Oh My Malta Magazine March 2023

MARCH 2023

Maltese winter fades into spring as the weather begins to warm up, with plenty of sunny days and fabulous crystal clear skies. The great weather and fewer crowds make it an excellent time to explore and experience several top things to do. Explore the history and culture of the beautiful island including the capital city Valletta and even Mdina and the Three Cities in the south.

March is a great time to visit the sister island of Gozo too, before the hordes of summer arrive; soak up the beautiful scenes of Xlendi and Marsalforn as the Mediterranean sun shows itself in spring and make the most of the beauty of the Cittadella.

In this issue,we share what you need to know about travelling to the Maltese islands in March, what to do, where to go and what events you cannot miss out on.

For more information on latest events happening in Malta and Gozo visit our website www.ohmymalta.com.mt

We couldn't be happier to welcome you home!

Issue 28 • March 2023

Oh My Malta is a B2B publication, published monthly in partnership, with the Malta Tourism Authority. It promotes Malta and Gozo as a destination and treats readers to different aspects of Maltese life, culture, culinary delights and business. Visit www.ohmymalta.com.mt for more information.

Coordinating Editor

Philippa Zammit

Sales Coordinator

Marisa Schembri

mschembri@mediatoday.com.mt

Content Writers

Emily Francis

Terrence Mifsud

Tiana Formosa

Design

Philippa Zammit

Registered Address Vjal ir-Riħan San Gwann SGN9016

Malta

Email pzammit@mediatoday.com.mt

Contact Number +356 2138 2741

Cover Maltese Rock-Centaury - Malta's National Plant Photo credit: Aron Tanti

For a few moments let’s look back and recognise what was the scenario a year ago today. A tourism industry still being haunted by the threating Omicron variant. Let us never forget that we lived times where our airport was still caged with restrictions, a grand harbour deprived from cruiseliners. Hotels, restaurants, bars, taxi drivers, tourist guides, souvenir shops and even our own beaches, promenades craving for tourism. For some type of human activity.

The movement of persons. Travelling at a standstill in the face of continous uncertainty. However, fast track to today and the optics are positive and encouraging. Way better than we forecasted.

In 2022, 2.33 million tourists visited the Maltese Islands. The significance of these sterling results is attributed to the fact that while at European level there was a 79% recovery when compared to the last year before the pandemic, Malta’s recovery surpassed the continent’s average to 84%.

Significantly, these results stem from the efforts to recover and grow Malta’s connectivity to pre-pandemic levels where air seat capacity in 2022 has exceeded that of 2019 for 12 source markets and was almost similar for an additional 10 source markets.

Last year, tourists travelled to destinations closer to home which also explains the record of inbound tourism results achieved from the relatively neighbouring countries such Italy and France.

This relatively short term sucessful steady recovery is devoted to the profound resilience embraced by the hospitality community. Our people working in this industry were true frontliners who shored up Malta’s tourism industry in the best possible manner.

On a national level, tourism brought hope to our country. We all remember last summer seeing again the activity that we dearly missed. Our touristic avenues where once again up and running. In a nutshell, hospitality is alive once again.

More good news is on the way. This is trend is expected to remain in 2023 as tourists are expected to increasingly seek value for money in response to the challenging economic world environment.

Despite the recent, relatively short successful recovery we cannot sing victory yet. Henceforth, the direction will be shifted towards a more sustainable tourism activity which equates enhanced visitor satisfaction and host population derived benefits within the delivery of an improved quality experience at all levels of the value chain. Sustainability is a necessity not a choice. It means having tourists visiting our island on a year-round spread. It needs to be complementing partner of sustainability rather than in conflict with it. We have our challenges to achieve this. But we must embrace them head on to the extent that in the coming years we beat seasonality for good.

CLAYTON BARTOLO Minister for Tourism

Traditional Maltese Balconies

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Few things bring us all together more effectively than a captivating performance. From tongue-in-cheek comedies and music performances to new theatrical smashes and movie screenings, Malta has some incredible entertainment lined up this month!

Movies in Concert

Following the success of ‘Movies in Concert’, held in 2019, the Soċjetà Filarmonika L-Unjoni of Luqa, is proudly presenting another spectacular concert featuring film music. The symphonic band will be complemented by various string instruments to form a 90-piece orchestra which, together with Amadeus Chamber Choir and the Centrestage Choir, will provide a special night to remember. The hugely talented guest line-up features some of the best local talent, including Destiny, Eleanor Cassar, Tiziana Calleja, Ludwig Galea and Jeffrey Scicluna. The event will also include the use of visuals and advanced lighting technology, making this evening perfect for film enthusiasts, families and regular concert goers. This year's concert, under the baton of John David Zammit, will once again feature iconic movie scores penned by the best composers of this genre, such as James Horner, Hans Zimmer, Ennio Morricone and John Williams. The playlist includes music from Star Wars, The Lion King, Aladdin, Avatar, Titans, Bohemian Rhapsody, Pearl Harbour and Jurassic Park, amongst others. Get your tickets from www.showshappening.com

5,8,10,12 MAR

Opera-lovers, take note: as Malta’s operatic home, Teatru Manoel, will be staging a full on opera, featuring a stellar cast – directed and joined by international opera star, Argentine tenor José Cura – who will bring to life Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca. What’s more, Cura’s stage design will redefine traditional operatic staging, switching orchestra and performers between the orchestra pit and the near-300-year-old stage. The choir from KorMalta also enhances Puccini’s romantic score under the direction of chorus master Riccardo Bianchi, against the backdrop of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Mario De Rose. Tickets are available via www.teatrumanoel.mt

