Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About: Lija!

Time to dive into the fabulous world of Lija, a tiny village in Malta that has big stories, bright gardens and fireworks that light up the night sky!

A Small Village with a Juicy Motto

Lija is one of Malta’s famed “Three Villages,” alongside Attard and Balzan. It lies right in the heart of Malta and is known for its fragrant citrus gardens. Its motto, “Suavi Fructu Rubeo” means “with tasty fruit I blossom”,and that says it all!A Tower You Can Spot from Anywhere

In 1857, a fun and fancy round tower called the Lija Belvedere Tower was built in a garden just for showing off views. Now it stands in a roundabout and is still one of Lija’s coolest landmarks!

The Grand Baroque Parish Church

Lija’s own Parish Church of Our Saviour is a magnificent baroque church, finished in 1782. Inside, you’ll find dazzling paintings, including the Transfiguration of Jesus by the master Mattia Preti and artworks by other famous artists!

Sparkling Fireworks Everyone Will Love

Every year in the first week of August, Lija’s village festa bursts into life with legendary fireworks! In fact, the Lija fireworks team once won a competition in Monaco. That’s how awesome they are!

Big Houses with Important History

Talking of fancy homes, Villa Francia is a grand palace built around 1757, now serving as the Prime Minister’s residence. And there’s Villa Parisio, an older mansion from the 1500s with lovely gardens and orange trees, now home to a foundation started by an important Maltese family.

Football Fun for All

Lija is also home to Lija Athletic F.C., a football club founded in 1949. They’ve played in Malta’s top football division and even celebrated their 75th anniversary recently—despite facing a tough season. Their spirit is as grand as the village itself!

#MaltaDaily