How Malta’s Streets, Villages and Laws Still Reflect British Rule

How Malta’s Streets, Villages and Laws Still Reflect British Rule

Did you know Malta used to be part of the British Empire? It might be sunny and Mediterranean, but in some ways, Malta still feels a bit British today!

The British ruled Malta from 1814 until 1964, which is 150 years. That is a long time, and they left behind lots of things that are still easy to spot.

Let’s start with the streets. In Malta, cars drive on the left side, just like in the UK. The road signs, red phone boxes and even some letterboxes look just like British ones. You might even see a few street names like “King George V Street”.

In the villages, you will find English used everywhere — on shop signs, menus and even school books. That is because English is one of Malta’s two official languages, along with Maltese. Most people speak both.

And what about the law? Malta’s legal system still follows British-style rules and courts. Even the police uniforms look a bit like the ones in old British films.

Fun fact: Malta is still part of the Commonwealth, a group of countries that used to be part of the British Empire. The Queen even visited Malta several times and once called it her “second home”.

So next time you visit Malta, look around. From road signs to red phone boxes, you might just feel a little bit like you are in a mini version of Britain — but with more sunshine and pastizzi!

#MaltaDaily