Manoel Theatre, Valletta

Tosca

MCC, Valletta

The generational voice behind club and radio hits numbered in the dozens, defining tracks for Tiësto, Armin, 3LAU, Cosmic Gate, Aly & Fila, Gareth Emery, Dash Berlin, Chris Lake, Ilan Bluestone, Emma isr recognised as one of the scene’s most creative. Get your tickets from www.showshappening.com

Lithuanian Film Days 2023

The second edition of the Lithuanian Film Days is taking place in March at Spazju Kreattiv Cinema. A special introduction by the Charge d‘Affairs of Lithuania to Malta will precede the 10 March screening of FRAGMENTS OF PARADISE. For more information on the films presented this year, visit kreattivita.org

Spazju Kteattiv Cinema, Valletta

Private Lives

In Private Lives, passion, laughter, romance, anger, and love set the stage for a battle of the sexes as divorced couple, Amanda and Elyot, find themselves unwittingly thrown together in Coward’s classic comedy of manners. Unknowingly booking adjoining rooms while on honeymoon with their respective spouses, Victor and Sybil, Amanda and Elyot are forced to face their true feelings for each other. Fast-paced, witty, and passionate, Noël Coward’s comedy is a delightful romp. Get your tickets from teatrumanoel.com.mt

Rock Classics of the 60s and 70s

The latest rock orchestral collaboration in a series of outstanding events brought to the MCC by The Gozo Youth Orchestra and 7SPP. The line up will feature The Gozo Youth Orchestra under the direction of their Musical Director, Maestro Joseph Grech. The orchestra will be joined by Gozo’s finest, CASH & Band, led by John ‘Cash’ Cassar. Also appearing on the night, will be a hugely talented line up of guest performers including Dorothy Bezzina, Sarah Bonnici, Kurt Cassar, Ludwig Galea, Neville Refalo.The show will feature classic numbers from legendary bands such as, The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Led Zeppelin, Blondie, Procol Harlem, Deep Purple, Nazareth, The Animals, Pink Floyd, Boston and artists such as Elvis Presley, Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart, Elton John and David Bowie. Get your tickets from www.showshappening.com

MCC, Valletta

Manoel Theatre, Valletta

Aria Complex, San Gwann

Emma Hewitt Live

17-19, 25-26

A Romance of Errors

In this Malta Opera devised operetta, each one singer will perform a setlist that was perfectly curated to match their abilities. Expect an hour and a half of opera and much more. "A Romance of Errors" takes us to Firenze in Italy where we embark on a tale of folly, rivalry and romance. Get your tickets from www. showshappening.com

MCAST Institute of Applied Sciences, Paola, Malta

The Sound of Music

The inspirational story based on the memoir of Maria Augusta Trapp, follows an ebullient postulant who serves as governess to the seven children of the imperious Captain von Trapp, bringing music and joy to household. But as the forces of Nazism take hold of Austria, Maria and the entire von Trapp family must make a moral decision. Featuring a trove of cherished songs including "Climb Ev'ry Mountain," "My Favourite Things," "Do Re Mi," "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" and the title number, The Sound of Music won the hearts of audiences worldwide, earning five Tony Awards and five Oscars.

Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta, Malta

Malta Society of Arts' 100 years at Palazzo de La Salle celebrations

Pianist Charlene Farrugia will be performing the following programme: Carlo Diacono | Fantasie

Impromptu Karol Szymanowsky | 4 Études op. 4

Carmelo Pace | 4 Bagatelles Véronique Vella | 3 short piano pieces Laura Mjeda Cuperjan | ReMiniScenes

Heitor Villa-Lobos | Hommage à Chopin The concert series is supported by Arts Council Malta under the Programme Support Scheme. Get your tickets from www.showshappening.com

Malta Society of Arts, Republic Street, Valletta

Krishna’s Album Launch – ‘Headless’

Krishna will be hosting an album launch for their sophomore album, ‘Headless’. ‘Headless’ is the follow up to 2016’s ‘Seeker of Light’, and sees a drastic change in the set up and dynamics of the band, with Timothy Garrett taking on guitar duties and drummer Alan Formosa holding down the percussive end. The band will perform the album in its entirety during the launch, premiering the piece live for the 1st time since they began writing. Prior to Krishna’s performance, Eyes to Argus will be taking the stage to perform a supporting set of music from their ‘in habit’ record, as well as some new pieces.

Concert Hall of the Malta Society of Arts, Palazzo de La Salle, 219, Republic Street, Valletta

The popular children’s festival will return to Blue Box yet again and will see school students get the chance to cast aside all day to day distractions and fully commit to working with leading theatre directors to produce brand new adaptations of popular theatre classics to a public audience! This unique festival by children, for children, offers students the opportunity to not only develop their creativity and talent but create theatre under the watchful eye and expertise of the very best tutors and directors in the business, allowing them to get a real taste of what it’s like to work in the real world of theatre making. From costume design, makeup and lights to set dressing and props making, these children will get to do it all! Get your tickets from www.showshappening.com

M Space, Msida, Malta

Lordi Live in Concert

Finnish metal monsters Lordi were formed in the '90s, led by lead singer, songwriter, visual art and costumer designer, Mr Lordi. Famed for their international breakthrough by winning the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest with Hard Rock Hallelujah, the band will grace us with their presence during the Rock’N Malta festival this March. Get your tickets from www. showshappening.com

Aria Complex, San Gwann

Trikki Trakki Festival 2023 25,26

ART AND CULTURE

We’ve pulled together a rundown of promising arts and culture events to stir the senses this March

Unseen and Unheard 9-12

Free Spirit #2

Maria Cassar is using her ‘intuition’, ‘freedom’, and ‘imagination’ to look further away from what she can physically see and enunciates intangible emotions onto the canvas. She artistically translates her inner impulses into geometric shapes and gestural marks which have no source at all in the external visual reality. The works reveal a continuous dialogue between light and shade, void and presence.

