Malta * Sixtyexpress

Malta

After 3 attempts we have finally made it to Malta. It is not the full tourist season so it is not packed yet so you won’t have to dodge too many people. As we haven’t been here before, I think a tour is the way to go so we can see as much as possible. Down the hill to the bus…..(you have noticed there are quite a few hills). The itinerary is Sliema ➡️ San Anton Gardens and Palace ➡️ Rabat ➡️ Mdina ➡️ Dingli ➡️ Ta’Qali ➡️Mosta. Jam packed I know, but Malta has a complicated history of different countries or groups being in control.

First thing you notice are the Spanish inspired stone buildings everywhere.

Malta was settled by the Phoenicians, then the Roman,and the Byzantines. That’s not all as next came the Arabs and when they were kicked out, Malta became part of the Kingdom of Sicily. When it looked like the Ottomans were going to invade, The order of St John ( think fighting Templar knights and doctor knights) took up residence and stayed for 200 years. French moved in next. The Maltese took a dislike to them and invited the British. The people of Malta are a Heinz variety genetically but still are linked to the Phoenicians. The architecture does reflect all these groups although much was destroyed by both earthquakes and war.

History lesson over, here we are at the gardens.

The Presidential palace backs onto the gardens and was the original residence of the gardens founder.It would be lovely to have access to them at anytime don’t you agree but we have to go to the next place. Rabat is not far from the original capital of Malta, Mdina. The countryside is divided up into small farms surrounded by dry walls. These stop the shallow soils from blowing away and since most are sloped, maximise the moisture.

I am amazed that they can grow three harvests a year of most vegetables especially as for 5 months ,there is no rain. Did you like the fact that Dutch farmers come and plant potatoes? Later they come and share the harvest with local farmers and take home half the potatoes.

There is a one church for every 2000 people. You can walk to your local.

Under the church of St Cathaldus are catacombs. I found a fun fact that the owners of the land lived underground in two rooms. Creepy. More creepy is the agape table.Imagine having a picnic with all those dead bodies.

Next stop the cliffs of Dingli….just a quick photo stop. This is the highest point on the island.

Loads of wild fennel and snapdragons

Mdina was at one time the capital of Malta. It is in a central position so perfect for controlling an island. The Knights turned the once Roman city into a city of outstanding beauty. Streets are narrow aren’t they? The buildings have been damaged by earthquakes in the past but you can hardly tell. When the city is not overwhelmed with us travellers, doors are left open, some have little gates in front of them. Imagine the milkman bringing you milk…except you have to choose which goat you wantmilked, no pesky goats inside and extra fresh milk. Those were the days.

All bus tours must include some retail therapy. What is Malta famous for…..filigree jewellery, pottery and glass. A quick visit to Ta’Qali artisan centre.

Yes Mike found a mug for his collection. Did you find anything you liked?

Last stop is an amazing church, the Mosta Rotunda. It has an amazing history. Can you imagine looking at it , that it was built around another church and that its dome is unsupported? What do you think of it? During the last World War, Malta was bombed repeatedly. One bomb came straight through the dome but it didn’t collapse and the bomb didn’t explode. Quite a miracle !