Listen to “Malta and Running” on Spreaker. <\/a><\/p>\nThe Republic of Malta corresponds to a small archipelago consisting of three different main islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino, as well as smaller ones. They are all located southeast of Sicily and framed by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Malta immediately presents itself as a must-see and unique location, especially in summer, precisely because of the white sands of the beaches, which attract and host thousands of Italian and foreign tourists every year. Within this state, the official language is English, although the native people often speak a particular dialect: this is Arabic, mixed with Sicilian and English. The country’s coastline holds the scents of a seaside resort, releasing the delicate essence of wild thyme and brackish water. In the town of Rabat, it is possible to appreciate the only semi-natural woodland area in the archipelago: the Buskett Woodlands, idyllic gardens where Maltese can relax, observing the natural habitat of some migratory birds at particular times of the year. It currently corresponds to one of the greenest places on the island of Malta and also features some fruit trees and graceful flowers such as the Brown Orchid. The San Anton Gardens are another example of a graceful attraction offered by the island, a true Baroque splendor. In fact, the gardens house the Palace of the State President, his official residence. The structure was dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua, one of the masters of the Knights Templar order. This two-story building can be found in the center of Attard, one of the three villages with Balzan and Lija. The former location is famous not only for what was mentioned above, so gardens and palace, but it is also famous for its citrus groves. In fact, the Latin motto “I perfume the air with my flowers” has become widespread. Attard is also home to the famous chapel of the Virgin of Pilar, whose frescoes were curated by Stefano Erardi during the early Baroque period. Speaking of art, inside the capital is the Co-cathedral of St. John, a structure completed in 1577 and characterized by three naves: one main and two secondary naves. It is also important to note the presence of the entire floor made of fine marble. It corresponds to the church most visited by tourists from all over the world as it holds important works by Caravaggio. It is known with certainty that the Compagnia della Misericordia commissioned the paintings. The most important work is the “Beheading of St. John the Baptist,” a painting still preserved in the altar of the same place of worship in the city. It is an oil on canvas of the highest artistic and cultural value.<\/p>\n
One of the smallest capitals at the European level is precisely that of Malta: Valletta. The small town, with just six thousand inhabitants, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, this small city offers numerous attractions. The Fountain of the Tritons is an example of architecture created by Vincent Apap. Recently, in 2018, this place was renovated and modified in order to become one of the most immense squares in the capital. Currently, there is also a pedestrian area that can be easily reached through numerous bus lines. Renzo Piano, a famous architect of Italian origin, oversaw the design for Malta’s new parliament, located in Valletta. It is one of the most innovative structures in existence and, for this reason, has become a place reached by tourists from all over the world. Located in the center of the capital, the National Library of Malta offers the most immense collection of books centered on the city itself. The facade of the building was created in the neoclassical style, built in the late 18th century. In front of this building, a wonderful cafeteria is located: Caf\u00e9 Cordina. It is the oldest on the island of Malta. Nonetheless, the preservation of the place is excellent and corresponds to a small ravine of Italy, right in the historic center of Valletta. This place is ideal for savoring local delicacies, but also for admiring the cafeteria’s simply stunning interior. Mighty walls separate the crystal clear sea from the capital. They correspond to ramparts from the 1500s, designed for military purposes and, although no longer used nowadays, have become an integral part of the Maltese landscape. The capital also coincides with a veritable open-air museum, as countless buildings, featuring colorful balconies made entirely of wood, stand among the city’s extremely small streets. Valletta’s waterfront is also an important and distinctive feature, referred to as the Pinto Wharf. A dated aristocratic residence is Casa Rocca Piccola, a complex that is now open to the public and can be visited thanks to different figures who conduct guided tours. In fact, for a fairly affordable price, it is possible to follow a guided tour often organized directly by the owners. Important in World War II, in its underground tunnels it housed several people, as it was suitable for anti-aircraft defense. Certainly, the magic of the place is enchanting. Inside Casa Rocca Piccola are exhibited the most important collections of lace and old dresses, used on all occasions. Furniture, paintings and silverware are also of no lesser prestige, indeed appreciable in all their series.
\nMalta’s unmistakable atmosphere is also visible through the crystal clear sea. In fact, there are different bathing establishments, full of relaxation for those who want to experience a perfect vacation in total tranquility. Beaches of the finest white sand contrast with the wonderful turquoise-hued marine environment. Every year, in fact, tourists from all over the world come to this resort to fully enjoy an unparalleled sight: the clear, clear water of the sea. Mellieha Bay is one of the most popular and renowned, especially by families. At this place there is Ghadira Bay, an often crowded shoreline that is constantly teeming with tourists. Because of this peculiarity, the shore is not suitable for lovers of relaxation, who can, however, take refuge in a small cove of the coast: Paradise Bay. The latter is known for the marvelous sunsets on the horizon. It is main destination for couples seeking a moment of sweet intimacy. One of Malta’s most beautiful beaches is the one that encloses the Cave of Calypso, featured in Homer’s work: the Odyssey. Located in Ramla Bay, this place holds numerous legends. In fact, it is said that Odysseus’ soul is present inside the cave and that he did not escape from the nymph Calypso, as described in the Odyssey itself. Some local people claim to have heard some sounds and voices coming from the cave.<\/p>\n
Dating back to 3600 B.C., the two temples of Ggantija stand as an archaeological site of fundamental historical and cultural importance. In 1980, they were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as they are presumed to be the oldest human work in the world. These two structures are even older than the pyramids of Egypt and were the scene of religious rituals.
\nA final special feature of Malta is the order of the Knights of St. John, better known as the Knights Templar order. Established in 1118, the order initially consisted of only eleven monks of French origin. The number later grew and became thousands. The French king Philip the Fair, most likely concerned about their immense prestige, decided to condemn them. This marked the decline of the order in 1307. After being arrested, they were tortured and finally sentenced to be burned at the stake as witches. The charges attributed to them were various, for example idolatry or sodomy. Legends tell that they were the protectors of the Holy Grail or the Ark of the Covenant. Currently, the Order of the Knights of Malta is recognized by the state itself.<\/p>\n
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