The exhibition will feature a range of abstract works showcasing the artist’s fascination with colour. In her own words ‘Colour represents and emits light in all its glory’. The show will also include a few paintings that portray children in a playful, carefree mood.

Art Galleries of the Malta Society of Arts, Palazzo de La Salle, 219, Republic Street, Valletta

Unseen and Unheard is an exhibition that sheds light on overlooked or previously unrecorded war narratives and microhistories from Malta and elsewhere. It brings together items and artefacts drawn from different collections, with a primary focus on wartime experiences of women and girls. The exhibition was inspired by a series of conversations between the Storm Petrel Foundation and Dr Robert Attard. Dr Attard had found a collection of letters written by a young German woman during the Second World War, some of which will be on display in the exhibition, together with other artefacts from a number of collections. For more information visit www.stormpetrelfoundation.org

The Storm Petrel Foundation, Triq Sant Anton, Attard

The solo exhibition by ceramist Joseph Agius focuses on various aspects of life. The exhibition title is meant as a tongue-in-cheek or sarcastic comment to highlight the alienation that we are surrounded with and the ‘laissez-faire’ way of life that we are so used to live in. The aspects tackled are various and origin from different strata of life as well as from different countries. The sculptures presented in this collection are all executed in ceramics, a signature medium for Agius who has been working for over 30 years and all come with very evocative titles, which is very typical and expected of Agius’s provocative works.

Il-Kamra ta' Fuq, Mqabba

C'est La Vie: Sculpture Exhibition

WHAT’CHU LOOKING AT?, WHO YOU SPEAKING WITH?: A GAZING ALL AROUND

This exhibition of contemporary art will explore the intricate entity of Africa through the eyes of contemporary African artists. A two-way gaze of reflexivity and shared understanding through artistic investigation will provide a look into the lived realities across the continent.

Exhibition On Screen: Mary Cassatt: Painting The Modern Woman

An on screen exhibition released to coincide with International Women’s Day.

Mary Cassatt made a career painting the lives of the women around her. Her radical images showed them as intellectual, feminine and real, which was a major shift in the way women appeared in art. Presenting her astonishing prints, pastels and paintings, this film introduces us to the often-overlooked Impressionist whose own career was as full of contradiction as the women she painted. She printed, sketched, and painted dozens of images of mothers and children yet she never married or had children herself. She was a classically trained artist but chose to join a group of Parisian radicals – the Impressionists – a movement that transformed the language of art. The world’s most eminent Cassatt curators and scholars help tell this riveting tale of great social and cultural change; a time when women were fighting for their rights and the language of art was completely re-written. Mary Cassatt and her modern women were at the heart of it all. Get your tickets from kreattivita.

org

Spazju Kreattiv Cinema, Valletta

2 FEB-

5 MAR

The time awaited by everyone has come and Spazju Kreattiv will once again be doning the carnival colours and will be organising a number of activities in its surroundings. The programme will include an exhibition of carnival costumes as well as the mischievous Qarċilla that has come back to life in recent years.

10 MAR

Space A, Spazju Kreattiv. St James Cavalier, Castille Place Valletta

Atrium, Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier, Valletta

FOOD AND DRINKS

Malta has everything you and your family could wish for on holiday and the cusine is just sometihng else. Here's our pick of food-related activities to keep the whole family entertained

Learn about the use of the tajine that delivers such fantastic flavours, ingredients, spices, as well as how it all comes together. The preparation of the tajine was typically reserved for celebration days, weddings and highly-esteemed guests. Create your own representation of this famous North African dish. Everything will be provided including as an apron as well as the ingredients, and equipment needed for the duration of the session. For more information visit www.mcamalta.com

A cultural celebration through dance, characterised with local ‘Folklore’ performances. Enjoy a Maltese dining experience alongside this authentic tradition. For more information visit tamarija.com

Maltese Rural Cooking Class

Choose this experience for a three-hour hands-on cooking class. You will have the opportunity to cook a full blown menu, from appetiser to dessert, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients. Whilst every dish will be introduced by a family story or a local tradition, you will learn the tricks of my grandmother’s traditional cooking. You will discover the secrets of the local peasant country cooking. For more information visit diarilbniet.com

Ta’ Marija, Mosta

Folklore dinner Show

Mediterranean Culinary Academy, Naxxar

Tajine Workshop

Diar il-Bniet Farmhouse Kitchen, Dingli

The Taste of Joy Festival

Oh My Malta is teaming up with one of its contributors Emily A. Francis to present The Taste of Joy Festival; a food festival and celebration of her brand new book ‘The Taste of Joy’, a love letter to local farmers and fishermen, which introduces the world to the Mediterranean way of life and Malta specifically.

The food festival will feature farmers and local producers selling their signature local products to everyone to take home as well as homemade nibbles to snack on during the event.

There will also be food and beverage vendors to keep everyone entertained all day long. Live music will be on throughout the day as well as a bouncy castle for the little ones.

Get ready to celebrate Malta’s local produce and the people behind it as well as get your hands on Emily A. Francis’ brand new book, which inlcudes all the information she gathered through her OhMyMalta interviews.

