10 Fascinating Facts About Malta That Most People Don’t Know

Malta may be a small island nation, but it is packed with thousands of years of history, breathtaking landscapes, unique cultural traditions and surprising quirks. Whether you are planning a visit or simply curious about this Mediterranean gem, here are some of the most interesting facts about Malta that might surprise you.

1. Malta Has Some of the Oldest Freestanding Structures in the World

Everyone knows about the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge, but few realise that the prehistoric temples of Malta are even older. Sites like Ġgantija and Ħaġar Qim date back to around 3600 BC, making them some of the oldest freestanding stone structures on Earth.

2. Hollywood Loves Malta

Malta is a favourite filming location for major Hollywood productions. Its dramatic landscapes and ancient architecture have been featured in films and series such as Gladiator, Troy, World War Z and even Game of Thrones. The island often stands in for ancient Rome, the Middle East and fantasy worlds.

3. Malta Has Its Own Unique Language

Maltese is the only Semitic language written using the Latin alphabet. It is a blend of Arabic origins, with influences from Italian, Sicilian and English. Many everyday Maltese words sound familiar to Arabic speakers but also contain traces of European languages.

4. The Sea Is Always Close By

No matter where you are in Malta, you are never more than about twenty minutes from the sea. The country is one of the smallest in the world, with a total area of just above 300 square kilometres. For beach lovers and divers, this is paradise.

5. Malta Has an Impressive Number of Churches

There are more than 360 churches in Malta, which means one for almost every day of the year. The skyline is filled with domes and steeples, and many villages hold traditional festas to celebrate their patron saint with fireworks, music and food.

6. Valletta Is One of the Smallest Capitals in Europe

Valletta covers less than one square kilometre, yet it is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with architectural masterpieces, grand palaces and narrow streets full of character. It was also the first planned city in Europe, designed in the 1500s.

7. Malta Has No Natural Lakes or Rivers

Despite being surrounded by water, Malta has no natural lakes or rivers. Its water supply relies on groundwater and desalination plants. This is why water conservation is taken very seriously on the islands.

8. The Maltese Cross Has a Rich History

The iconic symbol of Malta, the eight pointed Maltese Cross, has origins linked to the Knights of Saint John. Each of the eight points is said to represent the knightly virtues, including loyalty, mercy and perseverance.

9. Malta Has Its Own Traditional Boat

The luzzu, a colourful fishing boat with painted eyes on the front, is one of the most recognisable symbols of Malta. The eyes, known as the Eyes of Osiris, are believed to protect fishermen at sea. You can see many luzzus in Marsaxlokk and other fishing villages.

10. Malta Enjoys More Than 300 Sunny Days a Year

Malta is one of the sunniest destinations in Europe, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. Its warm climate makes it ideal for outdoor activities, beach holidays and exploring its stunning coastal routes almost all year round.

Final Thoughts

Malta may be small, but it is astonishingly rich in history, culture and natural beauty. From ancient temples to cinematic landscapes and unique traditions, the island offers a perfect blend of old world charm and modern Mediterranean life.