FEBRUARY 2022 AUTUMN 2020
If there’s one thing you should know about Maltese people – and we are fully aware that this is a gross generalisation – they are not fans of the cold. A few degrees cooler than the norm and we tend to huddle up on our couches and binge-watch series until the sun pokes its head out again. On the off-chance that you are either a cold-loving Maltese or a foreigner looking for alternative means of entertainment, this is definitely the issue for you. Though you will almost certainly come across beautifully sunny days during your stay in February, it’s highly likely that rainy or at the very least, windy days will dominate your week. Not to worry though, this issue of Oh My Malta is jam-packed with things you can fill your days with. In addition to our in-depth calendar of events catering for the entire month, we focus on a myriad of things you can do, ranging from celebrating the feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck, to carnival, to top adorable cafes you can sip some tea in. Speaking of carnival, did you know it’s been celebrated in Malta since the 1500s? Get to know the truth behind the boisterous, colourful celebrations. Embrace a local recipe and sit back and absorb all that the Mediterranean Culinary Academy has to say about Maltese food and cooking. When you’re done with learning about local food, why not take the fast ferry or the traditional ferry over to Malta’s sister island of Gozo, to check out the beautiful village of Nadur. Follow our tailor-made guide of the village, as you discover stunning forts, museums and quiet, red-sanded beaches. With regards to the on-going pandemic, Malta is one of the safest places in Europe to be at the moment, what with its high vaccination and booster rates. Measures and restrictions have also been eased, primarily for those who have been vaccinated, making Malta the place to be (and feel safe while doing so) this month. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Xlendi, Gozo
The number of students enrolled with the Institute of Tourism Studies at the beginning of the academic year, starting October 2021, was at par with the previous two years, that of 2020 and 2019. It is good to state that the Institute recorded its ever-highest intake in 2020, the year the pandemic hit the world. The scholastic year 2021-2022 saw a total of over 750 students enrolled on full-time basis, starting in October 2021. A marked increase was registered in part-time courses, varying from Higher National Diploma in Tourist Guiding to Master’s Degrees. Throughout this academic year, the Institute will have around 1200 students in total enrolled in both full-time and parttime courses. The Certificate level programmes registered a record intake when compared to previous years. This manifests that there has been an increase in students who have chosen to pursue a career in Tourism and Hospitality, following their secondary education. There has been an
average of a 29% increase from 2020, 7% from 2019 and 41% from 2018 of students who have enrolled with the Institute at this level. The Foundation programme also received a high number of applications, more than the year 2020 and 2018, and at par to 2019. The Institute of Tourism Studies is workng hard to introduce new courses on a regular basis, with the aim of addressing the Industry’s requirements. In 2020, the Institute launched two new courses, the first and only of their kind worldwide – the Diploma in Climate Friendly Travel, aimed to train students to support businesses in the travel and transport industry in adjusting their operations towards the goal of becoming carbon neutral, in the face of the global challenge of climate change. This course is offered completely online and has students from all around the world. This course is offered in collaboration with SUNx Malta and a new cohort is schedule to commence in February 2022.
CLAYTON BARTOLO Minister for Tourism and Consumer Protection
CONTENTS Issue 15 • February 2022 Oh My Malta is a B2B publication, published quarterly 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 Published by
HISTORY AND CULTURE
WHAT'S HAPPENING Coordinating Editors Amy Micallef Decesare Philippa Zammit Sales Coordinator Marisa Schembri mschembri@mediatoday.com.mt Design Amy Micallef Decesare Philippa Zammit Photography James Bianchi Registered Address Vjal ir-Riħan San Gwann SGN9016 Malta Email mschembri@mediatoday.com.mt Contact Number +356 2138 2741 Cover James Bianchi
6 Events happening
around Malta and Gozo
14
Exploring the old capital
19
A 17th century cathedral
20
Game of Thrones locations in malta
22
The Legends of Gozo
28
32
NATURE 26 Up and down Marfa ridge
42
FOOD, FOOD, FOOD
LOCAL TALENT
29 Tomato picking in in
42 Interview with Yana
32 Interview with
46 Take me home
Binġemma
Daniel Pisani
34 Traditional recipe 36 Eateries to help you stay healthy
40 Mdina food tour
Azzopardi
WHAT'S ON 1-12 February
Exhibition: Mareo Rodriguez Portals Valletta Contemporary. 15, 16, 17, Triq Lvant (East Street), Valletta, VLT1253, Malta | 14:00-19:00
'Portals' is presented as a reflection on space, on the possibility of knowing new worlds in the face of that feeling of eternal emptiness, that feeling of uncertainty that, among other things, the pandemic brought to the collective memory in a fresh way and that it is present in our daily events. It is a way of standing in front of the abyss; before infinite possibilities. Mareo Rodriguez's work explores the strength of the topography and natural territory, conceived as an energy living mantle constantly moving; Epidermal stratification wrought by time, with a telluric language emerging, pressing, gravitating, revealing through the landscape. He seeks to cover different scales within his artistic approach, from
the massiveness of the mountains and rocks, through its decanting process and fragmentation up to the stone as the basic unit. He is interested in the matter as condensation of light and its process of transformation and expansion of energy over time, releasing weight to return to the origin. For more information call on +356 21241667 Exhibition is open from Wednesday to Saturday and closed from Sunday to Tuesday.
1-27 February
Art Exhibition: Giorgo Preca ta’ Malta MUŻA, Merchants Street, Valletta | 9:0016:30
Largely unknown outside art circles, Giorgio Preca is widely considered to be one of the foremost pioneers of Maltese modern art. His trailblazing 1948 exhibition at the Phoenicia Hotel in Valletta is said to have imprinted
Portals Modernism on the local scene. In the early post-war years prior to leaving Malta to further his studies in Rome, Preca was employed as a restorer with the Museums Department, where he worked upon a few of the masterpieces from the National Collection. Now some 77 years later, the tables have been reversed, and a team of Heritage Malta curators, conservators and restorers are returning the favour. Twenty-one paintings, four drawings, and six ceramic objects that Preca used for some of his still lifes have been loaned to Heritage Malta by the artist’s family and restored in time to participate in an exhibition at MUŻA that has bee running since the 3rd December 2021 up until 27 February 2022. Much of the artwork which travelled from Rome -Preca’s home from 1956 until his demise in 1984- has never been displayed in public, making it a fitting first for the author’s place of birth.
Giorgo Preca ta’ Malta
The exhibition, which has been in the pipeline for a few years now, is the result of the goodwill established between Heritage Malta’s and Preca’s family, and a shared interest in doing justice to Giorgio’ Preca’s legacy. The exhibition is open every day except Monday and Thursday between 9 am and 4.30 pm
1-28 February
Medieval Malta Exhibition Series National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta | 9:00-16:30
Heritage Malta is inviting you to delve into the uncharted yet mesmerising medieval millennium of Gozo, in its newly launched exhibition ‘An Island in Transition 700 to 1700AD’ at the National Museum of Archaeology in Valletta. The second event in the MEDIEVAL MALTA EXHIBITION SERIES, this exhibition aims to promote greater appreciation of our medieval heritage, through four main themes of medieval culture: maritime trade, art, the rural landscape and artisanal production. The exhibition will be open everyday except Mondays and Thursdays from 9.00hrs to 16.30hrs.
2 February
Beer Tasting Beer Head, 160, 21st September Avenue, Naxxar | 19:30
Beer Head is both a craft beer bottle shop and a craft beer tasting room with seating and beers on draft! The new beers come from Deschutes (USA), Avery (USA) and Flying Dutchman (NL), three are world-class breweries that constantly produce some amazing beers and we are very excited to share these with you. Bar snacks included in price. Get your tickets from beerhead.mt
3-24 February
Imitari MMXXII – Exhibition by Paul Ellul Art Galleries of the Malta Society of Arts, Palazzo de La Salle, 219, Republic Street, Valletta
In Paul Ellul’s words, here’s what the exhibition is all about: “Photography is, simply put, just another art form, using technology to capture that unique moment in time – forever. Joseph Calleja and Andrea Bocelli
Now, depending on the author’s commitment, the result speaks for itself.
Beer Tasting Entrance is free.
4 February
SR Club Nights | Funk Shack ft. Shay Who Storeroom, Ix-Xatt ta' Ta' Xbiex, Ta' Xbiex | 20:00
'Funk Shack' is a way of reconnecting with some of the most danceable music which originated in African-American communities in the mid-1960s when musicians created a new rhythmic form of music through a mixture of soul, jazz, and R&B. Come down to Storeroom for another special session by DJ Shay Who, and help celebrate the genius of this music. Entrance is free.