Vincent’s Eco Estate, Mġarr

Valletta Food Tour

Discover the culture and cuisine of this unique Mediterranean island in a food-filled three hour walking trail packed with curious and exciting information by an experienced guide - Graze while you go! The food tours offer a sumptuous glimpse into this world of local restaurants and gourmet food shops and featuring artisan cheeses and crusty bakes from local ovens, rich hand-made chocolates, local wines and local beer. Suitable clothing and sensible footwear are a must as trails will be held in all weather conditions. Tours are only available in English. Book your spot by visiting offbeatmaltafoodtrails.com

Meeting point: Front entrance to St. John’s Co-Cathedral in St. John’s Square

Lebanese Mezze Workshop

This workshop will showcase a range of dishes influenced by Lebanese dishes which will result in a feast of colours and textures bursting with flavours. By the end of the evening a beautiful spread of hummus dip, pita bread, tabbouleh salad, falafel balls, and a tahini dressing will await you together with a glass of wine. What will you learn? What will I learn? Prepare pita bread from scratch Prepare a spread of vegan dishes that can be eaten as a spread or alone Balance a spread of food to include dishes with different textures, temperatures, and flavours Use fresh ingredients and an array of spices to lift any dish to a different level Perform basic knife cuts and techniques Apply kitchen professionalism: timing, cleanliness and organisation For more information visit www.mcamalta.com

Mediterranean Culinary Academy, Naxxar

Fresh Ravioli Workshop

30 MAR

Throughout the evening you will be working together as a team to cook a two-course meal for the both of you, which you will enjoy at the end of the evening with plenty of paired wine. You will learn to make fresh pasta from scratch and have a laugh rolling it out with your cooking buddy. To round off the meal you’ll be making a dessert guaranteed to be a hit with guests this season. Spiced pumpkin cheesecake flavoured with comforting autumnal spices of cinnamon, ginger and clove. For more information visit www.mcamalta.com

Mediterranean Culinary Academy, Naxxar

Bread and Traditional Maltese Ftira Workshop

Embark on a gastronomic journey to learn the art of bread and traditional Maltese ftira making. The baker will teach you how to make the special dough from scratch and guide you all the way to making this delicious creation with sensational toppings. The finale is your very own recipe which you will then bake in the fabulous wood burning oven. For more information visit diarilbniet.com

Diar il-Bniet Farmhouse Kitchen, Dingli

19 MARCH: THE FEAST OF SAINT JOSEPH

Words by Terrence Mifsud

The Feast of St. Joseph is celebrated annually on the 19th of March, and it is one of the most significant religious events in Malta. St. Joseph is considered the patron saint of workers, expectant mothers, fathers, and the Universal Church.

The Feast of St. Joseph is celebrated in various localities across Malta, with each village and town adding its unique touch to the festivities. The celebrations usually start a week before the actual feast day and culminate in a grand procession and fireworks display on the 19th of March. The traditional religious festivities include mass, processions, and the veneration of the statue of St. Joseph.

The statue of St. Joseph is the centrepiece of the celebrations, and it is usually adorned with various decorations, including flowers, ribbons, and lights. The statue is carried through the streets of the village or town, accompanied by a band and a large crowd of devotees. The procession is a sight to behold, with people dressed in traditional costumes and waving flags and banners. The Maltese are famed for their love of food, and the feast is an opportunity to indulge in some delectable traditional foods, including żeppoli, a traditional deep fried choux pastry.

Nevertheless, Malta is not the only country that honors St Joseph on 19 March; other countries with a remarkable Roman Catholic influence, such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, and

Poland, also arrange pre-spring celebrations. The day has been celebrated as a special day since the 10th century AD, and since it falls during Lent, fish is typically substituted for meat on feasting tables.

The biggest celebrations on the day in Malta take place in Rabat and Mdina. While some businesses will close for the Feast of Saint Joseph, the majority of restaurants, cafés, and bars will stay open.

Apart from the religious and cultural celebrations, the Feast of St. Joseph is also an occasion for socializing and having fun. The streets are filled with vendors selling souvenirs and traditional food, and there are various events and activities organised throughout the week.

The celebrations culminate in a spectacular fireworks display, which is a highlight of the feast. Get a glimpse of the Maltese people's love of sky illuminations before, during, and after the processions.

The Feast of St. Joseph is not only a celebration of the patron saint but also a celebration of Maltese culture and traditions. It is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy the festivities, and it is an occasion for Maltese people to showcase their heritage and customs to the rest of the world. The Feast of Saint. Joseph is a one-of-a-kind and spectacular experience that encapsulates Maltese culture and identity.

EXPLORING

RABAT

Words by Terrence Mifsud

Rabat is a charming medieval town located in the Northern Region of Malta. It is one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean and its history dates back to the time of the Phoenicians. The town is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, which are lined with old stone buildings and churches. Over the centuries, Rabat has been inhabited by several civilisations, each of which has left its mark on the town's architecture, culture, and traditions.

Rabat is a Semitic word which can mean "fortified town" or "suburb". The 20th century brought about major developments in Rabat. The quaint town increased its population to around 12,000 after the Second World War. This growth encouraged the construction of new housing areas, such as Tal-Virtu and Għajn Qajjet.

Rabat adjoins the former capital city, Mdina, and a north-western area formed part of the Roman city of Melite until its medieval retrenchment. In the 9th century CE, the Arab forces of the Aghlabid dynasty invaded Malta and took control of Melite. During this time, the town became an important trading centre in the Mediterranean. The Arabs also introduced the Islamic religion to the island, which had a lasting impact on Maltese culture.

Rabat, which was formerly a Mdina suburb, has grown significantly since its prime. This landmark is commonly acknowledged as the birthplace of Maltese Christianity. The Apostle Paul is believed to have resided in the Rabat region after being shipwrecked on the island around 60 AD. Since that time, other religious orders, including the Franciscans, Dominicans, and Augustinians, have established themselves in Rabat. Numerous ruins

may be seen, with early Christian catacombs located underneath the town, engraved with crosses and agape tables.

During the late nineteenth century, Rabat saw the introduction of several new social services, including the construction of the first primary school, the beginning of postal services, the upgrading of spring water, and the beginning of train service between Valletta and Rabat.

