5 Reasons Why VirtualMalta.com is Your Gateway to Malta’s Rich Heritage

Jan 20 2025

VirtualMalta.com is redefining how Malta’s cultural and religious heritage is experienced, blending state-of-the-art technology with compelling storytelling. Here are five reasons why this innovative platform, a project initiated by the Eastern Regional Council (formerly Reġjun Ċentru), is a must-visit for history lovers, students, and travellers alike:

1. Immersive Virtual Tours of Malta’s Historic Churches

VirtualMalta.com began by bringing Malta’s parish churches to life, showcasing their intricate artistry and centuries-old history.

Using advanced VR technology, each detail of these sacred spaces has been meticulously captured, offering visitors a fully immersive experience like no other. From awe-inspiring domes to stunning frescoes, it’s like stepping back in time from wherever you are.

2. Accessibility for Everyone, Everywhere

Whether you’re using a VR headset, tablet, computer, or smartphone, VirtualMalta.com is designed for all devices.

This accessibility ensures everyone can enjoy Malta’s cultural treasures—be it students, tourists, or local visitors—making it easy to explore history from the comfort of your own home or on the go.

3. Perfect for Tourism and Education

VirtualMalta.com doubles as a powerful tool for both tourism and education.

International travellers can preview Malta’s beauty before their trip, while students can dive into interactive lessons that bring history to life. It’s an inspiring way to connect with Malta’s unique culture, fostering a deeper understanding of its heritage.

4. Expanding Beyond Churches to Showcase All of Malta

What started with parish churches has now grown to include other cultural and historic sites across the Maltese Islands, thanks to support from the Malta Tourism Authority.

From ancient streets to iconic landmarks, VirtualMalta.com now offers a broader glimpse into the artistry and history that define Malta’s identity.

5. A Vision for the Future

VirtualMalta.com isn’t stopping here. Plans to expand into schools and integrate the platform into cultural events promise even greater reach. This ensures Malta’s heritage is preserved and shared globally, engaging future generations and keeping its rich history alive.

VirtualMalta.com combines technology and tradition to revolutionize how we experience heritage.

Whether you’re a traveler, a history enthusiast, or a student, this platform offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore Malta’s cultural treasures like never before. Visit VirtualMalta.com today and embark on an unforgettable journey!

#MaltaDaily

Two Hedgehogs Released Back Into The Wild

Jan 20 2025

Wildlife Rescue Team Malta released 2 adorable hedgehogs back into local nature.

Luca, a light coloured hedgehog, was found as an 82g hoglet and now weighing just over 400g. Having been weaned onto natural food, Luca could return to exploring the wild.

Meanwhile, Zombie was found with severe burns on all 4 of his paws. He had to endure a long recovery, lost a couple of toes in the process, but has ultimately fully recovered and could go back to his adventures.

‘All the animals we rescue are protected species and it is illegal in Malta to keep them as pets.’

‘If you spot any of the wild animals that we rescue injured or in danger, please call the Wildlife Rescue Team on 99999505.’

#MaltaDaily

Pay Tribute To Voices Of Remembrance With Prof. Immanuel Mifsud

Jan 20 2025

Renowned Maltese author and poet Professor Immanuel Mifsud will lead NWAMI International Malta’s first Culture Café of 2025. Themed “Voices of Remembrance: A Tribute to Resilience and Culture”, this Culture Cafe will take place at Ta’ Detta Restaurant on the Valletta Waterfront on Saturday 25 January, starting at 10.30am.

During the event, Prof Mifsud will aim to foster greater reflection and discussion by reciting poems from the landmark anthology Auschwitz Poems as well as on the partisans’ resistance to the Nazis in Central Europe and the devastation of the Yugoslav Wars, drawing from his bilingual volume KM. He will also explore the ongoing Palestinian Israeli conflict, offering poignant reflections on war and its impact on humanity. Prof. Mifsud will also present a poem of hope commissioned by the Commonwealth Education Trust and first read at Westminster Abbey in 2017.

Maria Gabriele Doublesin, President of NWAMI International Malta, explained; “The Culture Café series is at the heart of NWAMI’s mission to foster intercultural dialogue and understanding. This first cafe of the new year, featuring Prof. Mifsud, is a poignant tribute to resilience in the face of conflict and adversity. By exploring themes of remembrance and resistance, we aim to inspire reflection on shared human experiences and the unyielding power of hope.”

Born in 1967, Professor Mifsud has been a multiple winner of both the Malta National Award for Prose and the Malta National Award for Poetry. In 2011 he was also the recipient of the European Union Prize for Literature. With a PhD from the University of Malta where he lectures in contemporary Maltese literature and theatre, Prof Mifsud continues to publish prolifically with his latest novel Filli Ma Tcun Xein, Filli Tithol fl’Esistenza and a book of poetry and art, Váh, launched last October. For more information and to reserve a seat go to https://tinyurl.com/NIM-Culture-Cafe. Places are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

About NWAMI International Malta

NWAMI International Malta (VO/2178) is dedicated to promoting multiculturalism, understanding, and community cohesion through cultural, educational, and artistic initiatives. By fostering dialogue and shared experiences, NWAMI aims to build bridges across diverse communities in Malta. https://nwamiinternational-malta.org

First Palliative Care Facility ‘St. Michael’s Hospice’ Inaugurated

Jan 20 2025

Malta has inaugurated its first palliative care complex, St. Michael’s Hospice, operated by Hospice Malta.

The €9 million project was funded through the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF) and European funds, marking a significant milestone in palliative care services in the country.

The facility is designed to support approximately 1,500 patients and their families, providing holistic and dignified care.

It offers a variety of services, including psychological support and professional training in palliative care. The centre is specifically aimed at those who no longer require hospital care but cannot remain at home.

A serene, accessible garden has also been incorporated to provide patients and their families with a peaceful environment during challenging times.

Prime Minister Robert Abela praised the initiative, calling it a vital service that addresses the needs of many families with empathy and care.

He acknowledged the project’s emphasis on emotional and practical support in a calm, respectful setting for end-of-life care.

The Prime Minister concluded by commending the partnership between the State and the Archdiocese of Malta in making the hospice a reality, wishing Hospice Malta continued success in their work.

On his part, Opposition leader Bernard Grech, also in attendance, said that during the opening he witnessed how:

‘This project will help Hospice Malta provide more comprehensive, holistic, and centralised care to patients facing significant challenges. This new centre, which will house all of Hospice Malta’s operations, will be the first national-scale facility to offer palliative care services to patients and their families.’

During the inauguration of Hospice Malta’s new complex, H.E. President Myriam Spiteri Debono highlighted the outstanding contribution of Hospice Malta in the field of palliative care.

President Spiteri Debono described the project as a testament to the power of collaboration and unity, emphasising that it was achieved through the collective efforts of the Government, the Curia, Hospice Malta, and the public.

In her speech, the President stressed the importance of raising awareness about palliative care, noting that a clear understanding of the field is essential for informed discussions on ethical, medical, and legal matters to be taken seriously and thoughtfully considered.

She expressed her hope that this new complex would play a key role in broadening Hospice Malta’s services, allowing more patients and their families to benefit from its care.

#MaltaDaily