name of Crystal Palace, but known to many as Is-Serkin in keeping with its owner’s nickname. It serves pea and ricotta pastizzi all day long which go down a treat with a homely ‘tè fit-tazza’ (tea in a glass) – a simple pleasure, but one that you’ll
Splash & Fun Water Park
Your holiday doesn’t have to start and end in Malta. Just across the water there is another destination that’s equally exciting to discover – the sister island of Gozo. Cross from one isle to the other on the ferry which leaves from Ċirkewwa and takes around 25 minutes. Perhaps you should start with a visit to the heart of the capital – Victoria (or Rabat as it is also known) – called it-Tokk, where market stalls sell everything from knitted jumpers and sunglasses to beach towels and traditional lace. Visit the ancient fortified city of Ċittadella, with its magnificent 360-degree views of the island, and be sure to slot in a visit to the world-famous Neolithic temples of Ġgantija, which are just a few minutes’ drive away from the capital, on the outskirts of Xagħra. Just beyond is the Ta’ Kola Windmill, constructed in the 18th century during the reign of Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena, which is also worth a visit. Additionally, there are numerous beaches to enjoy here, such as Ramla Bay, Daħlet Qorrot, Xlendi Bay and Ħondoq ir-Rummien, each with its own striking characteristics and beautiful waters.
probably keep going back for. Crystal Palace is around the corner from the Roman Villa, and a five-minute walk from the entrance to Mdina, which should be your next stop. There’s plenty to see and do in the Silent City as it is fondly referred to, also Malta’s former capital, and a visit to the Mdina Experience will tell you all about its rich history. This 30-minute audio-visual experience takes viewers on a journey through time, describing the city’s hardships and triumphs over many years. ➜ 41
Pastizzi, cheese cakes - Photo: viewingmalta.com
THINGS TO DO If this proved to be of interest to you, keep walking to Casa Magazzini in Magazine Street for a visit to a museum depicting the history of the Order of the Knights of St John. Visitors can explore 34 tableaux covering a range of realistic sketches illustrating life during the 200-year rule of the Knights over the islands. Both of these offer a rich educational experience, especially ideal for history enthusiasts. Mdina can also be enjoyed through leisurely strolls on foot – the houses and Palazzo Falson, Mdina Photo: Mario Galea - viewingmalta.com
Birgu marina - Photo: viewingmalta.com
walls lining the streets are imposing and beautiful, in particular Palazzo Falson, a two-storey medieval palace replete with works of art and antiques. Stop for a coffee and a snack along the way and simply immerse yourself in the peaceful ambience of this majestic city. Stop over at Bacchus restaurant for lunch – a popular eatery at the heart of Mdina that has been in operation for a whopping 35 years. It is renowned for its tasty home-style cooking, served in its spectacularly vaulted interior or on the romantic outdoor terrace with fantastic views. Later in the afternoon, once the heat starts to subside, consider a walk or hike in the nearby countryside in lush and incredibly scenic areas such as Mtaħleb, Landrijiet, Kunċizzjoni or Buskett Gardens, one of Malta’s very few wooded stretches. Most of these picturesque
spots are accessible by bus or car. For your last evening here, I’d recommend a visit to the south of the island, ideally before the sun sets. Here you’ll find The Three Cities which together offer a glimpse into Malta’s maritime past. Cospicua, Senglea and Vittoriosa (or Bormla, Isla and Birgu respectively), have provided a home and fortress to practically every human settlement on the islands. As the first home to the Knights of St John, Birgu is adorned with palaces, churches, bastions and forts. You would do well to visit the hub of the city on foot, and choose one of the many options there for a sumptuous and picturesque dinner. An alternative dining option in the vicinity is the seaside village of Marsascala, offering numerous restaurants – most specialising in fish – to choose from.
TAKE NOTE
Charter a boat in Malta
Despite its modest size, Malta is a treasure trove of options for enthusiastic holidaymakers. For starters, no summer holiday here is complete without a jaunt out to sea, and it’s your call whether you take the ‘relaxation’ or ‘all-action’ route. There is no doubt that you’re in for a treat if you choose to charter a boat to explore the islands’ scenic coast which has spectacular cliff formations, historical harbours and beautiful bays, including the outstanding Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino – a natural pool with crystal-clear waters and rich golden sands. Whether you are searching for a casual cruiser, a pristine yacht, a fast power boat or a cool catamaran, maltatboatcharter.com offers an excellent variety of quality boat charters to choose from, at very reasonable prices.
Simply select your charter requirements on www.maltaboatcharter.com to find your dream boat! Alternatively call on M: 9988 3250.
PROPERTY
A spirit of
enterprise, creativity and innovation
Described as Malta’s most enterprising and exciting entrepreneur in property development, Tumas Developments has been instrumental in developing many of the island’s most prestigious projects. Launched in the 1960s by Tumas Fenech, the company grew quickly based on its values of ingenuity, expertise and skill... successfully revolutionising the local property industry. By purchasing under-used real estate, the Group breathed new life into Malta’s then inert tourism and property markets, helping to beautify the environs and fuel the country’s economy. There have been numerous milestone projects over the years, from the magnificent, unique multimillion investment, and international award-winning Portomaso – St Julian’s, consisting of a marina, hotel, leisure and residential development; to the tranquil
seaside Tas-Sellum – Mellieħa in the north and the unique Ta’ Monita complex – Marsascala in the south. A very small selection of apartments are available for sale in Portomaso; whereas Tas-Sellum offers apartments (from 97sqm) starting from €215,000; whilst Ta’ Monita offers apartments (from 61sqm) starting from €105,000.