A trip to both of Rabat is an absolute must for anyone visiting Malta, as it offers a unique experience and stunning sights. While in Rabat, one might also visit the fortified city of Mdina, renowned for its medieval and baroque architecture and is considered to be one of the finest examples of an ancient walled city in Europe. Rabat, with its vibrant market, antique stores,

and cosy cafés, is also a fantastic spot to learn about Maltese culture and traditions. Consequently, Rabat is well worth a visit, whether you're a history enthusiast or simply searching for a genuine Maltese experience.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN RABAT

VERDALA PALACE

Verdala Palace is an impressive 16th-century hunting lodge located on the outskirts of Rabat. It was constructed in 1586 under the reign of Hugues Loubenx de Verdalle, and it presently serves as the President of Malta's official summer house. The location of Verdala Palace was formerly occupied by a hunting lodge constructed during the tenure of Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Valette in the 1550s or 1560s..

ST. PAUL'S GROTTO

St. Paul's Grotto is located beneath Rabat's serene St. Paul's Cathedral. According to the bible, The grotto was St. Paul's residence during his threemonth visit to Malta in the year 60 A.D. A statue of Saint. Paul was presented to the grotto in 1748 by Grand Master Pinto. St. Paul's Grotto in Rabat was one of the first sites of Christian devotion on the island. Interestingly, Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI both paid the grotto visits in 1990 and 2010, respectively.

WIGNACOURT MUSEUM

ST PAUL'S CATACOMBS

St Paul's Catacombs is a fascinating historic site in the heart of Rabat. It is one of the seven megalithic temples in Malta and is believed to be the oldest free-standing structure in the world.

The catacombs offer a unique experience of exploring the ancient tombs, which are believed to date back to the 4th century BC. Visitors can also admire the beautiful frescoes and decorations that have been preserved over the centuries.

Originally known as 'Wignacourt College,' the Wignacourt Museum was primarily a baroque mansion of the Knights of Malta's Chaplains. It was then transformed into a museum and opened in 1981. The Wignacourt Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits that explore the history and culture of the island. The museum features several permanent and special exhibitions, covering topics such as the history of the Knights of Malta, the island’s geological and archaeological past, and the traditional Maltese culture. The museum also features a cafe and a shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs.

Malta In A Day:

EXPLORING ON A BUDGET

Although Malta is a small island, its size doesn’t restrict it from bursting with sights to see and things to do. Here, we provide a plan of your day in Malta, with locations to visit and eateries to enjoy, all totalling up to €25. Although buses are cheap to use across the islands, fees for modes of transport have not been included

MORNING

Start your day off with a hike on one of Malta’s most naturistic and muchloved trails. What better way to start your day off than with a cost-free and enjoyable activity? One of the most popular hiking trails, Wied il-Għasel, which translates to ‘Valley of Honey’, is located in Mosta, one of Malta’s central localities. Covered in sprawling grass and blooming with flora, you can explore nature and take a breath of fresh air while getting in those steps. Of course, you can go trekking on whichever trail depending on your preference of location, trail difficulty and foot traffic.

Wied il-Għasel

Mdina Gate

Words by Tiana Formosa

BREAKFAST

Once you’ve worked up your appetite, make your way to the town centre of Mosta and visit one of its many cafes. If you’re after something sweet and delicious to regain your energy levels, ‘Cafe Italiano’ serves plenty of Italian sweets and cakes with coffee, teas and other beverages. Indulge in their special deal of coffee and a croissant for only €3.00.

While in the area, make sure to visit one of the best known churches in Malta; the Mosta Dome. This large basilica is the most prominent building in Mosta and features the fourth largest dome in the world, boasting impressive architectural features and displaying a replica of the World War II bombshell that crashed through the dome but did not detonate upon impact.

LATE MORNING

When your hunger has been satisfied, you can make your way over to the neighbouring city of Mdina with the 186 bus route and go sightseeing. Mdina: The Silent City, Malta’s former capital city, is always a must-see when visiting the island. A fortified city overlooking fields, neighbouring localities and far as the eye can see ocean views. With plenty of historic landmarks to see, take the time to explore the city and experience the quaint village that looks over the island. Also, whilst there, check out ‘The Knights of Malta Experience’. Tickets for The Knights of Malta are €6.50 for adults. This experience captures the tales of the lives of the Crusader Knights and retells the story with the use of special 3D effects and life-like statues.

After exploring the city and travelling back in time, if you’re tired and need to rest your legs, take the time to enjoy a classic and tasty Maltese lunch.

Right outside the Mdina gates, you’ll find cult classic ‘Is-Serkin-Crystal Palace’ which serves daily made fresh pastizzi, qassatat and ftira. To indulge in true Maltese cuisine, wash your lunch down with a nice refreshing local beer. Get two delicious pastizzi and a Kinnie for only €2.50

Pastizzi

Mdina

LATE AFTERNOON/EVENING

After satisfying your hunger and quenching your thirst, it’s onto the next activity. With just a seven-minute walk away from Is-Serkin, check out the catacombs of St. Paul in Rabat. Go underground and walk through the narrow rock formations and paths to uncover the history of Christianity in Malta and its largest archaeological evidence. Tickets are €6.00 for adults.

Once your tour of the Catacombs is complete, head back to the Mdina gates where you can take the 201 bus route to Ħad-Dingli. Once arrived, you can look at and admire the Magdalene Chapel and its almost 400 years of history. By this time, the day slowly turns into night and to further utilise the day, take the opportunity to view the stunning sunset from the Dingli Cliffs. As the cliffs are the highest point in Malta, you’ll have an extremely elevated view of the sun slowly setting behind the horizon. With no obstructions in sight, the ocean, sun, islet of Filfa and the tiny rock of Filfoletta will also disappear into the night leaving you mesmerised and in awe of the absolute beauty that is the Maltese sunsets.

