19 Malta Facts That Sound Fake… But Are 100% True!
Malta may be tiny, but it’s full of big surprises. Some of its weirdest facts sound totally made up, but guess what? They’re completely real. Get ready to say “No way!” because here are 19 facts about Malta that sound fake… but are actually true!
1. Malta Has No Rivers or Natural Lakes
Unlike most countries, Malta has no permanent rivers or lakes. All fresh water comes from rainfall, reservoirs and desalination.
2. The Temples Are Older Than the Pyramids
Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra were built over 5,500 years ago, making them some of the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world.
3. It Once Rained Fish in Gżira
In 2021, strong winds from a waterspout pulled fish from the sea and scattered them across roads in the town of Gżira. The rare weather event drew international attention.
4. One of the World’s Smallest Countries
Malta is among the ten smallest nations in the world by land area. You can drive from one end of the island to the other in under an hour.
5. Maltese Is the Only Semitic Language in the EU
Maltese, derived from Arabic with strong influences from Italian and English, is the only Semitic language written in the Latin alphabet and officially used in the European Union.
6. There Are More Cars Than Residents
Malta has one of the highest car ownership rates in Europe, with more registered vehicles than people.
7. Home to the Oldest Underground Temple
The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a prehistoric subterranean temple and burial site, was built over 5,000 years ago. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Queen Elizabeth II Lived in Malta
Before ascending the throne, Queen Elizabeth II lived in Malta between 1949 and 1951 while Prince Philip served with the Royal Navy.
9. Traditional “Honey Rings” Have a Curious Nickname
Qagħaq tal-Għasel, or “honey rings,” are a popular Maltese pastry. They were once nicknamed “nun’s chews” due to their sticky texture and monastic origins.
10. A Fireworks Festival Lights Up the Skies Each Year
Malta’s International Fireworks Festival features pyrotechnic displays by local and international teams, celebrating the country’s strong fireworks tradition.
11. Popeye Village Was Built for a Film
The colourful seaside set of the 1980 musical Popeye, starring Robin Williams, still stands today and operates as a tourist attraction.
12. Snow Has Fallen in Malta Just Once
Malta experienced a very light snowfall in 1895. Since then, temperatures have rarely dropped low enough for snow to form.
13. A Railway Once Linked Valletta to Mdina
Between 1883 and 1931, Malta operated a railway line connecting Valletta to Mdina. The service was eventually replaced by buses and private vehicles.
14. The National Dog Is the Pharaoh Hound
Known locally as the Kelb tal-Fenek, this elegant hunting dog is Malta’s national breed and appears on coins and stamps.
15. The Maltese Cross Is Recognised Worldwide
Originally used by the Knights of St John, the eight-pointed Maltese Cross has become an international symbol of courage and service.
16. Malta Was Awarded the George Cross
In 1942, King George VI awarded the George Cross to the entire Maltese population in recognition of their bravery during the Second World War.
17. Donkeys Are Still Used in Gozo
In some rural areas of Gozo, donkeys continue to be used for agricultural work and cultural events, maintaining a connection with traditional ways of life.
18. Filfla Is an Island Without Residents
Filfla, a small rocky island south of Malta, is uninhabited and protected as a nature reserve due to its unique wildlife and geological features.
19. The Sea Around Comino Is Exceptionally Clear
The Blue Lagoon on Comino is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it one of the most photographed swimming spots in the Mediterranean.
#MaltaDaily