For more information contact our Sales Office in Portomaso on T: 2138 6802; M: 7949 7504; E: info@tumasdevelopments.com; www.tumasdevelopments.com
PLACES TO VISIT
Valletta Living History Valletta Living History is a high definition multi-lingual audio-visual show depicting the history, culture and lifestyle of Malta and the Maltese, showing everyday at the Embassy Complex in the heart of Valletta. Relive the Great Siege between the brave Knights and fierce Ottomans, the French and British rule, and World War II till today. Many recommend it as the best first stop when visiting Valletta. Open seven days a week with shows at 10, 10.45, 11.30am, 12.15, 1, 1.45, 2.30 and 3.15pm. Valletta Living History, Level 2, The Embassy Complex, St Lucia Street, Valletta. T: 2722 0071; W: www.maltaattraction.com
MDINA EXPERIENCE Take an unforgettable 30 minutes to experience Mdina’s fascinating journey through time. Relive Mdina’s 7,000 years of tragedy and triumph. The cult of the mother goddess, the shipwreck of St Paul, the medieval city half destroyed by an earthquake and gloriously rebuilt, Mdina defended by the fighting spirit of the Knights of St John – The Mdina Experience traces the fascinating story, thousands of years back. Open seven days a week from 10am to 4.30pm. Available in 12 languages. Mdina Experience, 7, Mesquita Square, Mdina. T: 2145 4322/2145 0055; E: info@themdinaexperience.com
KNIGHTS OF MALTA The Knights of Malta is a unique series of expertly captured scenes from the original tales of the life and times of the Crusader Knights. Discover how in 1530, Grand Master L’Isle Adam entered the gates of the fortified city. An extraordinary achievement that depicts the energy of those who lived, fought and died in bygone centuries. Open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm. Available in 13 languages. 14/19, Casa Magazzini, Magazines Street, Mdina. T: 2145 1342; E: info@themdinaexperience.com
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NEWS NEWS
Valletta’s open-air theatre, in silver
In April, the Commerce Department within the Ministry for the Economy, Investment and Small Business announced the winners of the fifth edition of the annual local crafts competition, Premju Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti. Among the awards given was that of Most Innovative Product by a Group of Crafts Persons, which was claimed by Goldline Ltd, made up of Toni Calleja, Anton Cremona, Vince Desira and Joe Desira, for their stunning portrayal of Pjazza Teatru Rjal (Royal Opera House) out of 925 sterling silver and 24 karat gold (pictured here). The intricately detailed model features the open-air theatre constructed within the ruins of the former Royal Opera House in Valletta, which forms part of internationally renowned architect Renzo Piano’s City Gate Project. NEWS
The 450th anniversary of The Great Siege
This year marks the 450th anniversary of The Great Siege, and activities commemorating this monumental event in Malta’s history are being organised throughout the year. The Great Siege of Malta, which took place in 1565, is considered one of the greatest historic battles within the islands’ rich history. Due to its strategic geographic location within the Mediterranean Fort St Elmo - Photo: Heritage Malta
The team behind the silver theatre, which weighs a sizeable 2.4kg, began the process by photographing the theatre in Valletta from every possible angle, as well as consulting
the original plans for the building. Some 10 months comprising about 1,400 hours of work later, the project was completed, and marking the team’s first entry within the Premju Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti, also marks their first victory.
Sea, Malta has been sought by many superpowers in the past. During the time of the Knights of St John, led by Grand Master Jean De Valette, the Maltese islands were under constant threat from the Ottoman Empire. In May 1565, an Ottoman fleet of 40,000 men descended upon the islands’ shores, marking the start of what would hitherto be known as The Great Siege.
Suit of armour of Grand Master Jean De Valette, Palace Armoury - Photo: Heritage Malta - viewingmalta.com
Months of battle were to follow, with the Turks attacking and finally overtaking Fort St Elmo, and moving on to target ➜ 51
NEWS Fort St Angelo, at the centre of Grand Harbour, which the Knights were successful in defending. The bloodshed continued until 8th September 1565, when the Knights were finally able to overcome the Turks, aided by a fleet of 8,000 men, which were sent to their aid by Viceroy of Sicily Don Garcia. To commemorate the 450th anniversary of this great victory, Heritage Malta (the national agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage) is organising a number of events throughout the year. Between 26th and 29th June, First and Last Hope, an interactive and site-specific performance featuring some of Malta’s best NEWS
actors centred around the events prior, during and after the Great Siege of 1565 will be put on. The audience will be able to experience what it would have been like to live those days of tension, turmoil and patriotism by being directly involved in the performance. Later, on 15th July, Shadows
Restored Fort St Elmo opens its doors to the public
Last month saw the national parliament’s official move to the new Parliament building, which forms part of architect Renzo Piano’s highly talked about City Gate Project. But also among the interesting developments happening in Valletta
Chapel of St Anne
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Great Siege of Malta - painting by Charles-Philippe Larivière (c1843)
leading up to the city’s term as European Capital of Culture in 2018 is the restoration of one of its major forts – the iconic Fort St Elmo. Looking back on its history, it was in 1551, following a harsh Ottoman razzia and various reports
Photos: Heritage Malta
from the Great Siege will feature an animated tour of the streets of Senglea (Isla), during which participants will not only be given information on the relevant points of interest, but will also encounter various characters who featured in the Great Siege of 1565. For more information visit www.heritagemalta.org/1565 indicating a looming Ottoman siege that Grand Master De Homedes issued an order for the immediate erection of a fort. Designed by military engineer Pietro Pardo, the star-shaped Fort St Elmo was constructed in circa six months, and by 1565, it had acquired a cavalier, a covertway, ➜
NEWS Heritage Malta, Fort St Elmo was opened to the public last month, and also hosts the National War Museum. The process of rehabilitation uncovered previously unknown tunnels, underground rooms, remains of the original fort and the foundations of a windmill which dates to the pre-British period. The National War Museum within the fort houses a superb collection of items dating back to prehistoric times. Starting from tools and weapons used in the early phases of the Bronze Age in around 2,500 BC, the museum also houses objects related to the Classical Age, medieval armour and other equipment from the time of the Knights leading up to items from the First and Second World Wars, including the three most important icons of this museum: the Gloster Sea Gladiator N5520 FAITH, Roosevelt’s Jeep ‘Husky’ and Malta’s award for gallantry, the George Cross. Piazza D'Armi and Church of St Anne
Visit www.heritagemalta.org for more information about the fort.
a terraille and a ravelin which was hastily built only a few months before The Great Siege. Following the Order of St John’s victory over the Ottomans, the new fortified city of Valletta was built, designed by military engineer Francesco Laparelli, which included a reconstructed and enlarged fort. Additions and alterations were carried out to the fort over the centuries, right up until the British period, which saw the fort being adapted to the various advances in military technology. Following a €15.5 million conservation and restoration project headed by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation and Photos: Heritage Malta
National War Museum
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ENTERTAINMENT
FARSONS
Beer Festival 2015
A host of beers, music and much more
The 35th edition of the Farsons Beer Festival promises a celebration of the best local beers on the island and a host of top musicians and artists. Fans of good music will enjoy the great line-up of top local artists whilst beer lovers can sample a vast array of local and international beers. Running over ten days, from Friday 24th July to Sunday 2nd August at the Ta’ Qali National Park, the festival starts at 8pm every night,
offering a great night out to all. The festival, one of Malta’s top summer outdoor events, features local and international awardwinning beer brands, food stations, as well music shows and performances featuring over 50 Maltese and international artists. It is a one-of-a-kind event that will surely delight all its visitors once again. Entrance is free of charge.