4-13 February
Art by Yasmina M Space, Oscar Zammit Street, Msida
Serge has paid a huge amount of money for a work of contemporary art: a completely white painting. Marc hates the painting and cannot believe that any friend of his could possibly want it. Yvan attempts, unsuccessfully, to placate both sides. As battle lines are drawn and a 15-year friendship is pushed to breaking point, the three are forced to ask: What is the value of art, of friendship, of money? Are you who you are or who your friends think you are?
Medieval Malta Exhibition Series
Traditional Maltese Ftira Workshop 5 February
Traditional Maltese Ftira Making Workshop Diar il-Bniet, Triq il-Kbira, Dingli | 11:30
Embark on a gastronomic journey to learn the art of the traditional Maltese ftira. The chef 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 a fabulous wood burning oven. WhatsTheirNames Theatre announced their presence on the Maltese scene with their first production of Art back in 2010. Now, older and not in the least bit wiser, the company behind the everpopular Shakespeare in the Pub (and Garden) series returns with another go at this hilarious, widely acclaimed comedy by Yasmina Reza. This project is supported by Arts Council Malta and directed by Malcolm Galea. Get your tickets from bluebox. azurewebsites.net
After the workshop the team invites you to sit down and enjoy your delicious creation in the restaurant together surrounded with music and a glass of their house wine. For more information call on +356 27620727 or send an email to info@ diarilbniet.com
5 February
waX // Ron Albrecht / Phil
Berg The Club House at Gianpula Village, Gianpula Road, Rabat
The organisers are delighted to present their first waX event for 2022 with a solid line-up guaranteed to set the dancefloor on fire. Ron Albrecht began his musical career in the early nineties. His first trips to Berlin clubs like Tresor, Bunker and E-Werk made him switch from being a regular music consumer to discovering the field of performing and DJ-ing. Over the years he played his music in almost every club in MecklenburgVorpommern, various festivals, as well as appearances at all the major techno clubs, such as Tresor Berlin, Ultraschall Munich, Phonodrome and Waagenbau Hamburg, Muna Bad Klosterlausnitz and Berghain Berlin. Awarded the 2019 Raving Spoon award for the perfect closing set alongside DVS1, Ben Klock, Freddy K, and Vincent Neumann, Ron's sounds represent Oldskool and Newskool mixed to perfection. Phil Berg stands for quality. The elusive young DJ and producer takes listeners on a progressive minimalistic techno trip, utilizing groovy modern tracks with funky old-school cuts in order to build a dramatic curve of tension throughout the night. With productions on Hayes, Secession, Schimmer Records, Syxt and Frenzy, Phil's releases have reached the masses and carried his name far beyond his native hometown of Mainz. Now a resident for the Berlin collective BCCO and for Schimmer Records in Stuttgart, Phil has been getting exposure in Berlin as well as Amsterdam (for Vault Sessions). Silk also marks his debut for waX, while resident Gordon Flash completes a top-quality line-up for an explosive waX 2022 opening night! Limited number of tickets are available online.
Garmin NationalChampionships XFACTOR Live Shows
5 February
Garmin National Championships Maghtab Stables, Maghtab
The Garmin National Championships, sponsored by @Garmin Malta is made up of eight competitions; four in dressage and four in show jumping. You can find more information on how points are accumulated to find the national champion and entry fees and how to enter and make payment on: www.maltaequestrianfederation.org
XFactorLive Shows
and producer who started off by playing at rave parties and after-hours around Frankfurt. He recently released his first single on the Frankfurt-based label Paranormal Eight. Entrance is free.
6 February
Qrendi Walking Tour Parish Church of the Assumption, Qrendi | 13:30
5 February
SR Club Nights | BONAIR Storeroom, Ix-Xatt ta' Ta' Xbiex, Ta' Xbiex | 21:00
Bonair is a German, Malta-based DJ
The tour will take you along paths in the agricultural areas of the village of Qrendi. You will visit a beautiful natural area called 'Il-Maqluba' filled with endemic and indigenous trees. Joseph Calleja Andreathe Bocelli You will also be and visiting medieval chapel by the edge of the sink hole which goes back to the 15th century and the larger one which both are dedicated to St. Matthew.
You'll continue along the streets of the village which are peppered with medieval buildings. One such structure is the Octagonal Tower or 'It-Torri tal-Mishun' dating back to the 15th century. You'll walk by more chapels and palaces which belonged to the Knights of St. John. The walk will continue with a visit to a unique WW2 shelter and you'll have a little treat after that! A hidden passage will lead you to the Lourdes Band Club from where you can have a hot or cold beverage and something to eat if you like! Guests are advised to come with a comfortable shoes. The cost of the tour is of €12 per person which also include entrances to the chapels and shelter as well. For more information call on +356 99885622
6, 12 February
XFactor Live Shows MFCC, Ta' Qali
Aspiring vocal contestants will battle it out to clinch their place in the final, which will be held on Saturday, February 12th. As usual, drama, excitement,
Qrendi Walking Tour
disappointment, tears and cheers will runthrough the live shows in a venue that will accommodate all audiences in socially distanced seating arrangements (always in line with health authority protocols at the time). Get your tickets from www. showshappening.com
6 February
International Board Games Meetup Is-Suq tal-Belt, Merchant Street, Valletta
A 3-hour activity where participants are invited to play a different type of board games, or the board games of their choice in a friendly environment. Participants are also welcome to bring their own games. This activity is both for advanced and beginners, and a tutorial is given by our volunteers in case one does not know how to play a game.
Wied Qirda Trail 6 February
Exploring Wied Qirda Trail St Ignatius’ College Qormi Parking
After giving a brief introduction to all the participants, everyone will be divided in groups of six and together, everyone will set off on a rocky adventure trough this lovely hiking trail. A mask and vaccination are required. It is advisable that participants wear appropriate walking/ trekking shoes. This hike is organised by Klabb360.
Tickets are 12 euro. For more information call on +35679222001
9 February
Glitch Club Series: Trym Liquid Club, San Gwann
The French DJ, producer, label head and Possession resident shares a unique coloured, dreamlike and powerful musical universe. His shows are intense,
This games event is popular both between a group of families and friends and even for individuals who want to interact with new people. Those who would like to book the activity they can do so by sending a donation by Paypal to doorartists@ gmail.com , by Revolut on +35679055933
La Voix Competition
6 February
La Voix Singers Competition Qawra Palace Hotel, Dawret Il-Qawra, Qawra
One of the main scopes of this Singers Competition is to try and ensure that each participant has the opportunity to compete with participants of the same age thereabouts, and as a result a specifically designated system of sections has been created. The jury panel will represent three genres of music; Classical, Pop and Soul. Following the end of each category, prizes are to be given to those who finish in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th
Licorice Pizza Photo: Paul Herrera
Overall & Overall Runner Up after each section.
characterised by a mixture of Techno, Fast Techno, Hard House, Hard Dance and Early Hardstyle, all mixed together with remarkable ease. Be ready. Get your tckets from club.glitchfestival. com
10, 11, 13 February
Licorice Pizza Spazju Kreattiv Cinema, St James Cavalier, Castille Palace, Valletta | 18:00
“Licorice Pizza” is the story of Alana Kane and Gary Valentine growing up, running around, and falling in love in the San Fernando Valley, 1973. Written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film tracks the treacherous navigation of first love.
MET Encore: Rigoletto MFCC, Attard
Thomas Anders from Modern Talking and band will be playing LIVE in concert. The band’s most popular hits include "You're My Heart, You're My Soul", "Cheri, Cheri Lady", ‘No Face, No Name, No Number’, ‘Brother Louie’ and more. Vaccination certification is required to make this event safe. All areas will be in bubbles and socially distanced as requested by the Local Health Authorities.
The Humans
Get your tickets from www.kreattivita. org
11 February
Strictly Commercial Live Thirsty Barber, Triq Ball, St Julians
Malta’s first 1920’s prohibition style bar has been open for 4 years and continues to delight guests with the finest cocktails this side of Manhattan!
11 February
Sound Bath journey within vibrations Lotus Room Yoga Centre, 82-46 Triq ILQamh, Ħaż-Żebbuġ
Dive into the beautiful vibrations of Sound Bath. Relax into the healing sounds of various instruments designed to calm your thoughts and soothe your mind as you journey into the heart of sound where healing vibrations and sensations will weave their magic over and through you.
Rigoletto St James Cavalier, Valletta
Tony Award winning director Bartlett Sher creates a bold new take on Verdi’s timeless tragedy, resetting the opera’s action in 1920s Europe, with Art Deco sets by Michael Yeargan and elegant costumes by Catherine Zuber. Baritone Quinn Kelsey, a commanding artist at the height of his powers, brings his searing portrayal of the title role to the Met for the first time, starring alongside soprano Rosa Feola as Gilda and tenor Piotr Beczała as the Duke of Mantua, with leading maestro Daniele Rustioni on the podium. Get your tickets from www.kreattivita.org
14 February
Modern Talking Live in Concert
Get your tickets from www.ticketline. com.mt as a restricted number of tickets are available to the general public.
