Countries

17 Fascinating Facts About Malta

FFacts On Tap Editorial Team Fact-checked Updated January 16, 2026 4 min read

Malta is a tiny archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea with an outsized history, sitting at the crossroads of Europe and North Africa. From prehistoric temples older than Stonehenge to a starring role in Hollywood epics, this island nation packs a lot into just 316 square kilometers.

Here are 17 fascinating facts about Malta's history, culture, and people.

Malta's capital is Valletta, and the country has a population of roughly 540,000, making it one of the most densely populated nations in the world.
Malta's official languages are Maltese and English, its currency is the Euro, and it is governed as a parliamentary republic.
The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is a UNESCO World Heritage underground burial complex dating to around 4000-2500 BC, carved directly into the rock.
Mdina, known as the 'Silent City,' served as Malta's capital from antiquity through the medieval period and is famed for its narrow streets and fortified walls.
The Knights of St. John (the Knights Hospitaller) ruled Malta from 1530 to 1798, and their influence still shapes the country's art, architecture, and culture.
In the Great Siege of 1565, an Ottoman force of roughly 40,000 tried to take Malta but was repelled by about 500 Knights of St. John and several thousand Maltese and Spanish defenders after nearly four months of fighting.
St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, built in the 1570s for the Knights of St. John, is a Baroque masterpiece that houses two Caravaggio paintings, including 'The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.'
Maltese is the only Semitic language written in the Latin alphabet, blending Arabic roots with heavy Italian, Sicilian, and English influence.
Malta's Carnival, held every February, dates back to the early 16th century and features music, dancing, and elaborate costumes.
The Azure Window, a famous limestone sea arch on the island of Gozo, collapsed into the sea in March 2017 due to natural erosion; the site is still a popular dive spot.
Traditional Maltese cuisine includes rabbit stew (fenkata), pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas), and ħobż biż-żejt (bread topped with tomato paste and olive oil).
The Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves on Malta's southeastern coast, is famous for its glowing azure waters and can be explored by boat.
The 1941 film noir classic 'The Maltese Falcon,' starring Humphrey Bogart, takes its name from a fictional statuette and is not actually set in Malta.
Malta's Megalithic Temples, including Ġgantija, Ħaġar Qim, and Mnajdra, were built between roughly 3600 and 2500 BC, making them among the oldest free-standing structures on Earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During World War II, Malta was a besieged British colony and strategic naval base; in 1942 King George VI awarded the entire island the George Cross for its endurance under heavy bombing.
Malta's Festa Season runs through the summer, with each village holding its own celebration for its patron saint, complete with processions and fireworks.
The eight-pointed Maltese Cross is closely associated with the Knights of St. John and remains a national symbol of Malta today.
Malta's varied landscapes and historic architecture have made it a popular filming location for productions including 'Gladiator,' 'Troy,' and 'Game of Thrones.'
Comino, a tiny island between Malta and Gozo, is home to the Blue Lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise water.

Frequently asked questions

What is Malta famous for?

Malta is known for its ancient Megalithic Temples, the fortified city of Mdina, St. John's Co-Cathedral, its role in World War II, and as a filming location for movies and TV shows.

Where is Malta located?

Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean, about 93 km (58 miles) south of Sicily and roughly 290 km (180 miles) north of Libya. It is a member of the European Union.

What is the climate like in Malta?

Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, and it enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year.

What currency is used in Malta?

Malta uses the Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, though it's useful to carry some cash for smaller shops and rural areas.

Is English widely spoken in Malta?

Yes. English is one of Malta's two official languages alongside Maltese, is taught in schools, and is spoken fluently by most of the population.

What notable people come from Malta?

Notable Maltese figures include former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, footballer Michael Mifsud (Malta's all-time top scorer), singer Ira Losco (who placed second at Eurovision 2002 and twelfth in 2016), and poet Dun Karm Psaila, who wrote the lyrics to Malta's national anthem.

Sources & further reading

Reviewed by the Facts On Tap Editorial Team

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