Malta Once Had a King? The Forgotten Royal Chapter Explained

Back in the 1500s, Malta was ruled by Spain, which was one of the most powerful kingdoms in Europe. The Spanish king at the time, Charles V, decided to hand Malta over to the Knights of St John

This was not a gift without conditions. In exchange, the Knights were required to remain loyal to the Crown of Sicily and pay a symbolic annual tribute. That tribute came in the form of a live falcon, presented each year on All Saints’ Day.

Although Malta did not have a resident king living on the island, the King of Sicily held sovereignty over the territory. In 1530, that king was Charles V, who also held the title of Holy Roman Emperor. His rule over Malta was largely symbolic, but legally, he was considered the island’s monarch.

The Knights of St John governed Malta on the king’s behalf. They were responsible for defence, administration, and justice. While they held most of the power locally, they were technically still ruling under the authority of the King of Sicily.

This arrangement continued for over two centuries. However, by the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Malta’s political situation changed. Following the arrival of the British in 1800, Malta’s connection to royal rule through Sicily and Spain came to an end.