WORDS & PICTURES: Abi Prowse
Embedded into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, this tiny cluster of islands forms one of the most unique destinations in Europe. Celebrated as a melting pot for a diverse range of cultures and traditions, Malta is a true fusion of its surrounding European and North African neighbours; even its language, a lyrical, melodious dialect descendant from Sicilian-Arabic, is representative of this mash-up of cultures. Malta’s sand-coloured edifices, splashed with colour by an array of wooden shutters, are almost Arabic in their design, yet are interspersed by ornate, imposing cathedrals and churches, which rise seemingly as you turn each corner. Although a predominantly Catholic country, Malta feels almost ensnared within a tug-of-war between its two closest-neighbouring countries: Italy and Tunisia. It is precisely this unique blend of traditions, alongside its unusual geography, that gives Malta its rustic charm.
Composed of a collection of three islands, Malta is encircled by a stretch of beautiful coastline, whose horizons seem to reach far beyond the short 80km distance which separates the country from the Italian island of Sicily. Perhaps one of Malta’s most well-visited spots is the impossibly picturesque Blue Lagoon, nestled into the north-western coast of the country’s most compact island: Comino. Its name inspired, of course, by the ocean’s infinite shades of blue, the still, shallow waters of this lagoon make a breathtaking backdrop for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing among the rocky cravices of the shore. Equally awe-striking are the northernmost coastlines of the island of Gozo, whose jagged rock formations and hidden coves will appeal to the adventurous traveller. From the astounding natural arch at Wied Il-Mielaħ to the geometric pools of the Xwejni Salt Pans, Gozo’s wild, dusty beauty is unlike any other coastal destination in the world.
Bask in the charm of the Mediterranean | Postcards from Cinque Terre, Italy
Malta’s capital, Valletta, is the smallest capital city within the European Union, but is definitely no less beautiful than its larger coutnerparts. Protruding from the headland and dangling over the lapping waters of the Mediterranean, Valletta’s shaded streets are bordered by rows of silent stone houses, the unexpectedly-organised tangle of alleys centred around the stunning St. John’s Co-Cathedral. The city itself is framed by a stone wall, punctuated by lush, manicured gardens, all proffering a picture-perfect, uninterrupted view across the sea. With its quiet courtyards and spattering of traditional restaurants and cafes, Valletta is tranquil yet vibrant; the perfect location to immerse yourself in the country’s intricate history and distinctive culture.