15 February
CineXjenza| Radioactive Spazju Kreattiv Cinema, St James Cavalier, Castille Palace, Valletta | 19:00
The event is a film screening followed by a discussion. Women have always been disregarded in the scientific world, with lack of opportunities and recognition for their scientific discoveries. Countless women have fought for their voices to be heard to get to where we are nowadays. In honour of such brave women, S-Cubed in Collaboration with the Malta Chamber of Scientists, STEAM and Spazju Kreattiv will be
Modern Talking Live in Concert
13 February
MET Encore: Squid Game
Paella Workshop Looking for the perfect one-pan sharing dish that can be recreated with your favourite types of meat and seafood? Pair up with your partner or friend to learn how to make Paella using rabbit, chorizo and mussels with spring onions and salsa verde followed by Crema Catalana.
screening “Radioactive” as part of CineXjenza. Marie Curie, a two-time Nobel Prize Winner, overcomes sexism in the 1900s, and in doing so, stumbles upon a new element known as Radium. Her discovery eventually leads to the Theory of Radioactivity contributing to advances in instrumentation, medicine, and energy production. A discussion with the aim of encouraging women in science will be held after the screening. CineXjenza is supported by the STEAM project, run by the Malta Chamber of Scientists and S-Cubed, in collaboration with Spazju Kreattiv.
This unique dish is characterised by the beautifully tender grains contrasted by the “socarrat”, the layer of crisp rice at the base of the pan. In this recipe, the chefs at the academy will show you how to replicate this effect without the need for any special paella pans or advanced culinary techniques. To top it off, they will show you how to make a Crema Catalana. Get your tickets from www.mcamalta.com
18, 19, 20 February
ZfinDays - Double Bill The University of Malta, Valletta Campus, St Paul’s Street, Valletta | 20:00
For more about Spazju Kreattiv's programme, visit www.kreattivita.org.
18 February
Couples Cooking Paella & Crema Catalana Mediterranean Culinary Academy, Triq l-Oratorju, Naxxar | 18:00
Rebels
12 OH MY MALTA
An annual programme of short works by choreographers currently in the spotlight on the international dance stage. Ochre, Georgia Tegou (Athens/London) Choreographer Georgia Tegou meets ZfinMalta National Dance Company to create a new work traversing history and memory, ancient wisdom and mysticism. Ochre is an ode to the Venus of Malta and the catacombs in
which she was found, and an attempt to unveil the mystery surrounding her ascension to light. The work follows the Sleeping Lady’s journey from the moment she was unearthed, taken from her underground home, put through the conservation process, and finally placed on display in a dark gallery on her own. It traces the steps of a female figure coming to life, leading us through her movement in a transitory, in-between space. How to destroy your dance, Francesca Pennini / CollettivO CineticO (Italy) Francesca Pennini’s How to destroy your dance is firmly rooted in the present. Both a choreography and a game, it sets out to explore the limits of the body and create a handbook for the boycott of every choreographic decorum,through impossible acceleration and extreme slow-motion. How long is one minute? What are the limits of the body? How much can it slow down to reach the most cosmic stillness, or lose its definition and then turn into an ultra-fast wake? How to destroy your dance is a challenge against time with pulp tones and ludic taste. A massacre game with no fiction and no sparing, where dancers become wrestlers of relativity and the show gets stripped down by the intimate rituals of preparation and the destruction of any form of formal artifice.
19 February
Rebels Playground, Triq Dragunara, San Ġiljan
Anarchy on the dancefloor. A night with some old faces and new! A space for local DJs to challenge their creativity in their sets and a space for like-minded individuals to come together to create a particular energy on the dance floor. The organisers are keen and excited to keep that feeling going on! Line up: Carl Lautier, Jake Monochrome, Mika & Petra. Get your tickets at the door.
Leopoldstadt that will make entertaining a breeze but have your guests thinking it took you hours in the kitchen.
Malta Eurovision Song Contest
19 February
Malta Eurovision Song Contest The national final will see 22 songs compete through a semi-final and grand final to win the honour of representing the island nation in Turin in May. The final will air on the nation television station, TVM and fans will be able to cast their votes alongside scores given by an expert jury (yet to be revealed).
19 February
Lebanese Mezze Workshop MCA, Triq l-Oratorju, Naxxar
A colourful feast of dishes including hummus dip, pita bread, tabbouleh salad, falafels, tahini dressing. This workshop will showcase a diverse range of dishes bursting with flavour to create a feast of colours and textures. Chef instructors will demonstrate how to create a balanced yet dynamic spread of food. They will show you little tricks
The session will be split into two parts. During the first part of the session, the instructors will demo several dishes that can be prepared ahead of time to keep you calm on the day. The demonstrated dishes will then compliment the final spread. The second half will see the chef instructor walking you through three small dishes that you will then replicate. Get your tickets from www.mcamalta. com
20 February
Xemxija Heritage Trail Junction between Triq ir-Ridott to Triq Raddet ir-Roti, Xemxija | 14:00
We follow his family’s story across half a century, passing through the convulsions of war, revolution, impoverishment, annexation by Nazi Germany and the Holocaust. A company of 40 actors represent each generation of the family in this epic, but intimate play. Filmed live on stage in London’s West End, ‘Tom Stoppard’s masterpiece is magnificent’ (Independent) and should not be missed. Get your tickets from www.kreattivita.org
After giving a brief introduction to all the participants, everyone will be divided in groups of six and together, everyone will set off on a scenic adventure trough this beautiful trail. A mask and vaccination are required. This hike is organised by Klabb360.
20 February
National Theatre Live | Leopoldstadt (Encore) Spazju Kreattiv Cinema, St James Cavalier, Castille Palace, Valletta | 18:00
Tom Stoppard’s Olivier Award-winning new play Leopoldstadt is a passionate drama of love, family and endurance. At the beginning of the 20th century, Leopoldstadt was the old, crowded Jewish quarter of Vienna, Austria. But Hermann Merz, a factory owner and baptised Jew now married to Catholic Gretl, has moved up in the world. Nathan Brimmer
22 February
Calamari Workshop MCA, Triq l-Oratorju, Naxxar
Calamari braised in a tomato sauce with Mediterranean flavours together with tender and crisp calamari fritti In this workshop, we will be learning about the versatility of calamari. The lesson starts off with a short
Rabbit Nose to Tail The Summit includes two days of curated content that will provide insights into Europe and Malta's future economy, the challenges and opportunities, technology’s disruption of the Real Estate sector, the role of co-working spaces, architecture and building environment.
23 February
Rabbit Nose to Tail presentation about the theory behind cooking calamari to get the best results, following this, the chef instructors will begin to demonstrate the preparation of the squid for both dishes. During the lesson, each student will then emulate the chef instructors and prepare two spectacular dishes. A hearty squid stew flavoured with raisins and pine nuts, as well as learning techniques and tricks for making perfectly crisp and tender fried calamari. Join us for an evening of fun and learn all there is to know about the versatility of the humble squid. Get your tickets from www.mcamalta. com
22, 23 February
MARE Summit, The Property and Real Estate Summit MFCC, Ta’ Qali | 10:00
Learn from the best in the industry. The conference gathers international Real Estate experts who will share insights about the European and the local market with bespoke panel discussions, interviews with market leaders, keynote speeches, and breakout sessions. 14 OH MY MALTA
MCA, Triq l-Oratorju, Naxxar
The rabbit has long been an everpresent element of Maltese food culture and, at the Mediterranean Culinary Academy, they plan to embrace that in their dynamic workshop. Using rabbit meat as the main ingredient, participants will improve their butchery skills and discover the best techniques for cooking with as many different parts of the animal as possible (without resorting to your Nanna’s classic fenkata recipe – no matter how delicious it is!) As a result, each student will be able to break down the whole rabbit, learn all about the different cuts, and cook the meat in a way that lets its characteristics shine through in the most scrumptious way possible. Get your tickets from www.mcamalta. com
24 -27 February
Historical Combat Seminar A Historical Combat seminar organised by Show of Arms in collaboration with the Cateran Society. The focus of the seminar will be sword and Rotella shield, and sword and dagger used by the Knights of St. John. The seminar will be run by the Cateran Heiko GroBe from Germany. If you are a historical fencer from any club and you are interested in attending, send an email to showofarms@gmail.com or call on 0035679866618
25 February
Anger is a Lazy Form of Grief Space C, Spazju Kreattiv, St James Cavalier, Castille Palace, Valletta
After an absence of more than 10 years from his last solo show on Maltese soil, the artist presents new works produced over the past five years. Drawing mainly on Western art history, popular culture and power image traditions, Austin Camilleri explores the tension between the material and the digital, the personal and public by layering techniques and modalities. Conceptually and physically, these works are an extension of Camilleri’s
24 February
Vintage Brew Live
Vintage Brew
Crossroads Bar & Kitchen, 2, Triq San Gorg, San Giljan | 21:00
Stalwarts of the Maltese music scene, Vintage Brew are known for their lively delivery of original bluesy rock with a contemporary twist. Their debut EP, Into the Light, came out in May 2021, and a follow-up EP, The Chase, will be dropping very soon.