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Valletta coast - Photo: viewingmalta.com
THINGS TO DO
Touring the Maltese islands
a personal account From outer space, the tiny islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino, which form the Maltese archipelago, are barely visible. Not that I’ve ever been to outer space, of course. However, it was on my to-do list up till the age of 21 when my expectations became a little more realistic. When you’re actually IN Malta, the islands belie their small stature with oodles of personality and a sheer volume of things to do. So these days, I season my life with delicious and tantalising trips to Malta and its sister islands, with their fascinating history, rich culture and warm and friendly people. For our next trip, my friends John, Caroline, Juliette and I booked most of our excursions online on www.excursionsinmalta.com. We plan to go scuba diving, quad biking, and we’ve also booked a day trip to Sicily, so this year
our holiday is a sort of ‘two for one’ if you like. John, a bit of a culture buff, wanted the ‘Temples and Local Lifestyle’ tour, and we thought that the ‘Fernandes Sunset Cruise’ would be a nice treat for
the girls, although it must be said I’m a bit of a romantic myself. Not too sure about John though! We were also interested in the ‘Photography Tour’ which is the newest tour on the website. John fancies himself as a little bit of a David Bailey, and I just bought a new camera, so we boys will be going on that while the girls go horse riding. We thought it would be nice to do a couple of things separately. So all in all, it looks like we’re in for a fun trip. We have left a couple of days free so that we can laze by the pool and get suntans that we can show off back home. Plus there are a couple of restaurants I saw on my last trip that I promised myself I’d try next time round. And we will also be meeting up with some Maltese friends who have kindly offered to let us spend the day with them at their villa in Mellieħa. Can’t wait! Arrigo Group Ltd, 248, Tower Road, Sliema. T: 2349 2349.
Mnajdra temple - Photo: Clive Vella - viewingmalta.com
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TAKE NOTE
Charter a sailing yacht during your stay
Try something different during your Malta vacation by chartering a sailing yacht. For those who have no sailing experience or would like to have a skipper on board, this option can be taken up from the charter company at minimal cost. This allows you to have local knowledge from the skipper regarding your cruising area such as anchorages, bay and marinas, along with the best places to eat and drink. Nautica offers a brand new Jeanneau S.O. 509, a Bavaria 45 Cruiser and Beneteau Cyclades 43.3 and 50.5 sailing yachts for charter, accommodating up to eight to ten guests for overnight charters. All cabins have double berths and most also include ensuite facilities. These yachts were built specifically with charter guests in mind, making them easy to sail. All the vessels are equipped with all the required safety equipment and are certified by Transport Malta for bareboat or skippered yacht charter, and both vessel and guests on board are fully insured.
The fleet is maintained to the highest standard by our team that works to a maintenance plan to ensure that the yachts are kept in a new condition until they are replaced after about three or four years.
Contact Nautica Ltd on T: 2134 5138/9 or E: charter@nautica.com.mt/info@nautica.com.mt  to plan out your holiday on board one of our vessels. www.yachtchartermalta.com/www.nautica.com.mt
CULTURE
Rome and Juliet
TO BE STAGED IN SAN ANTON GARDENS
Romeo and Juliet is MADC’s (Malta Amateur Dramatic Club) choice of play by William Shakespeare this year, to be staged in the idyllic Gardens of San Anton Palace, the home of the President of Malta. Written around 420 years ago, this is one of the best known stories of all times about love, passion and tragedy. It is a perfect example of Shakespeare’s great understanding of human nature and his ability to find universal human qualities and put them in a dramatic situation, creating timeless characters. It’s a well-known theme: “two
households, alike in dignity – a pair of ‘star-crossed’ lovers take their lives”. However Director Luke Farrugia sets out to reveal the multifaceted nature of the story, showing its eternity. It could happen to anyone at any time. The audience is immersed in a world of danger, hate and death in a timeless and nameless place, enhanced with music and dance.
Date: 23rd July-31st July 2015. Venue: San Anton Gardens, Attard. Time: 8.15pm. Bookings: www.madc.com.mt
Photo: Peter Bartolo Parnis
TAKE NOTE
The perfect start
to your honeymoon
With the wedding excitement behind you, it’s time for your own personal celebration now, and your new life together starts with the trip of a lifetime. Your honeymoon is probably the most indulgent holiday you’ll ever take, so start it off in style with the La Valette Club Special Occasions Package at Malta International Airport. Enjoy a smooth, effortless and unforgettable airport experience in true VIP style.
Visit www.lavaletteclub.com for more information or call us on T: 2369 6292.
FASHION
hit the
BEACH IN STYLE
All set to hit Malta’s beautiful beaches? Follow Sarah Micallef’s top beachwear trends to look your best on the beach this summer.
THE SWIMWEAR The variety of different types of swimwear to suit each body type and personality is huge this summer, meaning you’re bound to find your perfect match. Top trends this year include printed and patterned styles, such as those by Mara Hoffman and Salinas, particularly featuring interesting 3D and photo prints, which give added dimension. Highneck crop top bikinis like those by Wildfox are also back this year, lending a sporty twist to your look, as well as longline bikini tops bearing charming retro motifs. Speaking of retro, ‘60s style high-waisted bikini bottoms are also huge this year, and are perfect if you’re looking for a little extra coverage on your bottom half. Other great swimwear options this summer include girly flounce bikini tops and fluttered styles like those seen in collections by Zimmermann and Maaji, which are cute and girly, and work perfectly if you’ve got a smaller bust. Sophisticated and elegant swimwear designs are also making a splash, particularly in monochromatic colour schemes for ultimate glamour.
Seafolly
Meanwhile, cutaway styles are perfect if you’re a fan of something a little more risqué, with sexy monokinis like those showcased by Luli Fama and Beach Bunny taking centre stage. If you prefer sticking to the classics however, there’s something for you too, with the ever-present bandeau and triangle top bikinis featuring widely in swimwear collections this year once again. ➜
Mara Hoffman
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FASHION
Your beach bag essentials
Hitting the beach? Don’t leave home without these beach bag essentials!
Chantelle
THE PRINTS Want to know what prints to look out for to look hot on the beach this summer? Look no further! From gingham to stripes and watercolour to animal print, this is certainly the year of Balenciaga the print. Designers like Michael Kors, Bottega Veneta and Diane Von Furstenberg championed gingham in their collections, while unusual animal patterns stole the show in collections by Burberry and Julien MacDonald. Stripes are always a favourite come summer, with designers like Preen, Chanel and Givenchy featuring the trend in their collections. Graphic and geometric effects also run through both clothing and swimwear this season, along with floral and nature patterns like those at Marni and Miu Miu, and abstract artistic patterns that designers like Mary Katrantzou do so well. Ethnic patterns are also having a moment, along with exotic imagery, star prints and polka dots. 66
THE COLOURS Colours are truly at their most beautiful in summer, against a golden tan and bright blue sky. The top colours to be seen in this summer are quite a few, starting with aquamarine, as seen in shows by Monique Lhuillier and BCBG Max Azria. Various shades of blue are also popular this season, with scuba blue as seen at Blumarine and classic blue as featured at Trussardi topping the list. Other top colours of the season include Lucite green, strawberry pink, tangerine, white and yellow. Designers showcasing yellow include Ralph Lauren and Jenny Packham, while locally, N-tice Boutique in St Julian’s features a stunning selection of yellow dresses in all shapes and styles within their summer collection. Short Dress €52, N-tice Boutique, St Julian's
Sunblock – We’ve all heard about how dangerous the sun can be, so enjoy the sun safely by applying sunblock at regular intervals when hitting the beach, and don’t forget to re-apply after swimming. Towel – This is definitely a beach essential, and whether you choose to go for a fluffy utilitarian or a trendy designer variant, it’ll come in handy for drying off after a dip, or stretching out on the sand for a breather. Sunglasses – Don’t forget that your eyes need protection too! Always choose a pair with a good UV filter. Hat – We can’t stress enough how important it is to shield yourself from the sun – a hat will help, especially if you’re not under an umbrella. Water – It’s important to keep hydrated in those hot summer days, so always make sure to carry a bottle of water around with you.
