DISCOVERING MALTA’S HISTORY

Through the Islands’ Unforgettable Historical Sites

This tiny island nation has been inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period, around 5900 B.C. Over those millennia, many cultures have come and gone, each leaving their mark and making this land of “Strength and Persistence” — the country’s official motto — a unique place in Europe, if not the world.

Many aspects of Malta draw people to its modest spot in the Mediterranean. Warm waters beckon at beaches like Golden Bay, Xlendi, and Sliema. Scuba diving destinations are considered to be the best in Europe. Boat tours offer relaxing views and lazy days. Shopping for local wares is fun and offers discovery. And the foodie scene here has exploded, with more and more Michelin ratings awarded in every corner of the islands. But perhaps the most alluring aspect is the history on display.

A simple walk through any corner of Malta is sure to be steeped in history. From the aforementioned Neolithic period to the modern day, a multitude of cultural influences has shaped the architecture and left many an ancient edifice, from megalithic structures to sprawling cathedrals standing for all to see and explore.

A Storied Land

Seafaring Phoenicians colonized the islands in 800 B.C., bringing Semitic culture and language, later becoming Carthaginians who would rule for almost another 1,000 years. The Roman Empire would take over in 216 A.D. until their grip loosened in the 4th century, leaving Malta under the auspices of the Byzantines. By the late 800s, Arabic conquest came to these shores along with much of Southern Europe. By 1091, the Norman conquest changed the game again, bringing Christianity back as the main religion by the end of the 13th century.

But that wasn’t enough cultural turnover for Malta! The Kingdom of Sicily would have a turn at rule over the island, with Spain following soon after by 1530. Even the French got in on occupying the archipelago, albeit briefly, under the ambitious Emperor Napoleon. Malta asked Great Britain for help, and the French were quickly ousted, starting a long and close relationship with England — so much so that the Maltese solicited entry into the British Empire but was relegated to colonial status in 1814. By 1964, Malta became an independent state and, by 1979, separated itself from Britain formally.

That’s a lot of history packed into a small space! One result of Malta’s history is the unique language based on ancient Arabic which was later Latinized to become something not quite of either. You will see this rich cultural diversity reflected further in the historical sites in Malta. Here’s a quick guide to the places to check out!

Gantija Temples

Let us start back at the beginning — at least as far as we know. The first of many UNESCO sites on Malta, the Ġgantija Temples are a megalithic compound on the island of Gozo. Built before the invention of the wheel, these structures came into being over 5,000 years ago, making them more ancient than Stonehenge and even the Pyramids of Giza. Researchers reveal them to be the site of fertility ritual ceremonies as defined by a long-lost religion. Today, you can wander through this esoteric and unparalleled bit of history excavated in the 19th century.