Discover Malta: Stories from the Mediterranean

The A to Z of Malta

Gudja (pronounced Goodia)

Gudja is a village located on a small hill close to Malta International Airport and dates back to the 14th century. The medieval church, and the narrow winding streets of Gudja show how old the village is. The church is the only church in Malta with three bell towers and is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, and has the oldest procession statue in Malta, which was sculpted out of solid wood in 1807.

A walk around Gudja offers a number of interesting features. Probably the most notable, is the Palazzo D’Aurel, also known as Palazzo Bettina, where Napoleon is believed to have lived during his short rule in Malta. Around the village there are old, carved limestone balconies and inscriptions on houses dating back to the 1500’s.

Palazzo D’Aurel

Gzira (pronounced Ga Zera)

Gzira is a town located on the northeastern coast of Malta, and lies between the towns of Sliema and Msida and is known for its waterfront, lively atmosphere, and convenient location.

One of the main attractions in Gzira is its promenade, which offers stunning views of Valletta across the water and is a popular spot for leisurely walks, jogging, or simply sitting and relaxing. Gzira has numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Along the waterfront, there are a variety of dining options offering both local Maltese cuisine and international dishes.

Connected to Gzira by a bridge, Manoel Island is a small islet that houses historic buildings, gardens, and a yacht marina. It's a peaceful escape from the bustling town and provides a pleasant area for walks.

Hamrun (pronounced Hamrune)

Hamrun is located in the central part of Malta, making it relatively close to the capital city of Valletta and easily accessible from various parts of the island. It is primarily a residential area with a mix of traditional Maltese townhouses, apartment buildings, and some modern developments. The town has a dense population and a strong sense of community.

It also has a strong sporting tradition, particularly in football. The local football club, Hamrun Spartans FC, is one of Malta's most successful football teams and holds a significant place in the town's identity. There are several churches in Hamrun, including the famous St. Gaetan's Parish Church, dedicated to Saint Cajetan, which is an important religious and historical site in the town.

St Gaetan’s Parish Church

Iklin (pronounced Ik-Clean)

Iklin is a small town located in the central part of Malta, near the towns of Naxxar (pronounced Nashar), Birkirkara, and Lija (pronounced Le-Ar). and is primarily a residential area with a mixture of townhouses, apartments, and some newer residential complexes. It's a popular place to live for both Maltese residents and expatriates due to its peaceful atmosphere.

Despite its urban setting, Iklin has some green areas and parks, providing residents with spaces for recreation, leisure activities, and relaxation. Overall, Iklin is a quiet town that provides a peaceful living environment, and its appeal lies in its serene atmosphere, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Flags

There are a number of flags used throughout the Maltese islands, and here is a list of the more important ones.

​​​​​​​​​​​The National Flag of Malta

The National Flag of Malta consists of two equal vertical stripes, white and red, with a representation of the George Cross, edged with red, in the top left of the white stripe. The width of the flag is one and a half times its height. As for the colours themselves, the red colour is thought to symbolise sacrifices made by the Maltese people for defending their faith, while the white colour signifies peace, love, light and optimism.

It is the custom to display the National Flag of Malta only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and flagpoles. However, it can be displayed at night on special occasions, and in such cases it must be floodlit.

​The Coat of Arms (or Emblem)

The coat of arms of Malta is a shield showing the National Flag of Malta. Above the shield is a crown in gold with eight turrets (five only being visible) representing the fortifications of Malta and denoting a City State. Around the shield are two branches, one of Olives and one of Palms, which are symbols of peace that are traditionally associated with Malta, and tied at the base with a white ribbon, upon which are written the words "Repubblika ta' Malta" in black capital letters.

​​The Presidential Flag of Malta

The Presidential Flag of Malta was introduced by Proclamation dated 12th December, 1988. This flag is flown on the President's official residences and offices and on all occasions at which he is present. It has the same proportions as the National Flag and is blue, with the Emblem of Malta at its centre, and a Maltese Cross in gold in each corner.

The Merchant Flag of Malta

The Merchant Flag of Malta introduced by the Merchant Shipping Act is red and bordered in white, with a white Maltese Cross at its centre.

​​​The Flag used by the Archbishop of Malta 

This is the flag used by the Archbishop of Malta, and has two equal vertical stripes, yellow and white. Note: I have added the black border to give the picture some clarity.

​​The Pennant used by the Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta

​​​​​​​​​​​​The pennant used by the Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta is red with the symbol of the Armed Forces in gold at its centre. 

The Pennant used by the Commissioner of the Police Force

​​The pennant used by the Commissioner of the Police Force is blue with the symbol of the Police Force at its centre.
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Another Legend

The Crucifix Tree, also known as the Jesus Tree, is probably one of the most famous trees ever to inhabit the island. The tree, an Apello Pine, was struck by lightning many years ago, and changed in appearance. Its twisted bark turned into an image of Jesus hanging from the cross. Faithful locals soon made the tree a place of pilgimage, considering it an apparition of sorts. The tree even has a plaque at its base, with candles and fresh flowers placed there regularly by the devout.

The tree can be found off the main road from Zebbug to the walled city of Mdina, the former home of the Knights Hospitalier.

Troglodyte Settlement

Bingemma is a small village located on the outer limits of Mgarr, and there can be found a series of prehistoric tombs and cave dwellings. These troglodytic sites stretch across different levels. Some are fairly shallow, but others contain corridors that wind their way into even further caves and chambers.

The origins of the site are shrouded in mystery. Archaeologists can’t reach an agreement on what time period they’re from. Some say the site dates from the Bronze Age, and others insist that they are the remains of catacombs from a 1st century Greek cemetery. One thing is certain, and that is the caves served as a hiding spot for locals during the bombings of World War 2.