Malta is a small island nation with a population of 400,000. It has a rich history dating back to 3200-2500 BC, with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantine Empire, Arabs, and Europeans. Malta became an independent nation in 1964 and is now a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful architecture and Mediterranean climate. It is also a member of the European Union and will adopt the euro as its main currency in 2008.
Malta is a small island nation located approximately 58 miles (93km) south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. Its population of 400,000 (2005) inhabits only three of its seven islands: the Island of Malta, Gozo and Comino. Its location halfway between the Suez Canal and Gibraltar has made it a much desired location today, as well as throughout history.
Malta was settled as early as 3200 to 2500 BC, as evidenced by a temple which is one of the oldest structures in the world, built by a now extinct society. In 700 BC, the Phoenicians settled the islands and it was used as a stopover on the Mediterranean trade route. As with most nations in the region, Malta fell under Roman control in 218 BC. The Romans would prove to be one of Malta’s major influences, as witnessed today in its culture and architecture.
One of the most famous shipwrecks of antiquity is the shipwreck of St. Paul in Malta in AD 40. For Christians it was perhaps divine intervention: the pagan population was subsequently converted and Roman Catholicism remains the number one religion practiced.
From the 4th to the 9th century, Malta was under the control of the Byzantine Empire, followed by the Vandals, then by the Arabs in the 9th century AD. The biggest mark the Arabs made on Malta was its influence on the nation’s primary language, the Maltese. In the late 11th century, a long list of Europeans took turns ruling Malta. In 4, the Spanish king Charles V granted the island nation to an order of knights, giving birth to the famous “Knights of Malta”.
Malta was also occupied for a while by Napoleon’s troops, but in 1814 it became a member of the British Empire. On 21 September 1964 Malta became an independent nation and is currently governed by a parliamentary system. Malta’s location has proven to be its greatest asset throughout history, with few exports other than its main export, limestone. Educated workers are another Maltese export: education is free for all citizens.
Due to its location, beautiful architecture and Mediterranean climate, Malta is quite a popular tourist destination with diving, nightlife, golf, beach and water sports being the preferred diversions. Malta’s film industry is growing, with many major films being shot there. Malta is a member of the European Union (EU) and will adopt the euro as its main currency on 1 January 2008.
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