Rabbit Nose to Tail
recent research. They rely on a continuous process of creation and erasure, adding of new layers while retaining traces of what has gone before, including doubt, chance and appropriation. For more information call on +35621223200
- 3.5 hour workshop hosted by Head Chef Alan - Take home chutney and jam - Take home recipes, apron and chefs hat - few surprise drinks and foods For more information regarding tickets send an email to info@diarilbniet.com or call on +356 27620727
27 February
Anger is a Lazy Form of Giref
Carnival Fun Fair IVY HOUSE, Triq Tunis, Pembroke | 11:00am
The funnest carnival family event ever is here. Enjoy a day packed with entertainment, games and performances, mimes and colwns..
Preserve the Season
26 February
Workshop | Preserve the Season Diar il-Bniet, 121, Triq il-Kbira, HadDingli | 11:00
Capture the best of the season as the Head Chef Alan takes you through a realm of preserving techniques inspired by our estate’s bounty. The class is tailored to the season giving you an opportunity to make jam, chutney & pickles here at Diar il-Bniet’s Rural Workshop Kitchen. By the end of the workshop, you’ll be equipped with the skills and knowledge to preserve the your own vegetables at home. What is included:
What else to expect? Multiple performers and shows, lots of confetti guns, street food trucks and stalls including Storie & Sapori, Kalama Fried Seafood, Dolci Peccati, fresh popcorn and sweets and even balloons in various shapes for the kids. Get your tickets from www.chitzo.com or call on +35699335591
26 February
Indonesian Dinner
Agones Sfc in collaboration with the Ghaxaq Local Council.There will be 3 events. A 5km fun run, a 2.5km Fun Run/Walk and a 1km Kids Run. Alll participants are encouraged to wear a carnival themed outfit. The 5km fun run (2 loops of 2.5km) will not be a competitive race and will not be timed. All participants will get a finishers medal as well as a certificate and a multipurpose head scarf. There will be a special award for the most original outfit, best family costume, eco-friendly costume, couple’s costume and traditional themed costume. Part of the proceeds will go to The Inspire Foundation and Alive Foundation. All participants will get a finishers medal as well as a certificate.
Sanya Eco Spa, Hilltop Gardens, Triq L-inkwina Naxxar,| 19:30
For more information send an email to agonessportsclub@gmail.com
An authentic three course Indonesian dinner in the spa area of Hilltop Gardens, hosted by the Indonesian chef Ozzu. Price is €25 per person. For bookings call on +356 21436936
27 February
Carnival Run Ghaxaq Church, Ghaxaq
The unique race is organised by
Nathan Brimmer
CARNIVAL ON THE ISLANDS Ca rnival festivities on the islands are loud, colourful, boisterous and usually include late-night street parties, masquerade balls and parades, floats and costumes. When did the local population start celebrating it and why? Here's all you need to know about your favourite holiday in Malta
16 OH MY MALTA George Attard
Il-Karnival ta’ Malta, the Maltese carnival, has occupied an important place on the local calendar for just under five centuries, as it’s been celebrated since at least the mid-15th century, since the rule of Grand Master Piero de Ponte, around 1535. Maltese carnival takes place every single year, without fail, except when the on-going COVID-19 pandemic insists that the celebrations be postponed, seven weeks before Easter. This year, carnival will fall on the 25th of February, until 1st March, 2022. Though we've given you a taster, let’s dive deep into the history of the Maltese carnival. THE 1500S In Christian countries, carnival is regarded as the last opportunity to eat and make merry before Lent, the 40-day period of fasting in preparation of Easter. As previously mentioned, the general awakening for the carnival tradition on the islands has been around since around 1535, following the arrival of the Order of St John, during Pierio de Ponte’s reign. Officially taking place in the southern city of Birgu at the start, a number of knights played games and displayed their skills in pageants and tournaments as part of the festivities. The Grand Master was not a fan of the fact that due to exaggerated banquets and masquerades, many arguments and brawls were caused. Therefore, at a general assembly of the knights, de Ponte made it clear that wild excesses would no longer be tolerated, especially since it was, oftentimes, members of the religious community who were causing the ruckus. Thus, only tournaments and other military exercises necessary to Christian knights to train for battle against the Turks were tolerated. By 1560, Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette felt that he too needed to reprimand his knights for going overboard with their festivities. He allowed the wearing of masks in public, which was forbidden in Malta during the rest of the year and the knights decorated the ships of the Order’s fleet in the harbour. It was during this time that decorated and festive floats started being used.
THE 1600S
By 1639, the islands were ruled by Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, who opted to issue a bando, which prohibited women from wearing masks and participating and attending balls organised by the knights’ auberges. If they were to break the rules, they would be publicly whipped. The Grand Master also ruled that no person could wear a costume that represented the devil. The women, as well as the knights, were not a fan of the rules and many blamed the Jesuit Father Cassia, the Grand Master’s confessor at the time. This caused considerable unrest and the Jesuit’s college was ransacked. They demanded that Lascaris expel the Jesuits from the island and close their church, which he did until the storm passed. Till today, a Maltese idiom, Wiċċ Laskri, which translates to Lascaris’ face, is still used to describe a nervous and sad person. THE 1700S True to an age-old tradition, Carnival was ushered into Maltese tradition as the knights and local population in general took the celebrations very seriously. Evidence shows that by 1730, we had our first street parades. At this time, it was customary for some peasants and later, companies of young dancers to gather under the balcony of the Grand Master’s palace in Valletta and wait eagerly until they received formal permission from him to hold the carnival. The necessary permission would be obtained and a proclamation giving the go-ahead would be read from the balcony. Next, companies dressed as Christians and Turks would perform a mock fight recalling the Great Siege of 1565 and a child representing a flag would be carried around the streets of the capital of Valletta. Meanwhile, a stone would be hung from the Castellania, which is now the Ministry of Health on Merchants Street, as a sign that ‘justice would be suspended’ for the three days of carnival. The Sunday afternoon celebrations were usually led by the Grand Master’s carriage, flanked
by cavalry marching to the beating of drums, followed by other decorated open carriages and finally, the decorated floats. In many ways, such celebrations mirrored the ones we have today. In 1721, Grand Master Marc’Antonio Zondadari introduced the game of kukkanja to the carnival. Kukkanja involves a greased pole, at the top of which foodstuffs and livestock would be tied. The competitors would attempt to climb to the top and claim the prizes! THE 1800-1900S During the British period, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries, carnival parades were noted for their satirical themes. In fact, many of the beautifully intricate floats were designed to poke fun at political figures and unpopular government decisions. That being said, political satire was banned as a result of a law that was passed later, in 1936. TODAY The largest of the carnival celebrations take place mainly in and around Valletta and Floriana and include colourful floats, street parades, music, festive food and people dressed in outrageous costumes, both children and adults alike. The 'city built for gentlemen' turns into the city for fools during the carnival, as the city bursts at the bastions with phosphorescent floats, which are the mainstay of the celebrations. they feature massive cardboard structures, painted in an explosion of colours, as well as crazy costumes, crowds and blasting music. There are several other carnival celebrations in other Maltese and Gozitan villages, including in Nadur, which is notable for its darker and more risque themes. The Gozitan carnival was first introduced in 1952. The Għaxaq carnival, for instance, is organised by the local community and involves the wearing of old-fashioned clothes, which people find in their wardrobes. Carnival festivities on the Maltese Islands are loud, colourful, boisterous and usually include prolific late-night street parties, masquerade balls and parades, as well as spirited costume wearers, music, marching bands and artistic displays. It is truly not one to be missed!