THE HEADWEAR Protecting yourself from the harsh sun has never been more stylish. This summer’s top headwear trends are vast, and are sure to win you over whatever your style. Take your pick from panama and bucket hats to boaters, floppy hats, caps and masculine-inspired hats like the fedora and top hat to keep the sun from your face this year. ➜
FASHION
Eugenia Kim
Other trending headwear include wide-brim sunhats which are perfect for lounging around by the pool, as well as turbans and headscarves, which lend a vintage and classy vibe.
THE EYEWEAR Another accessory that plays double duty by shielding you from the harmful sun and looking stylish to boot is eyewear. This season’s plethora of styles is sure to inspire, and I’m certainly looking forward to getting my hands on a Victoria Beckham
few. To start, bright sunglasses have a perfect summery vibe, particularly the fun yellow options by Acne Studios and blue variants from Charlotte Ronson. Oversized sunglasses are also an enduring favourite, as well as aviators and retro ‘60s and ‘70s styles. Different sunglasses shapes are also gaining ground this year, with oval, square and round sunglasses all proving popular. Meanwhile, ombre effect sunglasses, such as those presented by Roberto Cavalli and Miu Miu are another favourite, as well as fun and quirky eyewear including glittery frames, butterfly and cat-eye sunglasses.
Banana Moon
WHERE TO SPEND IT
Armani Jeans The name Armani has been synonymous with unrivalled Italian style all over the world for over 30 years, and Armani Jeans brings the casual line of the prestigious Armani label to Malta. You can shop Armani Jeans at two dedicated monobrand stores in Malta stocking the latest collections together with a range of footwear and accessories. The Point Shopping Mall, Tigné, Sliema. Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 7.30pm. Baystreet, St George’s Road, St Julian’s. Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm.
Boss: New Summer 2015 Collection BOSS builds its latest collection around an aspirational archetype that mingles with a downtown cool. Tailoring is a strong category for BOSS, so naturally there are beautifully cut pants. BOSS also continues this idea with fresh styling. A simple t-shirt gives suiting a dressed-down look, made distinctive by a keen sense of colour – azure blue paired with off-white. Around those pieces other markers of casually elegant men’s dressing are assembled: two-toned lightweight coats, leather varsity jackets, light wool polo shirts. Houndstooth plaids, herringbone weaves and Breton stripes make sharp looks unexpectedly buoyant. The collection also introduces honeycomb knit V-neck sweaters and a distinguishing characteristic of the BOSS man: loafers in suede skins and treated to take on an antiqued patina.
The SUMMER 2015 Menswear Collection is now available at the BOSS Stores Malta of St Julian’s and Gate 1, Departures Lounge, Luqa Airport. For further information, call T: 2202 1000. The St Julian’s store is open Monday to Saturday 10am-8pm whilst the Airport store is open daily.
SARTO STORE: Beach favourites The temperatures are rising and summer’s with us. Head to the beach in style with the perfect beach carry-all from Emporio Armani. Pair with flip-flops – available in a range of colours. Discover your beach style at Sarto. Emporio Armani spring/summer 2015 collections, for men and women, are available exclusively at SARTO Store, 2, Ross Street, St Julian’s. T: 2202 1600; www.sarto.com.mt
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CHEMISTS Chemists are found throughout the islands and are open during normal shopping hours. On Sundays they operate on a roster from 9am to 12.30pm in Malta and from 7.30am to 11am in Gozo. Details of the roster are available on the local Sunday newspapers.
TAKE NOTE
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS DURING JUNE AND JULY 7 June – Sette Giugno 29 June – Feast of St Peter and St Paul (L-Imnarja) BANKS AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE Banks are normally open between 8.30am and 1.30pm Mon-Thur, between 8.30am and 3.30pm on Fri, and up to noon on Sat. Some banks open for longer hours. International bankcards are accepted and foreign currency is easily exchanged. Banks, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and exchange bureaux can be found all over the islands. USEFUL AND EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NOS 00356 International Code 112 Emergency Services 1182 Directory Enquiries 1152 Overseas Operator 195 Time Check 2124 9600 Flight Enquiries
TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES IN MALTA Malta Tourism Authority-run offices may be found at: Valletta 229, Auberge D’Italie, Merchants Street. T: 2291 5440/1/2 Malta International Airport Arrivals Lounge, Luqa. T: 2369 6073/4 Gozo 17, Independence Square, Victoria. T: 2291 5452/3 Mdina St Publius Square. T: 2145 4480 Mellieħa Misraħ iż-żjara tal-Papa Gwanni Pawlu II26 ta’ Mejju 1990. T: 2152 4666 Valletta Waterfront Pinto Wharf. T: 2122 0633 Public hospital in Malta Mater Dei Hospital, B’Kara By-pass, B’Kara. T: 2545 0000; E: mdh@gov.mt Public hospital in Gozo Gozo General Hospital, Victoria. T: 2156 1600
SMOKING No smoking is allowed in any entertainment establishment, including bars and restaurants, unless there is a designated smoking area. POSTAL SERVICES Most towns and villages have post or sub-post offices. Branch Post Offices in Malta and Gozo are open between 7.30am and 12.45pm Mon-Sat. Sub-Post Offices are open between 8am and 1pm, and 4pm and 6pm Mon-Fri, and between 8am and 1pm Sat. Stamps can be bought from post offices, local newsagents, souvenir shops and hotels. ELECTRICITY The electrical supply is 230 volts, 50 hertz. The three-pin rectangular plug system is used, as in Britain. Adapters are very easy to find. TIPPING Gratuities are usually in the region of 10-15 per cent, as in most European countries. As a rule of thumb: taxi drivers – not expected, but up to 10 per cent; porters – €0.25-0.35 per piece of luggage; restaurants, unless a service charge is added to the bill, 10 per cent.
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Your Shopping
destination of choice
Since its inception in March 2010, The Point – the largest shopping mall in Malta – has succeeded in firmly establishing itself as the shopping destination of choice on the island. The Point has been innovative and bold in its strategy and marketing campaigns, giving customers an unprecedented shopping experience and becoming a popular destination for all the family. The wide variety of top brands, comfortable ambience, ease of access and ample availability of parking spaces are only some of the components that helped The Point to achieve its success. Always customer-centric, the team at The Point manages to put together a vast calendar of events targeting various age groups and tastes. Competitions and offers are also available from various outlets and the mall itself on a regular basis. The Point Shopping Mall offers an experience like no other for customers who are looking for a good mix of outlets within any budget!
