Blood, Bread and Festivals : Quirky Traditions of Old Malta

Malta’s history is rich with unique customs that combined food, faith and celebration. Some may seem unusual today, yet they reveal how earlier generations lived, worked and expressed their culture.

The Bakers of Qormi

The town of Qormi became famous during the time of the Knights of St John for its bread-making. Traditional wood-fired ovens produced the distinctive Maltese loaf, and this reputation is celebrated today in events such as Lejl f’Casal Fornaro (A Night in the Bakers’ Town), which highlights Qormi’s heritage as Malta’s “Bakers’ Town.”

Lenten Fare with a Twist

During the fasting season of Lent, people in Malta once prepared a special flatbread known as ftajjar. These unleavened loaves were sometimes filled with white pudding made from animal blood, a food that reflected older culinary practices. Though unusual by modern tastes, this dish formed part of the island’s religious and seasonal traditions.

The Mnarja Festival

One of Malta’s oldest celebrations is Mnarja, held on 29 June in honour of Saints Peter and Paul. Historically, it was the only day of the year when hunting rabbits was permitted, leading to large gatherings where rabbit stew became the traditional dish. Music, dancing and agricultural shows also played an important role, making it both a religious and cultural event.

Carnival Traditions

Malta’s Carnival, which takes place in the week before Lent, has been celebrated for centuries. Colourful costumes, masked dances and elaborate floats remain central to the festivities. Originating under the Knights of St John, Carnival blended European influences with local creativity and continues to be one of the island’s most vibrant cultural events.

Bread and Superstition

Bread also featured in folk beliefs. In some villages, if heavy rain threatened crops, it was customary to throw a piece of bread onto the road as a symbolic act to protect the harvest. While such practices may seem curious today, they highlight the importance of food security and faith in everyday life.

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Photo Source: Lejl f’Casal Fornaro FB