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EXPLORING NADUR, GOZO
Nadur, often referred to as the village of the rising sun, is the most populated district on Malta’s sister island of Gozo and is located on the Eastern part of the island. The name Nadur is derived from the Maltese verb of the same name, meaning to observe at length and keep guard. The word, in turn, is derived from the Arabic verb nazara, which means to dominate from a high spot, or from a ship’s mast. This appears on the village’s coat of arms, showing the sun rising from the blue sea. Other strategic headlands across the Maltese islands, the sites of former guard stations, are called in-Nadur. As one might imagine, Nadur played a crucial role in the defence of the island throughout the years. During the time of the Knights of St John, from 1530 to 1798, a watch tower was built by the Grand Master Nicolas Cotoner, called the Sopu tower. Another in Nadur, called the Ta’ Kenuna Tower, was also built by the British during the 19th century, bringing the two islands together with a telegraph link. Nadur was one of the first hamlets of the island to be raised to the status of a village. From the very beginning, it is believed that people resided in the San Blas area, which is now located in Nadur. When people were less afraid to sleep outside the walls of the only fortress in Gozo, located in Rabat, they began settling on the hill of Nadur at ta’ Hida. As the population grew, people living on the eastern side of the island requested that the church authorities erect a parish near their homes. In the interim, a chapel in Qala served as a provisionary parish church, till the new one was built on the hil. Bishop David Palmieri visited the area in 1687, listened to their requests and on April 28, 1688, a parish dedicated to St Peter and St Paul was built. The church was built within 15 years and the village of Ta’ Nadur soon became known as Nadur. Nowadays, it is nestled between the villages of Qala, Għajnsielem and Xagħra. It lies along the spine of a hilltop around 152 metres above sea level. It has a population of more than 4,000 people, making it the second most populous town after Victoria. There is a significant number of farmers in the village, the majority of whom work their fields on a part-time basis. From the orchards of Nadur come most of the local fruits, including plums, peaches, apples, oranges and lemons, with the produce maintaining commercial contacts with Malta for over 3,000 years. This commerce is still ongoing and a great amount of Maltese citrus still originates from Nadur. A good number of others earn their living from the sea as fishermen or sailors.
Folk Festival
THINGS TO SEE IN NADUR, GOZO
SOPU TOWER
SAN BLAS BAY
This tower, situated on the cliffs between San Blas and Daħlet Qorrot, was built in 1667 at the expense of Universita ta’ Gozo, during the reign of Grand Master Nicolas Cotoner. The guns of this tower opened fire on the French fleet in June 1798, a distinction no other tower shares! Internally, Sopu tower consists of a high barrel vault, with a floor resting on arches and a spiral staircase provides access to the various floors. The tower is open for visitors on the 6th and 20th of February, from 9:30am till 1pm. The areas around the tower have also been designated as a special conservation area, due to their high scenic and ecological value.
This idyllic red-sand bay, a little sister to the well-known Ramla Bay, is accessible from Nadur via a narrow road, which usually discourages people, making the bay a quiet and peaceful place, especially during the winter months. The beach is rock-strewn, has patches of red sand and is backed by beautiful, steep, terraced fields, with prickly pear trees. It's also the perfect spot for snorkeling as well as diving, as the water is rather shallow and clear. In order to get there, Bus 303 heads to the bay hourly from Victoria, via Nadur. Stop at the Weraq bus stop and walk 600m to the beach. San Blas really is one of the locals best kept secrets.
BASILICA OF ST PETER AND ST PAUL
TAL-MIXTA CAVE
Established and erected by the Bishop of Malta, David Palmieri, in 1688, the Basilica of St Peter and St Paul is a Roman Catholic minor basilica and parish church, located in the village of Nadur. The construction of the basilica is attributed to Maltese architect Giuseppe Bonici and is said to be one of the most beautiful churches in Gozo. The church was consecrated in 1867 and became Archipresbyteral in 1893. It became the third Collegiate of Gozo in 1894 and gained the Basilica title in 1967. The ceiling, which depicts episodes connected with St Peter and St Paul, was painted by Maltese artist Lazzaro Pisani.
This stunning gem, located in Gozo, is overlooking Ramla Bay and has become an increasingly popular spot amongst both locals and tourists, for its breath-taking sunset views. The cave is said to be one of the last troglodytic abodes on the island, which refers to a prehistoric race of people that lived in caves and dens. Therefore, the cave is said to have been inhabited from early times, until the early 20th century. In order to get to the cave, it is recommended that you pass through the outskirts of the village of Nadur rather than climbing up from Ramla Bay, which would be harder and more treacherous. OH MY MALTA
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THE MYSTERY OF ST PAUL'S SHIPWRECK Malta’s cultural identity has long been intertwined with St Paul. After all, as the story goes, it was with St Paul that Christianity, which has for many years had strong foundations in Malta and Gozo, was brought to the islands. Paul is the patron saint of Malta and his feast is celebrated at the start of February and the feast is a highly-anticipated event for many. Here’s why…
the time. It was here that Paul cured Publius of his ailments, as well as many others who were sick or disabled among the island’s population. It is believed that it was at this point that Publius converted to Christianity and was made the first Bishop of Malta. Interestingly, the Mdina cathedral is said to be standing on the actual site of Publius’ house.
THE SHIPWRECK
Undoubtedly, Paul also preached the Gospel to the Maltese population and when he left the country, they gave him all the supplies he may need, as a sign of gratitude.
Popular belief implies that Paul was shipwrecked on Malta in 60AD and though some academics are skeptical, based on the wind direction prevalent during his voyage from the Levant to his execution in Rome for his Christian beliefs, Malta has been described as the most likely location. According to the Acts of the Apostles, Paul was being taken to Rome to be tried as a political rebel, however, the ship carrying him and another 274 people was caught in an extremely violent storm. God let him know in advance that he would be shipwrecked, but would spare the lives of all those on board, a promise that was later kept. Two weeks later, the vessel was shipwrecked on the Maltese coast. Though the actual location where the shipwreck took place is unknown, tradition paints a picture of it occurring in and around St Paul’s Bay and St Paul’s Islands. In fact, a large and stunning statue of the Saint by sculptors Sigismondo Dimech and Salvatore Dimech, can be found on St Paul’s Island. Following the wreck, all those aboard the ship swam safely to land, including Paul himself. The local population were hospitable and greeted them kindly but apprehensively, as they thought he might be a murderer, whom the ‘goddess of justice’ had finally caught up with, after he was bitten by a poisonous snake. After being bitten however, Paul seemed to have suffered no ill will, which the Maltese took to mean that he was special, a God even. Paul showed them that it was merely God’s power at work in a man as during his stay, he was invited to Publius’ house, the Roman Governor at
Malta is thought to have been one of the first Roman colonies to have completely converted to Christianity, backed up by significant archeological evidence found in the early catacombs dotted around the islands. THE CELEBRATIONS The feast of St Paul’s Shipwreck, also called San Pawl Nafragu, which is celebrated on the 10th of February, marks the first major feast day and national holiday in the calendar. On the day, you can attend services at the church of St Paul’s Shipwreck, which is among the oldest churches in Valletta, dating back to the 1570s. In the church itself are many significant works of art, including the altarpiece, paintings and a wooden, carved statue of St Paul, which dates back to 1659. There are also relics of the saint to be seen, including his alleged wrist bone and a piece of the column he is said to have been beheaded on. Traditionally, a procession of St Paul’s Statue from the church building through the streets of Valletta takes place on the day. It’s taken up Republic Street to St John’s Square during the evening, amid marching band music, falling confetti and cheering crowds. There’s also a procession that takes place at noon, with just the marching band. You can also watch the fireworks display over the Grand Harbour in the morning.
FORTRESS ISLAND Malta has often been called the Fortress Island due to the great mass of military architecture. Wherever you go, you’ll come across remnants of battles fought, ranging from 17th century coastal forts to watch towers and World War II pillboxes. Here are a few you should check out…
FORT MADALENA, MADLIENA Built during the reign of Queen Victoria, Fort Madalena was built in two phases. The first was the pentagonalshaped fort, built as part of the Victoria Lines defence, between 1878 and 1880 and the second was the addition of a 9.2 inch coastal defence battery. The fort was built on the site of a 15th century chapel and is actually quite small, with the shorter sides of the pentagon being about 30 metres long. The Victoria Lines were abandoned in 1907 and the fort, along with Fort Binġemma, remained in use for coastal defence.
FORT ST ANGELO, BIRGU Originally built to be a castle, Fort St Angelo, one of Malta’s most well-known forts, was rebuilt with a more martial mission in mind, by none other than the Knights of the Order of St John. Used defensively during the Great Siege of 1565, Fort St Angelo, found front and centre on Birgu waterfront, played a vital and strategic role in Malta’s military history. When visiting, keep an eye out for the ghost of the Grey Lady, who is said to be the murdered mistress of a Sicilian captain from the 13th century.
FORT RINELLA, KALKARA This imposing and stunning fort in Kalkara was built in 1878 by British engineers, with the aim of protecting Malta from the Italians and therefore differs to other forts in one key aspect: this fort features a massive 100-tonne gun, positioned on the coastal battery. The British installed a second pair of the guns to defend Gibraltar. For a touch of historical flair, plan your visit to coincide with the regular volunteer tours, where guides dress up as Victorian-era soldiers to show you around. Don’t worry, audience participation is not required.
FORT CHAMBRAY, GĦAJNSIELEM This bastioned fort is located in the precincts of Għajnsielem in Gozo and was built during the mid-18th century by the Order of St John. Fort Chambray was originally destined to be the citadel of a new city, which was to replace Ċitaddella as the island’s capital, but the plan fell through. The fort was then used during the French invasion of Malta in 1798 and was commanded by the knight de Megrigny, with many inhabitants taking refuge in the fort. By the start of the 19th century, the fort was taken over by a British garrison.
