Interesting facts about Malta: unusual facts about the country

Malta is a miniature island state in the Mediterranean Sea, which has neither mountains nor rivers, but boasts a centuries-old history rich in amazing events. It holds the record for the density of cultural and historical monuments, boasts unique architecture and always hospitable people. Our review contains only the most recent and interesting facts about this amazing island country.

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Location Features

Although Malta officially manages 7 islands, only 3 of them are inhabited by people and have developed infrastructure. The state has a unique location, which is located at the crossroads of trade routes. Malta boasts the longest trading relationship with Sicily. The islands themselves have neither mountains, nor rivers, nor other sources of drinking water. Therefore, it is not always clear to visitors why local wine costs much more than ordinary water.

Until 1964, Malta was a colony of Great Britain, which could not but affect local traditions. For example, in Malta it is customary to drive on the left side of the street, and there are many reckless drivers among the drivers. English is the second state language and is included in the compulsory school curriculum.

By the way, the name of the Republic comes from the Phoenician word “malat”, which translates as “refuge”. Since ancient times, the island has been unofficially known as the “Land of Honey”, since large-scale honey production has always been developed here.

Public life

Not so long ago, in Malta, it became possible to acquire citizenship for money. Today, this pleasure costs about 650 thousand euros, although this method of obtaining status does not provide any advantages at all. Therefore, if there is no money, but you really want to get citizenship, you can go a longer, but less costly path.

Maltese streets are considered to be among the narrowest in the world. This layout creates shade from the houses and, according to the native Maltese, can serve as an excellent means of creating defensive fortifications in the event of an invasion. On the houses themselves, in addition to the usual numbers, you can see the names of their owners.

The main source of income for Malta is profit from the tourism business. Tourists bring a fourth of all state revenues. Every year, up to 1.2 million tourists from all over the world visit the island. This is due not only to unique sights, wonderful climate, but also some interesting myths. For example, one of the most common myths says that Malta is part of Atlantis, which once disappeared from the face of the earth.

No less interesting is the attitude of the Maltese towards marriage. If a person decides to tie the knot in his life, then he will be able to do this only once, and he will not be able to get a divorce. It is also strictly forbidden to have abortions on the islands. This taboo is even listed in the Basic Law of Malta.

Unusual facts

If you look closer at the Maltese church, you will be surprised to find two clocks. It is said that the clock, which is located on the right, shows the correct time and is intended for believers. And those that are located to the left are designed to confuse the unclean forces that tempt people.

According to scientists, the megalithic Maltese temples have an earlier origin than the famous Egyptian pyramids. Even the English Stonehenge appeared much later.

Thanks to the established close trade between the islands of Malta and Sicily, it was decided to build a bridge between them. Today its length is a record 93 km!

The Maltese are considered one of the most gambling people, so competitions here are a common thing.

In addition to tourism services, shipbuilding and electronics are considered profitable in Malta.

One of the most popular holiday destinations for visitors is the island of Comino, which has an area of ​​​​only 2 square meters. km. A chic hotel complex has been built on it, which will give you a wonderful vacation in complete seclusion. As for the native Maltese, no more than 4-5 people permanently live on the island.

Every second Maltese has to play any musical instrument, and the vast majority of children attend music schools.