Malta

The Jewel of the Mediterranean

Malta, officially the Republic of Malta (Repubblika ta’ Malta), is a small island nation in the central Mediterranean Sea. Known for its ancient temples, crystal-clear waters, and unique blend of European and Arab influences, Malta serves as a bridge between Africa and Europe — both geographically and culturally.

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🏛️ Formation & Historical Background

Key Timeline:

• ~5900 BCE: First Neolithic settlers arrive.

• 3600–2500 BCE: Megalithic temples built — older than Stonehenge or pyramids.

• 60 CE: St. Paul shipwrecks on Malta, spreading Christianity.

• 870 CE: Arab rule introduces irrigation and Maltese language roots.

• 1530: Knights of St. John establish Malta as their fortress base.

• 1798–1800: French occupation under Napoleon.

• 1800–1964: British rule — naval stronghold.

• 1964: Independence from the UK.

• 1974: Republic declared.

• 2004: Joined the European Union.

Malta’s story is one of survival, faith, and global crossroads.

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🧭 Basic National Information

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⚖️ Government and Leadership

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🗺️ Administrative Structure

• Islands: Malta (main island), Gozo, and Comino.

• Major Cities: Valletta, Sliema, Mdina, Birkirkara, Victoria (Gozo).

• Local Governance: Each locality has its own council.

• Capital District: Valletta – one of Europe’s smallest capitals but a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Malta is administratively divided into regions, districts, and local councils:

1. Regions (Reġjuni) – Total: 5 (for administrative/statistical purposes)

1. Central Region

2. Gozo Region

3. Northern Region

4. South Eastern Region

5. Southern Region

2. Districts – Total: 6 (used mainly for electoral and statistical purposes)

1. Southern Harbour District

2. Northern Harbour District

3. South Eastern District

4. Western District

5. Northern District

6. Gozo and Comino District

3. Local Councils (Kunsilli Lokali) – Total: 68 (including 14 in Gozo)

These are the smallest administrative units and include urban and rural localities. Notable examples:

• Valletta (Capital)

• Sliema, St. Julian’s, Birkirkara, Mosta, Qormi

• Rabat, Zabbar, Zejtun, Birżebbuġa

• Victoria (Rabat) – main town of Gozo

• Marsaxlokk, Mdina, Mellieħa, Nadur, Xagħra, Xewkija

Each local council is governed by an elected mayor and council, responsible for managing local services, infrastructure, and cultural initiatives.

Malta’s administrative model emphasizes local autonomy, regional identity, and efficient public service delivery across both mainland Malta and the sister island of Gozo.

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Local Government Structure

• Local councils manage municipal services, cultural events, and local development.

• The country is highly centralized, but local bodies play a role in urban maintenance and citizen engagement.

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Leadership & Governance

Malta is known for:

• Strong alignment with EU law, digital identity systems, and blockchain regulation

• Commitment to environmental protection, maritime jurisdiction, and press freedom reform

• Hosting key international summits, religious diplomacy, and offshore finance institutions

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Law Enforcement & Safety

• Primary agency: Malta Police Force (est. 1814)

• Other bodies: Armed Forces of Malta, Customs Department, Civil Protection Department

• Malta is a safe and peaceful country, with low violent crime and a strong legal framework.

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🌐 Geography & Environment

• Location: Central Mediterranean, south of Italy and north of Libya.

• Landscape: Rocky coastline, harbors, cliffs, limestone valleys, and beaches.

• Climate: Mediterranean – hot, dry summers and mild winters.

• Natural Wonders: Blue Lagoon (Comino), Dingli Cliffs, Blue Grotto, Gozo countryside.

Malta’s position made it a strategic naval and trade hub for millennia.

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🕌 Religion, Language & Culture

Maltese culture beautifully blends Arab linguistic heritage with European spirituality.

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📈 Economy & Key Sectors

Malta is known as a digital and financial hub in the Mediterranean.

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🎓 Education & Healthcare

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✈️ Transport & Infrastructure

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🏞️ Tourism & Attractions

Top Destinations:

• Valletta: St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Grand Harbour

• Mdina: The Silent City

• Gozo: Azure Window site, Ġgantija Temples

• Comino: Blue Lagoon

• Rabat: Catacombs of St. Paul

• Mosta Dome: Iconic church with massive dome

Malta offers a mix of ancient history, crystal waters, and timeless spirituality.

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🌍 Global Role & Relations

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📝 Summary

Malta is a living museum of civilizations — from prehistoric temples to Islamic irrigation systems and British colonial heritage.
It stands as a symbol of peace, endurance, and Mediterranean charm.

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📢 News & Articles

• “Malta’s Islamic Past and the Legacy of Al-Andalus”

• “Valletta – The Fortress City of the Mediterranean”

• “Why Malta Is a Global Hub for Fintech and Film”

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🎯 AFP Insight

AFP recognizes Malta as a vital link in the Mediterranean’s historical and cultural chain — a small nation with a global identity rooted in resilience and coexistence.

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📬 Contact Us

Share your stories or photos from Malta’s islands — enrich AFP’s knowledge archive for global understanding.