EVENING-DINNER

After the darkness has begun to set in, your hunger probably has too. Make your way to the town centre of Ħad-Dingli where you can visit one of the many restaurants. Bringing you Mediterranean cuisine, with traditional Maltese dishes, is ’35 North’. Offering an extensive range of foods throughout their menu, you can find one suited for you at an affordable price. For a delicious and filling meal, the homemade beef burger, which is only €5.50, is a good choice.

After a day of sightseeing, walking and eating, the total of the day’s spending comes to €23.50.

Catacombs of St. Paul

A DAY IN GOZO

Words by Tiana Formosa

Gozo - the smaller and more relaxed sister island of Malta, holds a rich history, with an abundance of eateries, landmarks, beaches, hiking trails and fun activities to take part in. If you’re visiting the island on holiday or live in either Malta or Gozo and need some guidance or inspiration on things to do, this is the article for you. We’ll take you through a day plan of exciting places to visit and delicious places to eat at, starting from breakfast in the morning and finishing with dinner in the evening.

MORNING AND BREAKFAST

First things first – breakfast. When waking up, you’d want a nutritious, tasty and filling meal to suffice you until lunchtime, especially if you’re planning on sightseeing and travelling a great deal in between those times. Located in the heart of Victoria - the capital of Gozo, you will find a cute and unique café. Café Jubilee opened in Victoria in 1998 and ever since, they have served high-quality and delicious food catering to a wide range of preferences.

Their breakfast menu is far from boring, as they offer a generous selection to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for toast, crumpets, pancakes, eggs or something healthy such as almond-flour pancakes or porridge, Café

Jubilee won’t leave you disappointed. Even serving pasta, delicious salads and burgers from 10:00 am, Café Jubilee pulls no stops in serving its customers the best foods at any time of day. Pair your breakfast with a delicious coffee or tea and as they carry soya, oat, almond and coconut milk along with regular and lactose-free milk, everyone can enjoy without feeling left out.

MORNING STROLL & SIGHT-SEEING - CITTADELLA

Once you’ve filled up on breakfast, take it easy and stroll through the main street in the capital, where you will find plenty of shops, serving a range of goods. Whilst there, check out The Duke Shopping Mall, where you’ll find boutique shops, sneaker shops, a supermarket and a beauty shop amongst many other stores. Just behind where you enjoyed breakfast, you’ll find the ever-so historical Cittadella, which in Maltese is Iċ-Ċittadella. High up and visible from almost the entirety of Gozo, The Cittadella is a definite must-see when on the island. It is home to a large number of museums and sights to see, such as:

- The Gozo Nature Museum

- The Cathedral Museum

- The Old Prison

- The Grain Silos

The fortified city was used for both residency and safety/ protection purposes. Throughout the Roman and Phoenician periods, The Cittadella was known as the blooming city of ‘Gaulcouis Civitas’ before the Knights of the Order of St. John arrived and it became a residency location just after the Neolithic times. Nowadays, only a couple of families reside on The Cittadella grounds, allowing the area to still have an eery and historic feel as you explore every inch and travel back in time.

AN AFTERNOON IN XLENDI WITH ICE-CREAM

Once you have taken a journey through and discovered the many museums and breathtaking views overlooking the island and Mediterranean sea, it’s time to venture out and explore the rest of Gozo.

With all the major roads around the island connecting back to

the capital city, you can never get lost. From Victoria, you can take the 306 bus route which will take you to Xlendi, or if you’re driving, simply input Xlendi and let the GPS guide you there. Located in the southwestern region of Gozo, the village of Xlendi is surrounded by beautiful clear waters and is home to delicious restaurants. You can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and open areas to take walks to get a view of the Gozo way of living – some say it’s even more laid back than the Maltese way. You can then dig into a tasty and fresh meal from one of the many restaurants available right on the water. Being so close to the sea, you can expect fresh seafood along with pasta, main meals, vibrant salads and to-diefor burgers. If you’re after a different cuisine, worry not as you can also find restaurants specialising in other cuisines as well, such as Sapana Indian Cuisine. If the sun is beaming down and it’s a glorious, hot day, you can indulge in plenty of ice cream, sorbet and gelati that are found conveniently around the area. Popular ice cream outlet ‘Gelateria Gelato’ offers an extremely large range of flavours – where almost any flavour you can think of or crave, is available. Offering traditional and classic flavours to ones that are unique and special, there’ll be something for everyone. After you’ve eaten lunch and maybe finished it off with delicious ice cream, it’s back to sightseeing.

VISITING GĦARB & GĦASRI

From Xlendi, you’re going up north. You can take the 306 bus route to get back to the capital and then the 308 which will directly stop you out the front of another must-see popular site. The bus will stop you right in front of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta’ Pinu. This historic and culturally-rich church is a landmark which thousands of tourists visit each year for blessing and to take part in its traditional

Xlendi

Citadel

mass. Construction on the church began between 1920 and 1931 but its origins and history date back even further to the 1600s when a much smaller chapel occupied the land. When you’ve explored the church, travel only slightly north until you reach Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse. Simply insert the lighthouse into your GPS and after nine minutes, you’ll be at the designated car-parking area. You can only get so far with your car until you have to hike up the narrow path to reach the lighthouse – but trust us, it’ll be worth the walk when you reach it. The lighthouse was built in 1851 to accommodate ocean traffic, specifically for trade or naval purposes. Whilst you’re up there, you’ll get to overlook endless fields and the stunning Mediterranean sea – a win-win of sightseeing and scenic views.

