Malta may be small in size – it covers just 122 square miles, with a population of just over half a million – but it packs a mighty punch when it comes to culture. Whether you’re a history buff, film geek, foodie or festival-lover, these islands have something for you.
The compact yet handsome capital, Valletta, is a great place to start; head for the imposing St John’s Co-Cathedral, an ornate, baroque cathedral built by the Order of St John, a Catholic medieval military organisation which used to rule Malta. The lavish gilt decoration showcases the wealth and power of the Knights of St John, who also constructed the nearby Grand Master’s Palace; it’s where the Maltese nation was officially established, and, during the period of British rule, was known as the Governor’s Palace.
St John’s Co-Cathedral is a must-see, from the baroque architecture to its incredible frescos
(Visit Malta)
Many more fascinating museums are dotted over the archipelago; go back to late-Neolithic times at the megalithic Haġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples in Qrendi, on Malta’s southwestern coast. Among the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world, they feature well-preserved carvings, chambers and doorways. Learn more about the islands’ proud, sea-faring past at the Malta Maritime Museum in Birgu, with its collection of artefacts including Roman-era anchors, cannons, and traditional boats – from there you can head to The Inquisitors Palace, a fascinating historic house and museum where you can immerse yourself in the Holy Roman Inquisition that dominated Malta for over 200 years.
An art lover? Valletta is home to several impressive galleries, including MUŻA, formerly the National Museum of Fine Arts. Located within the sandstone Auberge d’Italie, you’ll find a range of works by Maltese and foreign artists including sculpture, ceramics and photography. For more contemporary works, Blitz is an artist-run space spread over four floors in an elegant townhouse in the city centre, and Spazju Kreattiv, an organisation which hosts a programme of creative arts and cultural events around Malta and Gozo. Set in St James Cavalier, a 16th century fort, it runs everything from theatre performances to visual arts exhibitions, workshops, and film screenings at its arthouse cinema.
Film sets and festivals
The Feast of Our Lady of the Lily is celebrated in the town of Mqabba
(Visit Malta)
As well as showing films, Malta has served as the location for several; from scenes…
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