OLIVE OIL PRESSING IN BIDNIJA Follow along with this column by Emily A Francis, as we explore further into the culture and cuisine of the Maltese Islands, starting off with fresh foods as a single item, grown and harvested locally
Words by Emily A Francis
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Before moving to Malta, it never ever occurred to me to look at my bottles of olive oil to find out if the olives were of a single variety or blend, or even where they came from. Now that I’m focusing on local, fresh and seasonal in all things food-related, naturally, the olives found in Malta have become significantly more interesting to me. My limited research would suggest that the best olives for olive oil come from Mediterranean countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece and as you may have guessed, my beloved Malta. White olive trees
Sam Cremona
A BRAND NEW INTEREST Around six months ago, I asked my gardener to plant some olive trees in my yard. He asked me if I wanted olives to eat straight off the tree or if I preferred olives that could be used to make olive oil. Without even thinking, I opted for the latter. This was the start of my new interest in olive oil. The gardener ended up planting two olive trees, both of which had a tag labelled ‘Leccino’. I’m embarrassed to admit that until I met Malta’s premier olivepresser, Sam Cremona, I had never noticed the tags. Never once did I stop to read or take the time to learn about what kind of olives my trees might produce. OLIVE VARIATIONS ON THE ISLAND I did a little digging. When I met Sam Cremona, he described a myriad of varieties of olives, and even showed me the olive trees in his gardens, as well as the process by which the olives are pressed. Most importantly, he taught me about the most treasured olives native to Malta, called the bidni. The bidni olive is low in acid and high in polyphenols, and is considered to produce one of the healthiest and finest olive oils in the world. The trees can be traced back to more than 2,000 years and even have links to the Roman Empire. Other olives present here in Malta include il-Malti, the Maltese olive, il-Ħelwa ta’ Sqallija, the sweet Sicilian olive, L-imrajja ta’ Marsala, the Marsala olive and il-Bajda, the white olive. Maltese oils, according to Sam, are greener, stronger and more bitter in taste. MEETING THE GODFATHER OF OLIVE OIL There is a reason why any and all olive oil connoisseurs are familiar with the name Sam
Cremona. This is because he is the master of olive oil, not to mention the warmest, most inviting man you could ever meet. Even the renowned chef Jamie Oliver paid him a visit a few years ago to learn more about the sacred white olives that Sam has on his property, as well as the bidni olive oil. The celebrity chef also nicknamed Sam the ‘Godfather of Olive Oil!’ When I arrived at Sam’s place for the interview, he reminded me of Willy Wonka, but instead of chocolate, it’s all about olives. Everywhere you look are olive trees for different varieties to grow. There were also cases upon cases of freshly-picked olives ready to be placed onto the press. When I asked Sam which olives are the best, he said, “there is no best. There is just preference and you need to learn which olive oils you prefer.” According to Sam, the greener, bitter oil is high in antioxidants and can remain fresh for three years. However, the lighter oils in colour usually remain fresh for around a year. That being said, many olive oils are blends of different olive varieties, of which there are at least 40! The method Sam Cremona uses to press olives is called cold pressing, to produce what is, in my opinion, the purest olive oil in the world, made right here in Malta. The perfect ending to an already perfect day featured Sam pouring the brightest, neon-green coloured olive oil possible into bottles to be sold and consumed. WHAT I’VE LEARNT I learned a lot from my visit with Sam and from now on, I will look for where my olive oil comes from. If it comes from a local farmer, I’ll ask which olive varieties are in the bottle. I will also look for particular words, most notably: Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil. I will also make an effort to identify the colour of my olive oil. Lastly, I will buy directly from local olive oil producers, so I can know exactly where the olives were grown and harvested, and what kind of olives made it into the bottle. In doing so, I will not only be supporting local farmers, but I will also be guaranteeing a better quality of olive oil. If you want to use olive oil the way that the true Mediterranean diet suggests, you cannot skimp on the price. When it comes to olive oil, you really do get what you pay for.
Emily A Francis and Sam Cremona
INTERVIEW:
KURT MIFSUD Oh My Malta recently sat down with Kurt Mifsdi, passionate gastranome and founder of the Mediterranean Culinary Academy in Malta, to find
out a little bit more about his passion for food and his perception on local cuisine
CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR PASSION FOR GASTRONOMY? My journey began in my late teens when I found myself working in different restaurants. This passion has led me to meet some incredible producers and chefs from all over the world.
of more exciting dishes as well as to deliver consistently, which is very positive. I have seen many chefs and restauranteurs pushing for more local products to be used and that is extremely positive in my opinion. HOW IS MALTESE CUISINE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TYPES
I think there are two things that really keep me interested and invested. Firstly, gastronomy is a field of study in which you have to think but also be in touch with your senses. There is a trained awareness of taste and smell as well as an openness to discussion, which I find absolutely addictive.
OF CUISINES?
Secondly, it is a way in which people communicate their story and this is something that I find fascinating.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION YOU HAVE SEEN OR
AS THE FOUNDER OF THE MEDITERRANEAN CULINARY ACADEMY, CAN YOU TELL US WHAT THE ACADEMY FOCUSES ON? The MCA is intrinsically committed to developing particularly Mediterranean cuisine, as well as leading the way with regards to sustainable agricultural practices. Based in Malta, the academy revolves around a unique set of contemporary values that places the food cycle at the core of everything it teaches. From kids and adult courses to single session workshops, the MCA is a home for all foodies looking to expand their culinary knowledge through hands-on cooking classes. GASTRONOMY TODAY IS MORE WIDELY APPRECIATED AS AN ART THAN BEFORE. DO YOU AGREE? I think there is a better food scene in Malta than there was a few years back. It has definitely improved. However, I’m not sure about the gastronomy being appreciated more and even referring to it as an art is a statement which I can’t fully agree with. To me, understanding gastronomy and talking about it should mainly consist about finding beauty in everyday delicacies. Appreciating the land and sea around us as well as the producers and farmers who create the food we eat. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE MALTESE FOOD SCENE NOW? AND WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE BIGGEST CHANGES YOU’VE SEEN IN THE LOCAL FOOD SCENE OVER THE YEARS? I think in the last few years there has been a push for the chef to be more creative and a push for the creation
Maltese cuisine is a culmination of the history of the Mediterranean. Very similar to our language, Maltese food is made up of different cultural influences from the cultures that have conquered the island.
HEARD REGARDING LOCAL FOOD AND HOW IMPORTANT IS SEASONALITY TO YOU? One of the biggest cisonceptions is that for some reason locally grown fruit and vegetables are full of pesticides and herbicides and foreign produce is better. Herbicides and pesticides aren’t free and cost money, so someone using them is trying to save money and use the minimum amount possible. Other than that, local fruits and vegetables are picked just before they are to be sold whereas something coming in from abroad might be picked weeks before it hits the supermarket shelves. This obviously has a negative effect on the flavour of the product. To me this is also a great case for eating seasonally as you are eating something in its prime. HOW CAN LOCALS BE MORE RESPONSIBLE EATERS? I think this one is easy. You can act more responsibly just by going to the farmer's market once a month. Like this you will find it easier to understand what is in season and aslo get inspired by the colours and the smells around you! WHICH LOCAL INGREDIENTS AND DISHES WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO TOURISTS? Right now, I would definitely say any citrus. Malta has a long history of growing citrus and right now anyone can get their hands on and taste some amazing fruit. Olive oil is also a product I feel most people should try as local olive oil in general is of a high quality. As dishes I would recommend, and line caught fresh fish, which you can find prepared as simply as possible.
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TRADITIONAL MALTESE
BIGILLA BY KURT MIFSUD
Bigilla is a traditional Maltese dish, made primarily with mashed beans and olive oil and is usually served as a dip. Tic beans, known in Malta as "ful ta' Ġirba", are used. These are similar to but smaller than broad beans, with a darker and harder skin
METHOD
INGREDIENTS For the cooking beans
1.
150g dried tic beans 2. 1 bay leaf 1 sprig thyme 1 sprig rosemary Lemon peel from half a lemon Salt, to taste For the mix 1 tsp crushed chili 1 tsp fennel seeds 150ml olive oil 4 sprigs parsley 4 sprigs mint 2 sprigs marjoram Crushed pepper, to taste 2 cloves garlic 2 tbsp cooking liquor
3.
Start the night before by soaking both types of means in plenty of water and the bicarbonate of soda. Drain the next day and add them to the pot with everythingelseinthetophalfofthe ingredients list. Cover with plenty of water and season with a little salt. Cook until very tender. Taste for seasoning and add more salt if needed. Allow the beans to col in the cooking liquid. When cool strain and retain the liquid. Discard all of the aromatics used in the cooking. Add the beans and all the remaining ingredients, including two tablespoons of the cooking liquid to the food processor and blend until fairly smooth. Hold off with seasoning with salt till then end and then adjust as necessary. Enjoy!