THE SALT PANS, ŻEBBUĠ

Once you’ve taken in the views and want something a little more relaxed and perhaps not-so-high up, drive or get the 308 bus route back to Victoria and then the 310 bus. You will pass through the village of Marsalforn but will then need to walk to the Salt Pans, located just northwest of the village. Located in the locality of Żebbuġ, you’ll see the harvesting fields of checkerboard-patterned squares. This site is of incredible importance, as this practice has been part of Gozitan culture for hundreds of years as salt is one of Gozo’s major raw materials. Sharing the same period as The Cittadella thriving, the processing of salt through the system of evaporation, dates back to the Phoenician and Roman times. Whilst there, you can visit the ‘Natural Xwejni Sea Salt Shop’ where you can taste the salt that was produced just across the street whilst learning more about this trade, thanks to salt farmers, Manuel and his wife Rosa Cini and their daughter Josephine Xuereb.

Photo: Paul Herrera

Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse

Ta' Pinu

MARSALFORN & DINNER

On the final stretch of the day, you can drive to Marsalforn, which is an easy four-minute drive from the Salt Pans. With plenty of restaurants to choose from, it will simply come down to personal preference. To make it easier for you, we recommend Pebbles Café, as they offer many dishes such as burgers, salads, fresh seafood, pizza and grilled main courses. They also offer gluten-free burger buns, bread and pizza bases for those who would prefer. You can then finish off the meal with one of their many desserts or a nice glass of wine, to compliment your dinner.

By this time of day, the sun has set and tiredness has perhaps started to wash over you. Take the time to drive or take the bus back to your apartment, hotel or ferry services in Mġarr to safely get you back to Malta.

Marsalforn

Salt Pans

A SPOTLIGHT ON MALTESE ENDEMIC FLORA

Words by Terrence Mifsud

Malta might be regarded as a tiny island in the heart of the Mediterranean with little to no biodiversity, but it is home to a diverse and unique range of endemic flora. These

plants, found nowhere else in the world, have adapted to the island's harsh climate and rocky terrain, creating a unique and beautiful landscape that is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature.

One of the most striking examples of Maltese endemic flora is the Maltese Rock-Centaury (Cheirolophus crassifolius) or Widnet il-Baħar, a low-growing herbaceous perennial from the Daisy

Maltese Rock-Centaury

family, which was declared Malta’s national plant in 1971. It produces beautiful pink-purple flowers that bloom in the summer, attracting a variety of pollinators. This plant is a survivor, growing in the harsh rocky terrain of the Maltese islands, where it must endure strong winds, salt spray, and extreme temperatures. It grows as a shrub up to 50 cm tall, with spatula-shaped leaves that are generally smooth. The flowering period takes place between May and July.

The Maltese Rock-Centaury is a symbol of resilience, and its bright flowers are a reminder of the beauty that can be found in the most unlikely of places. Due to its limited distribution and vulnerability to habitat destruction, the Maltese Rock-Centaury is considered a critically endangered species and is protected under Maltese law.

The Maltese Sea Lavender (Limonium melitense) is a hardy, salt-tolerant species that grows in the rocky coastal areas of Malta and Gozo. Its delicate lilac flowers bloom in the summer months, creating a beautiful contrast against the rugged coastal landscape. Sea lavender is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to generate vibrant, long-lasting colours in hot or dry areas. The Maltese Sea Lavender is a testament to the adaptability of nature.

Pyramidal Orchid is particularly striking, with its pyramid-shaped flower spikes that can grow up to 50 centimetres tall. It’s characterised by its ornate flowers, which resemble a spider and are pollinated by male insects who are deceived by their scent and appearance.

preserving and protecting our natural world. These plants, found nowhere else in the world, are a unique and beautiful part of the Maltese landscape, and a symbol of the island's rich cultural and environmental heritage.

The Maltese islands are also home to a range of endemic orchids, including the Maltese Pyramidal Orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis) and the Maltese Spider Orchid (Ophrys melitensis). These delicate and intricate flowers bloom in the spring months, adding a splash of colour to the island's rocky terrain. The Maltese

One of the rarest species found on the Maltese islands is the Sea Squill, ‘għansar’ in Maltese (Drimia pancration). It is a bulbous plant that typically grows in rocky areas and sandy soils along the coast. From the bulb emerges a tall, thick stem that can grow up to one meter in height. The stem is topped with a large inflorescence, which consists of a cluster of small, fragrant, white or pinkish flowers that bloom in the late summer or early autumn. As with many other plant species, Sea Squill is also threatened by habitat loss and over-collection, and its populations have declined in some areas. The Maltese Islands' Squill is a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting these unique and fragile species for future generations. This particular plant may be referred to as subendemic, as there is a rather extensive range in the central Mediterranean.

The Maltese endemic flora is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature and a reminder of the importance of

Maltese Pyramidal Orchid

Photo Credit: Leslie Vella

Sea Squill

altese Sea Lavender

BREWING CRAFT BEER IN MALTA

Huskie Craft Beer Company: Malta in a Bottle! Craft beer…isn’t it grand? What makes craft beer different from a more commercial beer brand? Generally speaking, craft beers use a higher quality of ingredients, offer more varieties in terms of flavours and craft beer tends to be more unique. This is often why the price point tends to be higher than a commercially produced beer. So many different varieties of craft beer to choose from around the world. Yet, not too many from Malta, specifically. This happens to be an avenue that very few become successful at turning their brewing dreams into a reality.

Allow me to introduce the co-founders of the Huskie Craft Beer Company, Jean Bickle and Miguel Camilleri. They are one of the few radiant success stories behind brewing high-quality craft beer who managed to turn it into a thriving and successful local business! What I was looking for when I began my search for local beer, I wanted to find a

brewing brand that was brewed locally in Malta. What I found out in this interview is how extensive the process is; especially since nothing except the water itself is found locally (due to the extreme heat and wind it is not possible to grow wheat, hops or barley here). Every part of their process must be imported except for the water. Even the water must be boiled and concentrated to get to the desired Ph levels they need in order to maintain the quality and freshness of the products. Finding the best ingredients and being able to get them to Malta requires precision and dedication to put it all together and make it work.