For a full calendar of events visit www.thepointmalta.com and The Point’s Facebook Page www.facebook.com/ThePointShoppingMall
Luna – the restaurant at Palazzo Parisio
Palazzo Parisio’s Luna restaurant combines a variety of culinary concepts set in a historic building. Every corner emanates femininity, luxury and a taste of history. In the morning, the Luna restaurant serves breakfast, snacks and lunch. In the afternoon you may enjoy the superb traditional English afternoon tea, with the possibility of purchasing a variety of fine teas from around the world for you to enjoy at home. You may choose from the sublime interior or the shaded tables on the garden terrace beside orange blossoms and bougainvilleas. In the evening (note that evening dining is limited – contact us for more information), relish a kaleidoscope of tastes via the impressive ‘Menu Degustazione’ with some of the most creative and stylish food interpretations enhanced by a vast selection of wines. The heavenly desserts are impossible to resist. The lounge offers relaxation and understated luxury amid the trendy Parisian-style interiors. Sit and sip exquisite aperitifs along with some
tasty bar bites or enjoy the wide selection of vintage wines, champagnes, vodkas and a variety of innovative cocktails. Comment devotees praise “the varied and stylish menu,” and the “excellent service” in a “magnificent setting”.
Open every day from 9am to 6pm. Book your table on T: 2141 2461 Ext 2 or E: fb@palazzoparisio.com 29, Victory Square, Naxxar. www.palazzoparisio.com 75
CUISINE
The
icestory
We take ice for granted today, but it has actually been part of Maltese life for hundreds of years. Jo Caruana chats to food writer Matty Cremona to discover how ice and ice-cream became unlikely parts of our island’s history and culture.
I have often wondered how some of our favourite foods and drinks came to be. Take cake for example; who was the bright spark who first decided to mix flour with sugar, eggs, butter, flour and baking powder to come up with one of the world’s best-loved treats? And what about tea? Who was it that decided to pour boiling water over leaves, add milk and sugar, and serve it in a bone china mug? Well, whoever they were, I would like to shake their hand and congratulate them. I honestly don’t know where I would be without cake and tea. 76
And the same goes for icecream. It certainly was a marvellous day in history when a very special person churned milk with sugar and a flavouring, and then froze the concoction, to produce icecream. They too deserve a round of applause for their cleverness. Of course, though, it didn’t happen that way at all. Nobody woke up one morning and invented the perfect cup of builders’ tea, or the ultimate Victoria’s sponge to go with it. Food has always been a journey, and it has evolved to mirror the society and technology of each era.
Ice-cream in Malta is actually a very good example of this evolution, and its is a journey that can be traced back to the 17th century – long before the first freezer had even been invented. “In a recent article on the subject, Maltese judge and historian Giovanni Bonello writes that there is record of ice-cream, ice and chilled drinks all
CUISINE
“Chunks of ice would be shipped to Malta on a daily basis and kept in an ice house near Victoria Gate in Valletta.” being served here in 1697,” says food writer Matty Cremona, who penned the popular book on the history of Maltese food, The Way We Ate. “This was recorded in a French publication of the day, and that article specified that there was no shortage of ice in Malta, as a contractor brought it over to the island on a daily basis.” Back then ice was shipped over from Etna in Sicily, where the Knights of St John – who ruled Malta at the time – had an ice grotto. “In the winter, the Knights’ slaves would pack ice from the mountain into the grotto, and it would keep cold for the rest of
the year. Chunks of it would then be shipped to Malta on a daily basis and kept in an icehouse near Victoria Gate in Valletta. Sadly, that icehouse was just one of the many treasures lost in World War II,” Matty continues. The ice was brought into the country on a ship called La Tartana della Neve, which operated on a daily basis between Malta and Sicily. Ice was already vital for use in hospital care and keeping food fresh, but gradually also became a sought-after treat when mixed into a dessert or a drink. “In those days they would make ice-cream and frozen goods in a bozzone,” continues Matty. “That was basically a wooden bucket filled with crushed ice and salt, which slowed the melting process. A metal bucket would then be jammed into the ice and filled with the required ingredients. This would all be churned or shaken together until the ice-cream was formed.” Back then local ‘ice-cream’ did not have the creamy texture that we are used to today, but was more like a sorbet. This was because there were very few cows on the island, so milk was quite a luxury item. There were a variety of flavours to choose from, though, including chocolate, strawberry, lemon and almond. Numerous recipes explaining the ice-cream trends of the day have been found in a 1748 book by Michele Mercieca called Libro Di Secreti Per Fare Cose Dolci Di Vari Modi, which is kept in the National Library in Valletta. Matty also recalls reading a dialogue in another book that was published around the same time, in which two women make reference to a frozen drink. “In it, two upper class Maltese women are chatting away, complaining about the heat and their
husbands,” Matty smiles. “The host offers her guest an inġazzata (iced drink), and she chooses an almondflavoured one. I loved reading that exchange because it highlighted how similar life is today – we’re still grumbling about the same things, and drinking frozen drinks to keep cool!” It seems that ice-cream and iceddrinks were made in much the same way for many years after that. Another reference is made by a certain George French Angus who visited Malta in 1842, who says that, at any hour of the day, you could buy an iced lemonata for half-a-penny, or an ice-cream for two-and-a-half pence. Interestingly, he refers to quite a wide selection of ice-cream flavours, including coffee, strawberry, pineapple and cherry. “The next big change came in the 19th century, by which time canning had been invented,” continues Matty, explaining that tinned milk became the main ingredient in Maltese ice-cream. “My great aunt and father have told me stories about how they would make ice-cream in the 1930s. They were lucky enough to have an ice box (an early fridge), and they would buy two stone-sized blocks of ice to put in it. They then used a bozzone to churn the ice-cream, and would keep it in the coldest section of the ice box. My father told me that he loved making ice-cream with his sisters, because he always got to be the one who licked the beaters!” Once again, ice-cream production didn’t change until another major new invention came on the scene – first paraffin refrigerators, and then electrical fridges after World War II. “After, there was no limit on the amount that could be made, so people started to experiment more with their frozen creations, both at home and commercially,” Matty says. ➜ 77
CUISINE “I loved watching my great-aunt make ice-cream. She would use chilled tinned milk that she whisked up into a fluffy texture, mixed with a squeeze of lemon and some sugar, and flavoured with anything from candied peel and strawberries to crunchy flaked almonds. It was absolutely delicious.” Matty also remembers the commercial ice-creams that became available in the 1970s and ’80s. They would be bought from kiosks dotted along the seafront, or from brightly-coloured ice-cream vans that toured the streets. “The cones were always a bit soggy because no-one had yet figured out that you could melt chocolate on the inside to keep them sturdy,” she says. “That put me off, so I always chose the chocolate sundae or the ice-cream wafer, while my sister loved the strawberry mivi (a vanilla ice-
“There were a variety of flavours to choose from, including chocolate, strawberry, lemon and almond.” cream lolly covered in strawberry ice). I can’t say that it all tasted delicious – I hated some of it – but there were some tasty options that are sadly very difficult to find today,” Matty adds. That said, if you do want to sample traditional Maltese icecream, you are in luck. Your best bet is the ‘ġelat tan-nanna’ (grandma’s ice-cream) found in supermarkets. It is a creamy ice-cream that’s made with candied peel, so it
does bear resemblance to the sort Matty’s great-aunt used to make. Of course, there’s no ice ship or manual bozzone in action today, but there are plenty of ice-creams to choose from! So, when you feel the heat, dig in to the iced treat of your choice and think back to the different – and similar – icecreams, sorbets and cold drinks that have been served in Malta over the last 400 years. Enjoy!