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Valletta
10 GREAT PLACES FOR A QUICK SNACK IN MALTA AND GOZO Looking for a cafeteria in Malta? The island is jam-packed full of pretty coffee shops that are just waiting to be explored. These are the spots you shouldn’t miss
Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
Inquisitor's Palace
CHARLES & RON What can one expect from two creative minds whose love for food is as strong as that for fashion? A diverse, mouthwatering menu composed of high-quality ingredients using the best seasonal produce the island has to offer. Yes, the food, service and ambience of this café in Naxxar will truly exceed your expectations. Everything is extremely impeccable. Don’t forget to try their Velvety 36 OH MY MALTA
Apple Spice Herbal Infusion. The pineapples and apples make this a sweet cup that is revived with the cinnamon and cloves, finished off with the gentle marigold petals and tangy rose hips. A comforting and indulgent cup perfect for cosy winter afternoon!
21, St Paul’s Street, Naxxar | +35627900592
PRETI CAFÉ
COFFEE BREAK
This cafè bringing back the ancient tea ritual by creating a simple cup of whole leaf tea into a delightful experience. The coffee they use is hand roasted locally and the method used ensures that flavour is true to the coffee produced by the farmer. They also have their own breakfast menu including a selection of croissants, house granola, pancakes, avocado toast and more.
Whether you are looking for a quick cup of coffee, a savoury snack or something sweet and tasty, this is the ideal hang out to get your cravings in order. You can even enjoy a hearty breakfast ranging from simple pastries, toasties and baguettes to a full English breakfast. The lunch menu is also divine here!
St George’s Square, Victoria, Gozo | +356 99804003
Triq That Putirjal, Victoria, Gozo | +356 27551295
MANOUCHE CRAFT BAKERY AND BISTRO
FRENCH AFFAIRE
Manouche excels in sweets, bread and brunch food. The croissants, macarons, cookies, chocolate and French pastries are some of the best you’d ever have. The same could be said for their brunch food, bread and afternoon tea. It is simply one of those places where you can go time and time again and always leave pleased with what you were given.
Inspired by the French daintiness and decor, the cafè is truly an incredible place to be, located just outside The Point Shopping Mall. Its sumptuous interior, French decor, fabulous choice of desserts, breakfasts and coffee make it place to be for a romantic date or a family gathering. In addition to the dinig-in, alfresco or by the bar, patrons can also order their favourite desserts and cakes to take home!
Triq Mikiel Ang Borg, St Julian’s | +356 2741478
Pjazza Tigné, Sliema | +356 2247 4669
BLACK CAT
CAROLINA’S PETIT CAFÉ & TEAROOM
An intimate quality café specialising in teas and artisan cakes, pate and some vegan foods. This cute spot also specialises in high teas, serving scrumptious homemade scones and jam. They also traditional vegemite on toast, home made sausage rolls, ANZAC biscuits and lamingtons… one for the Aussies and an absolute breakfast-must!
This adorable tea room offers a great menu with a vast selection of food options and tasty desserts such as doughnuts, cookies and homemade cakes. The choice of afternoon teas is too die for. The decoration is extremely classic and feels like a real English tea room. Vegan options and sugar free options are also available.
19, Triq Vajringa, Victoria, Gozo | +35621569240
Pjazza Bertu Fenech, Balzan | +356 99828682
JAILE'S This cafeteria is a combination of Yorkshire warmth and hospitality with traditional English dishes coupled with a varied menu of tasty bites. Relax on the terrace upstairs, or in the cozy courtyard and lounge, perfect for meeting with friends, lingering over coffee, indulging in a cake, a 38 OH MY MALTA
glass of wine or enjoying a bite to eat. Don’t miss out on the afternoon tea. Bookings advised.
Triq Tommaso Dingli, Attard | +356 21434590
GIORGIO’S CAFETERIA
GUSAV CAFÉ
A classy cafeteria on the buzzing seafront of Sliema, always packed with locals. This lively meeting place serves a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. A great place for an excellent morning cup of coffee and pastry or delicious cake with a cup of afternoon tea. No visit to Malta is complete without a visit to Giorgio's.
Enjoy the quiet secluded ambiance of Gustav Café away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This selfservice café possesses the highest viewpoint in Mdina, and, together with the ambiance and striking interior design, it is truly a treat for all the senses, serving tasty traditional Maltese sweets, snacks, vegan, lactose- free and gluten-free goodies.
The Strand, Sliema | +356 21342456
L, Triq il-Villegaignon, Mdina | +356 7977 7782
A MALTESE EUROVISION Joe Grech
Malta, one of the smallest countries in the Eurovision Song Contest, first joined the competition in 1971 and has participated a total of 33 times. Will we be victorious this year?
The Malta Eurovision Song Contest is making a comeback for the first time since 2018 and we could not be more excited if we tried! Prior to 2018, the process by which the person chosen to represent Malta at the Eurovision was done through MESC. During the hiatus, Malta’s representative was alternatively chosen by means of The X Factor Malta, the winner of which was offered the exciting opportunity to sing on the Eurovision stage.
Mary Spiteri
Chiara
This month, the MESC semi-final will be taking place on the 17th of February on Television Malta, followed by the final on Saturday 19th February. Let’s get into the history of Malta’s association with the Eurovision Song Contest, shall we? THE HISTORY The Eurovision Song Contest was based on Italy’s Sanremo Music Festival and was initially designed to test the limits of live television broadcast technology. The very first contest was held in May 1956, with the participation of seven nations. With live orchestras being the norm and simple sing-along songs being on every single radio station, the contest rapidly grew into a true European tradition. In the beginning, participants sang in their country’s national language. However, as the Swedish entry in 1965, Absent Friend, was sung in English, the European Broadcasting
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Union (EBU) set strict rules on the language in which entries could be performed. The rules dictated that only national languages were allowed to be used. Song writers quickly caught on that they would only be successful if the judges were able to understand the lyrics and therefore, songs such as Boom-Bang-A-Bang and La La La were performed on stage. Malta, one of the smallest countries in the contest, joined the competition in 1971, with Joe Grech and his song called Marija l-Maltija, which finished in last place with just 52 points. At the time, Malta was permitted to sing in English, due only to the fact that English is considered to be an official language of Malta.
Ira Losco
The country’s second attempt did not go much better, as we finished last in 1972, too. Following a third attempt in 1975, Malta withdrew from the contest until 1991, and has participated every year since. We went on to finish third behind the UK and Ireland in 1992 and again in 1998 With Chiara’s The One That I Love, nearly winning the whole competition in one of the closest voting sequences ever seen in the contest. The streak went on as in 2002, Ira Losco finished second for the country with the song 7th Wonder, a record equalled by Chiara, when she returned in 2005 with Angel. The singer participated for a third time just four years later, taking Malta to the grand final once again. In the last few years, Malta has, admittedly, not done as well, failing to qualify for the final a total of seven times since 2007. That being said, Destiny represented the country last year and her song, Je Me Casse, was slated to win or at the very least, come in second place. The extremely talented singer placed seventh at the end, leaving many shocked and disappointed. While Malta has yet to win the Eurovision Song Contest, we are one of the most successful countries with regards to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, having won the competition twice, in 2013 with Gaia Cauci and again in 2015 with Destiny Chukanyere, who also represented Malta at the Eurovision last year, after winning The X Factor Malta. Malta has even hosted the junior edition twice, in 2014 and 2016. With 33 participations in Eurovision history, could Malta finally be victorious this year?
