Let's Explore the Traditions and Culture of Malta!

 

Photo by Tomas Ellmenreich from Unsplash

A Glimpse of the Past from the Modern Times

Want to step back in the ancient time? Or simply gain a glimpse of life as it was lived for ages? Well, let's look at it from a modern time! Join me as I visit (virtually) the heart of the Mediterranean, the Isles of Malta! Let us equip ourselves with knowledge as we tour their land, experiencing their culture and traditions!

The Heart of the Mediterranean

Photo by Google Maps

As one of Europe’s smallest countries located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, between Sicily of Italy and the Tunisia of North Africa, Malta holds various cultures and traditions. Yes, you read it right; although many of you may not be aware of it, Malta is a country of its own that has been independent since 1964 after being governed by the British from 1814 to that year.

As formerly ruled by the British, English is widely spoken in Malta and is one of the country’s official languages. Other than that, locals speak Maltese as their official language which is a mix of Italian, Arabic, French, and English (maybe I should start learning the basics).

It Is Actually an Archipelago!

Photo by Wikipedia

Actually, Malta is an archipelago made up of three islands: Malta, Comino, and Gozo. Aside from that, visiting Malta allows you to see not only one but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites! One of which is Valletta, the country's capital city, where you can find beautiful cathedrals and historical infrastructures that hold cultural events; I imagine that being here might seem to separate us from today's world. Besides, Valletta was the European Capital of Culture in 2018.  And if you are a great fan of ancient and medieval architecture, Malta is the place to go! Aside from that, you will also see the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum and Malta's Megalithic Temples, which are older than the Pyramid and Stonehenge.

                        

                        Malta's UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Photo by Heritage Malta, Nick Fewings, and Odyssey Traveller  

Miracle of The Mosta Dome

Photo by Times of Malta and Petar Avramoski 

Despite the fact that its ancient and medieval structures remain standing today, Malta was one of the most heavily bombed regions on the planet during WWII, with over 30,000 structures damaged, including historical landmarks and churches. But did you know that the iconic dome-shaped roof of one of Malta's largest churches, The Mosta Dome, somehow survived, it is a miracle indeed!

 A Haven for Films And TV Series

It is also apparent that it is a great setting for filmmaking. Well, Malta has been a famous filming site for films and series such as Game of Thrones Gladiator, Popeye, and many more. To all the fans out there, do not miss out on this kind of experience!

Photo by Michaela from Pexel

 The Silent City

Malta is also the home of the silent city of Mdina, which was formerly the capital of Malta and is one of the ancient cities referenced in the Bible in the Gospel of St. Paul. I would love to be here!

Photo by Polina Kovaleva from Pexel

 Must Visit Places!

Places to visit while in Malta include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Blue Lagoon, Marsaxlokk, The Island of Gozo, Mdina, Rabat, Cottonera, The Popeye Village, Ghar Dalam, The Blue Grotto, Mellieha, Sliema and many more!

 

Photo by Quentin Basnier, Mike Nahlii. David Alfons, and Spruce

Photo by Artem Lobastov from Unsplash

Catholicism in Malta

    Although Malta has been home to various cultures over the years, the religion of Malta is Roman Catholic. And may date back to St. Paul's arrival and has only expanded; as a result, Knights of St. John's religious order. Additionally, Malta has around 365 Catholic churches, one signifying each day of the year.

 Feast, Festa, Festivals!

As the country is mainly Catholic, a significant aspect of its culture is hosting numerous festivities and celebrations in honor of the patron saints throughout the year. There will also be a procession there with men bearing the large statue of the patron saint on their shoulders. The Maltese cherish the privilege and honor of being one of the statue carriers as part of their devotion. And I think I would love to witness how they celebrate that!

Mnarja

Photo by Green Global Travel

Mnarja, a traditional summer feast, is also one of Malta's cultural events; at this festival, you may experience several Maltese traditions and cultural practices. Since the 16th century, bonfires, candles, and lamps have been lit in honor of the Saints on June 29th, which is why Mnarja is also known as luminarja, which emanated from the Latin phrase Luminaire (to light up). I’m sure it would be wonderful to witness the lights!