EATING & DRINKING
Churchill Restaurant Churchill is a stunning, open-air restaurant offering a unique culinary experience. Located in picturesque Xlendi, one of the most popular bays in Gozo, Churchill Restaurant is right at the water’s edge. Run with dedication and pride by Rosie Grech for the past 31 years, Churchill offers a vast selection of delectable food. The à la carte menu features salads, pasta dishes, meats, shellfish, fresh fish, as well as traditional Maltese dishes. Pizza is also served all day and a snack menu is available till 5pm. Open all week from 10am till late. Churchill Restaurant, Marina Street, Xlendi Bay, Gozo. T: 2155 5614; M: 9944 1880; E: info@churchillgozo.com; www.churchillgozo.com
Da Rosi Restaurant Da Rosi Restaurant is synonymous with speciality fish dishes and other mouth-watering specialities from the varied menu featuring meat and poultry dishes prepared by John and his team of experienced chefs. The restaurant also offers an indulging variety of desserts, including delightful home-made treats, and wine-lovers are well catered for with a wine menu of world-class fine wines. Da Rosi is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, its blend of traditional and modern, but above all genuine and fine cuisine, its moderate prices and its dedicated management that has been running this delightful spot for decades. Da Rosi Restaurant, 96, Church Street, St Paul’s Bay. Make a reservation on T: 2157 1411/2157 7312.
El Patron by StepIn Dine & Drink El Patron is the only fine-dining restaurant in Blue Grotto – a picturesque natural beauty spot on the southern coast of Malta. El Patron specialises in fresh pasta dishes, fresh meats and fresh fish – only the best ingredients are used to create our mouth-watering dishes. Dine indoors or on the terrace which enjoys spectacular sea views. El Patron, Triq Congreve, Wied iż-Żurrieq, Qrendi. Reserve your table on T: 21 64 0242; M: 9944 2084.
Il-Barri Restaurant Situated in the spacious Mġarr pjazza, Il-Barri Restaurant is a family-run business now in its third generation. While always renowned for Maltese specialities such as rabbit, braġjoli and horsemeat, it also offers a varied à la carte menu, including grills and fresh fish. The contemporary décor, coupled with amazing scenes of the countryside surrounding the village, ensure that the customer has a relaxing and enjoyable experience. We are open for lunch from Tuesday to Sunday between noon and 2.30pm; and for dinner from 6pm onwards. Mondays open only for dinner. Il-Barri Restaurant, Church Square, Mġarr. T: 2157 3235; M: 7961 7744; E: info@il-barri.com; www.il-barri.com.mt
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Irrera A family-run restaurant offering stunning panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and a varied menu to suit all budgets, Irrera has established itself as a familyfavourite eatery. The enticing menu has something for everyone, from snacks such as baguettes, ftiras, wraps and sandwiches, to sumptuous breakfasts, bruschettas, salads, platters and burgers. Irrera also offers a large selection of delicious pasta dishes, pizzas, meats, poultry, game and fish. Irrera is a unique place to relax and unwind whilst enjoying a wonderful atmosphere and a tasty dish. Open between 9am and 11pm every day. Irrera, Ta’ Xbiex Seafront, Ta’ Xbiex. T: 2134 0018; E: info@irreramalta.com
L’Artista Restaurant At L’Artista Restaurant, Chef Patron Emanuele creates culinary masterpieces. While being primarily a Sardinian restaurant, dishes are Mediterranean, and include Italian and Maltese favourites. Whether you prefer meat or seafood, pasta or rice, you are sure to find something to tickle your taste buds. Our main aim is to provide you with a fine dining experience in a warm, friendly, family restaurant atmosphere. Open Monday to Saturday 7-11pm; Sunday noon-2.30pm and 7-10.30pm. L’Artista Restaurant, 1, Triq Il-Gandoffli, Buġibba. T: 9995 4947; E: ristorantelartista@hotmail.it
L-Għonnella Restaurant Situated within the imposing Palazzo Spinola, in St Julian’s, L-Għonnella Restaurant has established itself as one of the best restaurants serving Maltese contemporary cuisine and local fresh fish. The restaurant offers patrons an interesting and varied Maltese menu, based on Maltese traditional recipes. The kitchen has endeavoured to produce a menu that merges time-proven recipes with modern and attractive presentation. L-Għonnella Restaurant is set in the palace’s cellar and offers a cosy, warm and candle-lit ambience. During the summer months dinner is served on the terrace. Open: 6.30-11pm. L-Għonnella Restaurant, Spinola Palace, Church Street, St Julian’s. T: 2135 1027; M: 9929 0632; E: info@ghonnella.com
Le Malte Le Malte, distinguished by great service, excellent value and authentic dishes specialises in Maltese and Mediterranean dishes including rabbit, horsemeat, beef olives (braġjoli) and snails, all cooked in the traditional way. Wine lovers are spoilt for choice with a selection of local wines. All those presenting this advert will be entitled to a free bottle of wine. Open from Monday to Sunday between noon and 11.30pm. Le Malte, Tower Road, Sliema (next door to Europa hotel). T: 2134 2242; M: 9987 8699; E: lemalterestaurant@gmail.com
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EATING & DRINKING
Maltese Mama Maltese Mama serves authentic Maltese and Italian cuisines complemented with great service in a relaxing atmosphere. To start, patrons are offered a complimentary plate of traditional Maltese antipasti, served with fresh bread and galletti. Starters include home-made soups, octopus, scallops, clams, the speciality shellfish platter and pasta dishes. A variety of main courses is also available, with specialities including fish and traditional Maltese dishes such as rabbit and braġjoli (beef olives). Maltese Mama, 19/2, Paceville Avenue, St Julian’s. T: 2737 7024; M: 7780 5312; E: eltonspiteri@hotmail.com
Medina Restaurant - Best Overall Restaurant in Malta & Gozo 2015 Set within an original Norman residence hidden amongst the honeycombed streets of Mdina, Malta’s former medieval capital, the restaurant evokes natural charm and character. The Medina presents a carefully selected à la carte menu, based on Mediterranean and local cuisine, that is frequently changed to ensure variety for regular diners. During the summer months dine in truly romantic surroundings beneath the flowering Oleander tree in the beautiful vine-clustered courtyard. Medina Restaurant, 7, Holy Cross Street, Mdina. T: 2145 4004; M: 7949 0748; E: info@medinarestaurant.com; www.medinarestaurantmalta.com
Palazzo Preca Restaurant Palazzo Preca Restaurant is repeatedly awarded highly as one of the best restaurants in Malta and Gozo. It is situated in one of the most well-known historic streets in Valletta, within a beautiful 16th-century palazzo in Strait Street. An extensive and creative menu provides mouth-watering choices of food and fine local and foreign wines. Last but not least do not miss out on our delicious home-made desserts. Professional, dedicated, attentive staff will help you to ensure that your visit is a completely enjoyable experience. Wednesday night is our special night when the lights are turned off and the restaurant is entirely lit by candles, creating an intimate and romantic ambience. Open Sunday lunch. Monday closed all day. Bookings are recommended and are to be confirmed by phone. T: 2122 6777; M: 9986 6640; W: www.palazzoprecarestaurant.com - Palazzo Preca, 54, Strait Street, Valletta.