Kurt Calleja
Destiny
INTERVIEW: JEREMY VASSALLO Jeremy Vassallo is the founder and creative director of Blakkript, a clothing fashion brand that brings together the perfect balance of minimalism and boldness by using quality fabrics and fusing nocturnal glamour with a modern take of the 1970s and 1980s
Designer Jeremy Vassallo
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CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT BLAKKRIPT PLEASE? I’m Jeremy, the founder and creative director of Blakkript, a concept that I developed three years ago. It fuses nocturnal glamour with a modern take of 1970 and 1980s rock and roll, when it comes to the graphic T-shirts, skinny jeans, distress denims and boots. We take these two concepts and we add a nice luxury effect over everything. When it comes to the handmade nature of the garments, we make all our clothes in Italy at renowned factories over there, which actually have collaborated with a number of well-known brands. With regards to fabrics, we use high-end fabrics and zippers that we get all the way from Switzerland. Our aim is to create something unique and something that will hopefully work on both local and international level. I am super excited to see where this journey will take me. WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN FASHION? I’d say that music sparked my interest in fashion. I grew up listening to a lot of rap and RNB and I used to view these artists as the modern rockstars of our time; the Axl Roses of the 1980s. I was always super impressed at how they used to own the stage with all that confidence. They were the trendsetters, and still are the trendsetters of our generation. There was one particular artist who I used to follow and still follow to this day, who had this particular monochromatic black on black style, very classic, very timeless. He was all about those leather jackets, skinny jeans and distress denims. I guess growing up, this was the first sense of style that I gravitated towards, adopted and stuck to, even whilst building the brand’s identity. ARE YOU SELF-TAUGHT OR DID YOU FORMERLY STUDY FASHION DESIGN? I'm a self-taught fashion designer so I learnt everything from scratch; from the pattern making to the garment construction with all the different sowing techniques and different finishes like printing, embroidery and fabric washes. It was a lengthy three year process but I wanted to be sure that I would be in a position to release collection after collection as soon as I brought the brand out there, rather than rushing things and then finding myself at a stall like… "what now"? This is why it took three years. Also not going to fashion school and not having a mentor to guide the way made things a bit more difficult but I’m happy with how things turned out and I’m just excited to continue learning. YOUR DEBUT COLLECTION WAS LAUNCHE AT MALTA FASHION WEEK LAST YEAR. WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE COLLECTION? I officially launched my brand at Malta Fashion Week, where
I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity by Mr Adrian Mizzi. It was the best launch I could ever wish for in front of such an audience in such a grand venue. The main aim behind the collection was to give the audience a glimpse into the nocturnal world of Blakkript and set the foundation of what is to come and what is to be expected from the brand. As you can imagine, the collection was filled with a lot of dark colours, dark fabrics and even artworks that give that edginess to the clothing. WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR CREATIVE INSPIRATION? When designing and looking for inspiration, I try not put myself in any sort of box and literally let my mind wonder off and explore different areas. For example, I borrow countless books related to art from my grandfather covering so many art periods such as the baroque, the renaissance and others. I basically just flick through these books looking for inspiration; shapes, patterns, colours that blend together, artworks. The same goes for architecture and nature. Nature is all around us; animals, sea, trees, the sky, you can pick out so many sources of inspiration from there. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE DESIGN PROCESS? Once I’m happy with all the sources of inspiration, I chuck them all into a mood board and this is how the design process starts. From this mood board I begin to pick out garment silhouettes and start to develop artworks and see which colours work well with what. From there the whole colour palette of the collection will come out. It is a lot of fine tuning that can take from one month to even six months. It is something I try not to rush too much. When coming up with the design, I just love letting it sit there for a couple of weeks and going back to it to see if I am still happy, if I could change it, whether I have new inspirations and new sources that I could add to the garment to make it even better. There is not one way about going about it. Every artist has his own way of designing but in my case, this sort of process works. FROM WHERE CAN PEOPLE GET THEIR HANDS ON SOME OF YOUR DESIGNS AND WHAT'S IN STORE FOR THE FUTURE? Currently, my collection can be purchased exclusively from my website blakkript.com. I do have future plans to eventually expand and get into retailers in cities worldwide like Paris, Milan, and New York. It is a dream of mine for now but it is something I want to continue working towards. I’d also love to continue showcasing my brand at renowned Fashion Weeks worldwide. It sounds farfetched at the moment but I guess slowly slowly things are becoming a bit more real for me with new opportunities that are presenting themselves and I'm really excited to keep working with more amazing people and expanding my knowledge to keep reaching new heights with this brand.
George Attard and Emily A Franc
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 luggage for
CERAMIC DINNER SET Maltese ceramicist, Tiz, produces wheel-thrown ceramic tableware, perfect for your home. The pieces are varied and include one-off creations as well as dinner sets with a focus on contemporary forms, by Ceramics by Tiz
RECIPE BOOK With space for 100 of your favourite recipes, this unique recipe book, featuring the famous Maltese tile design, will help you stay organised. Thanks to its spiral binding, it's super easy to use whilst you're cooking up something delicious, by Maduma
HAND-PAINTED BOARDS The Maltese-born artist behind these unique, handmade wooden boards creates each and every piece with passion, as each board, utensil and board are made to order, ensuring the highestquality product possible. Mia Anastasi Sammut shares a strong connection of family through her art, which you can find on Bonnymia
LOCAL JAMS This Maltese company produces delectable home-made jams, chutneys and preserves, made exclusively from locallygrown and produced fruit and vegetables. Their top sellers are the ever-intriguing apple and wine jam, strawberry and mint jam and loquat and curry chutney. Get your hands on a jar (or two) today, by With Love From Our Kitchen
OLIVE OIL The 'Bidni' olive variety, which also lends its name to their resulting olive oil, is found only on the Maltese islands. The Bidni fruit is small in size, hearty with a violet colour, renowned for its superior oil, by Bidni
HOT SAUCES Presenting: local artisinal Maltese and Gozitan sauces, produced and developed by means of the process of fermentation. These super sauces are produced with home-made and unique flavour profiles, perfect for those looking to add some extra heat and Maltese passion into their dishes, by Ferment Island
PASTIZZ CUSHION Spent time in Malta and couldn't get enough of our all-time favourite pastizzi? This artist is making life easier and giving all of us the opportunity to bring the legendary Maltese snack into our homes. This cushion, as well as the ħobża version makes for a great gift, both for foodies and fast-food lovers alike, as well as anyone who loves Maltese snacks, by Screengirl
LOCAL CHOCOLATE Sunday in Scotland offers handmade chocolate using the finest cocoa beans available. There is no mass production, no corporate push and no desire to rush after the latest trend. Rather, the focus is on quality, essence and absolute perfection. With its artistic packaging, exquisite flavours and ruthless pursuit of perfection, Sunday in Scotland will forever change the way you savour chocolate
MALTESE COFFEE The unique recipe of select raw beans and spices celebrates Maltese folklore and revives a taste, which was once so prevalent in the past. This aromatic, strong coffee, infused with roasted chicory, aniseed and cloves is certainly one that will forever be imprinted in your mind and on your tastebuds, leaving you wanting more and never settling for less, by Chocolate District
MALTESE DOORS APRON This artist's famous Maltese tileinspired collection has expanded to include this one-of-a-kind apron. This 100% cotton apron complements the mug, coasters and place mats, all of which form the Malta Doors Collection, by Stephanie Borg
SERVICES FERRIES
PHARMACIES
CAR RENTAL
Cirkewwa, Malta – Mgarr, Gozo Operates daily Departure time: Approx. every 30 mins From 12am – 23:15pm Crossing time: Approx. 25 mins
Brown’s Pharmacy +356 2124 4366 Marina Apartments, 10, Marina St, Pietà Opening hours: Monday – Saturday from 8am – 9pm
Unicar Hire Services Ltd
Cirkewwa Malta - Blue Lagoon Operates daily Departure time: Approx. Every 30 mins From 8:30am – 5:30pm
M4 Pharmacy +356 2143 6531 Attard Road, Attard Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 1pm/4pm-7pm, Saturday from 8am – 1:00pm
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
Royal Pharmacy +356 2123 9682 271, Republic Street, Valletta Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 9am – 7pm, Saturday 9am-7pm
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
MEDICAL SERVICES
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
St. James Hospital +356 2329 1000 Triq Gorg Borg Olivier, Sliema St James Square, Zabbar Opening hours: 24/7
Fexserv Financial Services Ltd Alpine House, Triq In-Naxxar, San Gwann +356 2576 2576 Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 8.30am – 6pm, Saturday from 9am - 12.30pm
66A, St. George’s Road, St. Julians +356 2576 2785 Opening hours: Monday- Sunday from 9.30am – 8pm 61, Republic Street, Valletta +356 2576 2278 Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 9am to 2pm and from 3pm to 6pm
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Mater Dei Hospital +356 2545 0000 Triq Dun Karl, Imsida Opening hours: 24/7
Floriana Health Centre +356 2124 3314 F.S. Fenech Street, Floriana Opening hours: Mon-Sun 24 hours Gozo Health Centre (Victoria) + 356 2215 6820 Triq Enrico Mizzi, Victoria, Gozo Opening hours: Monday-Sunday 07:00-20:00
+356 2345 8706 9 Empire Stadium Street, Gzira www.unicarmalta.com GoTo Car Sharing Car Sharing Services Malta Ltd, Mdina Road, Zebbug, ZBG 9017, Malta
TAXI SERVICES Cool Ride-Pooling +356 2014 7600 www.cool.mt
Ecabs
+356 2138 3838 Head Office, Triq Santu Wistin, Paceville St Julians – STJ 3180, Malta
HAIR SALONS Prive Hairdressing +356 21 433 072 Prive Hairdressing, Triq it- Tin, Naxxar, Malta Toni&Guy +356 2373 3420 Hilton Malta, Portomaso, St Julians Opening hours: Monday – Saturday from 9am – 7pm Shimmer N Shin Hair and Beauty Salon +356 2789 4555 128, Triq il-Qaliet, Marsaskala, Opening hours: Monday from 10am - 6pm, Tuesday - Saturday from 9am - 7pm