Colours of Malta

In the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino look like sad stones. They may be of little interest, but for centuries, the geographical situation of the Maltese archipelago gives a strategic importance.

Its location, 100 km south of Sicily and 300 km east of Tunisia is the source of a rich historical past because of shifting allegiances. Many civilizations have coveted Malta, capturing every turn this small island territory. The arrival of the Knights of St. John (now Knights of Malta), who took possession of the island in 1523 and founded Valletta, then the British domination after the French one, are two major chapters in the history of these islands which became the Republic of Malta in 1974. Even in our time, Malta remains important as a military position, during possible conflicts, as it was during the Second World War.

In peacetime, this location became an economic resource. Indeed, at the crossroads of routes crisscrossing the southern Mediterranean, Malta has become a transhipment point for freight shipping. The company CMA CGM has established its hub for the Mediterranean in Malta.

Administrative and commercial capital of the Malta archipelago, Valletta is lively and animated. Built from all parts in the sixteenth century in just 15 years, the Baroque fortress city is today a World Heritage of Humanity. In addition to its bastions, its cathedrals and palaces, it conceals of more discreet charms: plethora of votive statues, niches, fountains, shields and ceramics adorned with saints and angels bearing the house numbers.

Texte : Anne Jankeliowitch and palaces, it conceals of more discreet charms: plethora of votive statues, niches, fountains, shields and ceramics adorned with saints and angels bearing the house numbers.

Texte : Anne Jankeliowitch