Ta’ Kris Restaurant and Maltese Bistro Right in the heart of Sliema lies Ta’ Kris Restaurant and Maltese Bistro, serving wholesome home cooking at unbeatable prices. Chef patron Chris uses the freshest ingredients to create tasty Maltese dishes like Dad’s Famous Braġjoli, thick beef stew, veal escalopes and rabbit, and for those with a sweet tooth the deliciously crunchy imqaret – a must-try date-filled pastry. Patrons are also spoilt for choice with the daily specials ranging from fresh fish to beef fillet and various pasta dishes. All at this price-worthy restaurant is served in the unique setting of a former bakery. Ta’ Kris is one of the best rated restaurants by the Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants. Ta’ Kris, 80, Fawwara Lane, Sliema. T: 2133 7367; M: 9984 7713; W: www.takris.malta-europe.com
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Ta’ Marija Celebrating 50 years of excellence, Ta’ Marija restaurant offers the ideal venue for colleagues, friends and family to celebrate any occasion with sumptuous food in welcoming surroundings, complemented by our exceptional service and merriment in the making. Enjoy our all-inclusive carvery buffets on Saturday evenings and Sunday lunches for just €25 per person, or indulge in a Maltese extravaganza on Wednesday and Friday nights with a spectacular traditional folk dancing show and our mandolins and guitars duo! Ta’ Marija Restaurant, Constitution Street, Mosta. T: 2143 4444; E: info@tamarija.com.mt; www.tamarija.com.mt
Ta’ Rita Lapsi Restaurant The menu at Ta’ Rita is varied, and special requests can also be accommodated, offering flexibility especially for groups and events. In keeping with tradition, Maltese rabbit is probably the most popular dish, however you can also enjoy other specialities including grills, pastas, pizzas, snacks, platters, burgers, breakfast and other changing specials. Take-away service; Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner; Vast selection of local and foreign wines; Bar and waiter service. Our delicious desserts can be savoured at the end of your meal or just with a cup of tea or coffee as a quick treat. Ta’ Rita Lapsi View Bar Restaurant & Pizzeria, Għar Lapsi, Siġġiewi.T: 2164 0608.
Tal-Familja Restaurant Owned and operated by the Preca Family, Tal-Familja Restaurant specialises in fresh fish, shellfish, a wide range of juicy Irish steaks and Maltese dishes, as well as home-made sweets. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and food is served both indoors and outdoors. Do not leave the island before trying our food, accompanied by wine from our wine menu featuring a wide choice of local and foreign options. Free client parking is available across the street. Tal-Familja Restaurant, Triq il Gardiel, Marsascala (closed on Monday). T: 2163 2161; F: 2163 2161; M: 9947 3081; www.talfamiljarestaurant.com
Terrone Terrone is a restaurant in the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk that combines rustic charm with contemporary regional cuisine. Focusing on southern Italian and local Maltese cuisines, and handpicking the best local and organic produce, we aim to recreate a healthy and enjoyable way of dining. Open: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-late. Terrone, No.1, Wilġa Street, Marsaxlokk. T: 2704 2656; E: info@terrone.com.mt; terrone.com.mt
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EATING & DRINKING
The Boathouse Restaurant The Boathouse Restaurant in Xlendi, Gozo, is a stunning seafront restaurant which offers a unique culinary experience. Acknowledged as one of the Top 40 Restaurants on the Maltese islands for the past four consecutive years and ranking among the Top 20 in 2015, it specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, offering fresh fish and seafood, and a variety of meat and poultry dishes accompanied with an excellent list of local and international wines. The restaurant opens daily, serving the full menu and caters for late lunches. Open: 1 April-31 October Daily noon-10.30pm (last orders). In the Shoulder Season (1 November-31 March) check our Events Section on our website www.theboathousegozo.com for detailed opening hours. Booking is highly recommended. Reservations – T: 2756 7207, 2156 9153, 2155 7661.
The Grassy Hopper The food we eat is one of the foundations of a happy and fulfilling life. If we eat foods full of nutrients and cleansing properties, the level of energy we can bring to our lives will increase. At the Grassy Hopper we offer the tastiest food that is also high-quality fuel for your body, ranging from veggie burgers, salads and wraps to fresh juices, smoothies, wheatgrass, healthy sweets and ice-cream. Visit our outlets in Old Theatre Street, Valletta and Triq San Ġorġ, Gżira. Quote this code for a 10 per cent discount: Guideme108* *terms and conditions apply
NIGHTLIFE
Your summer entertainment
destination
Gianpula Complex is Malta’s open-air entertainment address during the summer months. The Gianpula Complex is a nightlife village with several venues where people of different ages can spend a great summer night. The Gianpula Complex operates from the end of May till the end of September from Wednesday to Sunday and is located in the valley below the medieval town of Mdina (Malta’s old capital, known as the Silent City) and in the limits of Rabat. It is only 13km away from St Julian’s,
Sliema or Valletta and 10km from Buġibba (St Paul’s Bay). Gianpula Complex covers an area of over 30 acres and boasts five different venues. Gianpula Complex opens its doors at 9.30pm with the Rooftop, a sought-after lounge where you can have your dinner in the dedicated dining area or chill out with your friends. From midnight onwards there are four nightclubs to choose from: Marrakech, recommended by Malta’s most exclusive community, offers carefully
selected DJs, singers, VIP tables, champagne and flawless service. Gianpula Main Room is where it all started in the early 90s, with a massive Martin audio sound system, pools, 11 bars and various terraces. The music policy is RNB, Commercial and House on Fridays and the venue hosts special events on Saturdays. The Groove Gardens open every Saturday night for a more intimate underground crowd. The final venue is Phoenix which operates every Friday with various attractions from flame throwers to CO2 jets, with a music policy of Main room, House and electro music, and every Saturday plays Strictly House music. Gianpula Complex also offers various food outlets as well as The Store which stocks merchandise items tied to the Complex. Finding your way back to your hotel after spending a long night with us is not a problem as taxis will be lined up ready to take you home. All club tickets can be bought online from www.gianpula.com See you at Gianpula Complex! 91
NIGHTLIFE
non-stop
summer nights
Whatever time of year you visit Malta, and whichever activities you are into, you will find a calendar of events to match. But, it has to be said that the local summer season is special. Summer is the most vibrant time of year on the island – the long evenings stretch ahead, and there is always a plethora of choices for those after some entertainment, including gigs, festivals and parties. The island has a wonderful buzz to it from June to September, and many local events have even secured international attention and a Europe-wide following. Take the Isle of MTV Malta Special, for instance, which will be held on 7th July at the Granaries, Floriana. This free, now-annual event attracts around 50,000 music lovers every year, who flock to enjoy performances by top musicians under the stars. Previous performers have included Lady Gaga, the Black Eyed Peas, Maroon 5, Akon, David Guetta, Snoop Dogg and Rita Ora. So far, three acts have been confirmed for 2015, namely Martin Garrix,
known for his song Animals, British singer-songwriter and Grammy award winner Jess Glynne, who shot to international stardom in the past months following a series of number one singles including recent UK number one Hold My Hand, and Jason Derulo of Whatcha Sky fame. Other artists will be announced in due course. Other concerts are also scheduled to take place, including by popular Italian artist Massimo Ranieri, who will perform in the Republic Hall of the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta on 12th June. He is best known for his song O Sole Mio, and he is bound to bring the house down when he performs here live, so do book your tickets early. For the most part, it is festivals that will light up the summer schedule, and there is something on almost weekly throughout June and July. If you are heading over to Gozo between 10th June and 13th July, then do stop by the Victoria International Arts Festival, which has become a popular annual event
Massimo Ranieri
Source: Blogo Entertainment
Isle of MTV
From classical concerts to late night parties, Malta’s summer calendar is buzzing. Jo Caruana highlights some of the must-attend events in June and July.