Huskie Craft Beer Company was created

Words by Emily Francis

out of a demand for the island’s craft beer connoisseurs and required the minds of these two brilliant scientists. That was precisely their key to making that happen. Jean and Miguel met in Leeds, UK while both working as Nuclear Medicine Physicists. After work, they would join up and enjoy the wide selection of craft beers in the UK. Once they were both back living in Malta, they realised quickly that the demand for fine craft beer in Malta might be something they may want to join together to bring to the island. All while keeping their day jobs. They began in the garage with a few stainless-steel tanks and proceeded to experiment. Ultimately, it was the science of brewing and flavouring that attracted them to make craft beers that would excite the senses and foster the

highest quality ingredients. They wanted to create something that they could be proud of. If there is one thing I have learned through these interviews with the local farmers and food growers is that the Maltese take very seriously feeding friends and families with the very best that the island can offer.

Jean and Miguel began working on creating Huskie Beer in 2017 and it has only really grown into a major distribution of locally brewed beers in the years post-Covid. To date, you can find Huskie Beer in over 120 stores or restaurants around Malta and Gozo! Their five standard bottles of beer consist of:

1) Alpha: (their very first beer for public

consumption) is an IPA.

2) Old Boy: Oak-Aged American Pale Ale

3) Chaos: Stout

4) Mosaic: S.M.A.S.H Pale Ale

5) Baby Face: Pale Ale with a lower alcohol percentage

You can order a six-pack or a mixed case of 15 and mix and match your preferred options. Huskie Beer can also be ordered for delivery!

Look for Huskie Craft Beer Company at our Taste of Joy Festival March 11th at Vincent’s Eco Farm in Mgarr from 11-5 For more informationvisit

huskiecraftbeer.com

TAKE ME HOME

We’re sad to see you go but to make your departure a little bit sweeter, we’ve compiled a list of all things Maltese, which you should definitely make space in your

HANDBUILT CERAMICS

The signature style of the artist Martina Farrugia - the handbuilt ceramics, tastefully decorated with artistic doodles - can be recoginsed without a miss and will make for a unique souvenir from your trip to Malta.

COOL PRINT

This print is inspired by the seven Maltese cockerels who hang around by the fig tree below the artist’s balcony in Gozo. Ed Dingli is a Maltese illustrator and activist, currently based in Portugal.

HARDBACK NOTEBOOKS

Designer treat. This hardback notebook consists of 3 different colours of collected paper which makes sectioning your notes and doodles much easier. Entirely handcrafted in Malta.

Inspired by the Nishikigoi, this square tray will elevate every setting it is placed in. Every trey is individually handmade in Form Matters workshop in Qormi.

You'll definitely be tempted to get one or two of the postcards before leaving Malta. Whether it's for yourself or a friend, Cardsy offers an artistic and melancholic view of Maltese islands.

LEATHER TOTE BAG

The Reial Tote Bag. This multi-purpose, stylish, statement tote bag is the first of its kind from fold. Designed to fit a laptop, notepads, and all your other must-have items, it’s the perfect accessory for going back to the office, or to accompany you from one meeting to another.

SEASALT CHOCOLATE

Only a handful of Maltese salt pans, locally referred to as salini, remain today. This chocolate bar is the rendition of timeless, age-old craft of salt farmers, who have harvested salt traditionally for over 400 years.

Guide curated by IL-LOKAL, a community of local designers, artists and independent brands. Visit their gift shop at Old Bakery Street in Valletta to discover what Malta’s creative talent has to offer. www.il-lokal.com

SERVICES

FERRIES

Cirkewwa, Malta – Mgarr, Gozo

Operates daily

Departure time: Approx. every 30 mins

From 12am – 23:15pm

Crossing time: Approx. 25 mins

Cirkewwa Malta - Blue

Lagoon

Operates daily

Departure time: Approx. Every 30 mins

From 8:30am – 5:30pm

3 Cities – Valletta

Operates daily

Departure time: Approx. every 15 mins

Monday – Saturday from 6:45am –23:30pm

Sundays & public holidays from 9:00am – 23:30pm

Sliema – Valletta ferry

Operates daily

Departure time: Approx. Every 15 mins

Monday – Saturday from 6:45am –11:45pm

Sunday & public holidays from 8:45am – 11:45pm

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

Fexserv Financial Services Ltd

Alpine House, Triq In-Naxxar, San

Gwann

+356 2576 2576

Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 8.30am – 6pm, Saturday from 9am12.30pm

MEDICAL SERVICES

Mater Dei Hospital

+356 2545 0000

Triq Dun Karl, Imsida

Opening hours: 24/7

St. James Hospital

+356 2329 1000

Triq Gorg Borg Olivier, Sliema

St James Square, Zabbar

Opening hours: 24/7

Floriana Health Centre

+356 2124 3314

F.S. Fenech Street, Floriana

Opening hours: 24/7

Gozo Health Centre (Victoria)

+ 356 2215 6820

Triq Enrico Mizzi, Victoria, Gozo

Opening hours: Monday-Sunday

07:00-20:00

CAR RENTAL

GoTo Car Sharing

Car Sharing Services Malta Ltd, Mdina Road, Zebbug, ZBG 9017, Malta

TAXI SERVICES

Cool Ride-Pooling

+356 2014 7600

eCabs

+3562138 3838

HAIR SALONS

Toni&Guy

+356 2138 0129

7, Uqija Street, Ibrag Swieqi, Opening hours: Monday – Saturday from 10am – 7pm