Hunters Fire Blank Shots From Church Top During Feast

Aug 26 2024

The feast of St. Julian in Malta features a unique tradition, rooted in the saint’s role as the patron of hunters.

During the procession with the titular statue, hunters fire blank rounds from the church rooftop as a salute to the saint.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Malta Daily (@maltadaily.mt)

This tradition, which began in 1983, continues to be a highlight of the feast and is met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd, though the rounds are blank, ensuring safety for everyone present, including locals, tourists, and others who cherish the event.

The activity is organized by the Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FKNK), marking its 39th year. Hunters gather to fire about 20 shots, creating a musketry effect.

This tradition of firing rifles during the feast remains exclusive to St. Julian’s. In other Maltese localities, similar salutes are conducted with 21 mortars or musketry from rooftops, but St. Julian’s maintains its distinctive method of celebration.

#MaltaDaily

Rain Showers Expected This Week

Aug 26 2024

This week’s weather will be a mix of extreme heat and potential showers. Monday and Tuesday are expected to remain hot and sunny, with temperatures soaring up to 38°C. Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions in the high heat, such as staying hydrated and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours.

By midweek, however, the weather pattern will shift. On Wednesday, there is a chance of scattered showers, bringing some relief from the intense heat. Showers are also expected on Thursday, cooling things down slightly as the week progresses.

Heading into the weekend, the weather will turn cloudier and more overcast. While temperatures will drop slightly, they are still expected to hover around 35°C. Though the clouds may bring a break from the direct sunlight, it will remain warm overall.

#MaltaDaily

Maltese-Australians Celebrate St. Helen’s Feast in Melbourne

Aug 26 2024

Hundreds of Australians recently gathered in Victoria, Melbourne, to celebrate the Feast of St. Helen, an event traditionally held in Birkirkara, Malta.

This lively celebration was organized by the St. Helena Maltese/Australia Social Club, a community group dedicated to honoring Birkirkara’s patron saint.

The club is composed of former Maltese expats and Australians with Maltese heritage, who maintain a deep connection to their cultural roots.

The St. Helena Maltese/Australia Social Club is just one of many Maltese organizations thriving in Victoria, Melbourne. These groups, including the Australian Nadur Association, Maltese La Vallette Association, and Stella Maris Maltese Association, provide a sense of community and cultural continuity for Maltese Australians.

The St. Helena Maltese/Australia Social Club, in particular, has garnered significant support, boasting an impressive 1,800 followers on Facebook. This strong online presence underscores the enduring love and dedication these individuals feel not only for Birkirkara and its patron saint, St. Helen, but for Malta as a whole.

#MaltaDaily

Two Maltese Seriously Injured In Sicily Traffic Incident

Aug 26 2024

According to Italian media reports, two Maltese tourists have sustained serious injuries in a traffic accident which took place on state highway 115 between Ragusa and Modica.

The accident involved two Maltese tourists riding a motorcycle and a car driven by a 57 year old man from Modica.

The details of the incident are still being worked out, with the accident reportedly taking place at around 1700hrs on Sunday 25th August.

The Maltese were reportedly transported to Ospedale Giovanni Paolo. The driver of the car is also being treated for light injuries.

#MaltaDaily