 The festival starts the day before, and the main dish served is their traditional stuffat tal-fenek or rabbit stew in which Phonecians are said to have introduced rabbits to the island over 3,000 years ago. The event served as a symbol of good fortune for newlyweds, with brides attending in their bridal gowns to bring fortune to their marriage. Speaking of marriage, one of the weird traditional facts according to the article shared by Urpani (2018), if you don’t want to rain on your wedding day you have to give raw turkey to nuns.

Carnival at Malta

Photo by Maltatina

 

The five-day Carnival festival in Malta, which is also translated as "Meat is allowed," is another cultural event that takes place throughout February or the first few weeks of March and is one of the oldest festivities. In accordance with a centuries-old custom, this festival often begins with the Parata Dance, a sword dance in remembrance of Malta's victory against the Turks in 1565, followed by a performance of song and dance. In addition, there are several late-night celebrations, mask and costume contests, masked balls, marching bands, and a lively parade of huge floats traveling through the streets of Valletta; while there are also carnivals in several villages. Of course, there is always a fireworks display at every Maltese feast. These are something that we don’t want to miss!

Values and Norms

Photo by ReubenFarrugia from Unsplash

Moving on, let us learn about the norms, customs, and values, which is essential knowledge to gain before visiting their country, (better to be aware than never). Now that we are already aware that Malta is a religious nation with very traditional values and norms, it is still a habit for them to attend mass on Sunday. Other than that, there is also nothing to be concerned about because Maltese people are normally kind and helpful. Additionally, they like entertaining and greeting visitors and are always glad to have conversations. However, they are very traditionalist and dislike some of the habits that visitors bring.

What about the Do's and Don'ts?

Now what are the dos and don’t in Malta? According to Scroope (2017)

• 

  Photo by Id23 from Unsplash

  If we decided to go to a church, we have to be sure to dress properly as an act of respect. When entering, shoulders must be covered.
• We must refrain from boasting about our wealth (well for me, I have nothing to brag about lol ) 
• Additionally, modesty is crucial to Maltese.
• Apart from that, people could find swearing offensive. Be careful not to say anything or use words that might offend them. 
• In addition, a lot of them are open to talking about everything, but be mindful when bringing up topics like sports, politics, or immigration as these can lead to tense arguments or conflicts. 
• When it comes to etiquette, one of the most basic is that individuals dress properly and modestly. 
• Although this is a custom in many countries, we must be conscious that hats should be removed before entering someone's home or a church. 
• Many of them like socializing in their neighbors' houses. 

  

  Photo by Id23 from Unsplash

• It is considered courteous to plan a visit ahead of time. In most cases, hosts will provide their visitors with a drink and small snacks (bread, cookies, sandwiches, or cakes). When invited to a meal, visitors frequently bring a present of wine, chocolate, or flower. 
• To let others know that one has finished their meal, the fork and knife are put parallel on the dish. 
• Hands should be maintained above the table. 
• When a gift is received, it is normally unwrapped in front of the giver.
  
  

You Might Wanna Know About These Other Facts:

Photo by Kristina Paukshtite from Pexels

• Before traveling to Malta, we have to be aware that people there drive on the left side of the road, especially if we are going to drive and roam around the country and its cities.
• Shopping is life, right? However, be mindful that several stores have different hours of operation. On Sundays and especially on public holidays, several stores are closed. Asking around in the area where you will be staying is your best strategy.
• Most of the drinking water is filtered straight from the sea.
• Make sure to stop by the local crafts village in Ta'Qali and buy some of their well-known Maltese lace and glass-blowing.
• You would not want to miss out on watching the cannons being fired at midday and four in the afternoon at the Saluting Battery in Valletta. 
• If you love K-pop, BTS visited Malta in 2018 for their Bon Voyage Season 3

 Another reason to visit Malta, especially if you enjoy the sun, is that it is one of Europe's sunniest nations! Personally, I enjoy summertime and sunshine with a gentle breeze!

 

“Understanding languages and other cultures builds bridges. 

It is the fastest way to bring the world closer together and to Truth. Through understanding, people will be able to see their similarities before differences.”

- Suzy Kassem

 

TIt is really necessary that before visiting a nation, we have to learn about its culture and traditions first. And now that we are acquainted with some of its culture and traditions, I think we should start planning a vacation to Malta now.  Malta definitely would be one of my destinations if I had the opportunity to travel. And if you've been to Malta, please tell me about your experience.

Video by Polina Kovaleva from Pexel

Photo by Lorenzo Castellino from Pexels

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