Covering an area of no more than 316km² (78,052 acres), the Maltese islands are situated in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea. About 300km (186 miles) north of Libya and 93km (58 miles) south of Sicily, this island group is made up of three inhabited islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino and two small uninhabited islets, Cominotto and Filfla.


There is an enormous wealth of history to be explored on these ancient islands. They have been subject to numerous invasions and occupations over the centuries by forces ranging from the Normans to, most recently, the British. From 1530 to 1798 the islands were owned and ruled by the Knights of the Order of St John. Their influence can be seen in the architecture and the strong religious tradition among the Maltese. Malta is noted for having the highest percentage (87%) of active churchgoers in Europe. Malti and English are the official languages, although Italian is also generally spoken.

There are no rivers, lakes or mountains on the Maltese islands and more than half the water used comes from converted sea water. Geographically, the land consists mainly of sandstone, while Gozo appears far greener because of its thicker subsoil. Like most of the Mediterranean, the Maltese islands experience mild to warm temperatures during the summer, while the winters can get chilly.

With more than a third of their national income derived from tourism, these islands have a lot to offer the traveller. Horse-riding, archery, golf, as well as a number of water sports can all be enjoyed here. With numerous white sand beaches, protected bays and lagoons, fascinating historical architecture and warm, welcoming people, the Maltese islands, truly are, a Mediterranean paradise.

Art/Architecture, Arts & Culture, Cultural Tours, History
Malta, Malta attractions, Malta tourism