for culture lovers. In fact, now in its 18th edition, this festival is the longest-running artistic activity held anywhere on the Maltese islands. It spans five weeks of uninterrupted, high-powered musical activity, with 33 concerts to inspire you. Attending will also give you the chance to get to know Gozo better, as events will take place at il-Haġar Museum, St Augustine Church and the Bishop’s Curia, among others. ➜ 93
NIGHTLIFE
Kitarri, Għanafest - Photo: Darrin Zammit Lupi
If you want something that really reflects Maltese culture, then the Għanafest, which will be held from 12th to14th June at the Argotti Botanical Gardens in Floriana, should do the trick. This yearly music festival is named after Malta’s folk song ‘għana’, which is a type of singing with a slow rhythm. The three-day festival will revolve around a gypsy theme, with bands from across various Commenwealth countries coming to Malta. It has grown in popularity over the years, but still feels intimate. Visitors will also be able to try local pastizzi (pea- and cheese-filled pies), imqaret (sweet pastry cases filled with dates) and other treats that are traditionally Maltese. Film buffs will also be well taken care of this summer, at the Valletta Film Festival from 12th to 21st June. This is the first event of its kind and, for seven days, the capital will be filled with film, music, knowledge and creativity. A total of 45 films will be screened, so you can take your pick from the schedule (which is online at www. vallettafilmfestival.com) and see Valletta in a whole new light. Culture is definitely a popular trend for this summer, and the Malta International Arts Festival
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(MIAF) will be another culturecentric event. Held between 10th July and 3rd August, events will include the Musical Voyages of Marco Polo (a multidisciplinary performance offering a unique tableau of historical, musical and visual materials), ŻfinMalta’s Je Tiens la Reine (Malta’s official dance ensemble tells the story of a faun’s encounter with the Ogygiabased Calypso (from Homer’s the Odyssey) and Romeo and Juliet staged in the picturesque San Anton Gardens within the President’s Palace. You can find the full listing of events at www.maltaartsfestival. org. Within the MIAF celebrations, a satellite event, the Sliema Arts Festival, has also emerged as a popular choice. Held between 17th and 19th July in Sliema, over 15 foreign and local, street and urban artists will transform Sliema’s unique promenade and gardens into a melting pot of art. And, if you’re lucky enough
to be here between 16th and 19th July, then we highly recommend the Malta Jazz Festival. This annual event is now in its 25th year and it has certainly helped to raise the profile of jazz locally. Running for three nights, it will be held at Ta’ Liesse (where the Grand Harbour bastions meet the sea), and contemporary music will come together with a sense of history, setting the backdrop for highcalibre performances to delight jazz aficionados and lay persons alike. Finally, completing the festival line-up is the Farsons Great Beer Festival, from 27th July to 3rd August at the Ta’ Qali National Park. This event has literally become an institution and it is packed with beer-lovers and party-goers for the duration. The beer is definitely the highlight, of course (and will give you the chance to try our local ale, Cisk), but there’s also lots of entertainment and activities, singers and performances. And, if you are hoping to party your summer away, then you won’t be disappointed either. Kick-starting the season is Dutch house-music sensation Mike Mago, on 6th June at Gianpula in Rabat. Supporting DJs will include Alessia De Marino, Alvin Gee and Luc Adams, and this promises plenty of late-night dancing under the stars at this open-air venue. ➜ Beer Festival
NIGHTLIFE
Magic In The Sky (2014) - Photo: Angelo Caruana of Caruana Photography
In any case, Gianpula Complex is an open-air entertainment hub for party-goers throughout the summer months, featuring four nightclubs and a lounge area. For daytime partying, Sam Feld will perform from 4pm onwards at Café del Mar in Qawra, which is renowned as one of Malta’s most upmarket summer clubs. This is the first Sunset Special for Summer 2015, and regular events will be held throughout the season here. Another key event at Café del Mar will be the Malta Music Week party at 4pm on 4th July. For this, world-renowned DJ Duke Dumont, who is famous for his hit I Got U, will fly in for a one-off, high-energy performance. And, completing a trio of must-attend
party nights at this seafront venue is La Belle Musique at 4pm on 26th July, when three top artists will play their trademark tracks and remixes, as the sun sets over this stunning part of the island’s coast. Meanwhile, if you’d rather stay closer to the St Julian’s area, The Villa will be hosting another edition of its trademark All White Party on 26th June. It promises to bring together celebrities, footballers and VIPs from the UK and the rest of Europe for this one-off VIP party experience – just be sure to wear white! And of course it’s always a great night out at the upmarket Level 22 Club on the 22nd floor of the Portomaso Tower in Portomaso – expect great music and a fantastic vibe.
Finally, for something a little different, why not head to Magic in the Sky on 25th July in the little village of Żurrieq? Now a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, this annual pyromusical show is renowned for its colourful fireworks choreography. It is in its eighth edition and will once again feature the Hanabi Towers (two high-rise vertical firing posts which allow the possibility to create distinctive and spectacular pyrotechnic effects) and plenty of stunning aerial displays. It will certainly provide an explosive highlight to your summer in the sun!
ŻfinMalta - Photo: E. Tranter Photography
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