Malta Was Invaded More Than 20 Times – Here’s Why Everyone Wanted It

MALTA – This tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea might be small, but it has one massive claim to fame. It has been invaded more than 20 times throughout history! So, what’s the deal? Why did so many people want this sun-soaked speck of land?

Let’s take a trip back in time. Malta sits right in the middle of a super important sea route that connects Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. If you controlled Malta, you could control ships sailing across the sea. That made it a treasure for every empire and army sailing nearby!

First came the Phoenicians, who were great sailors. Then the Romans took over. After that, the Arabs, the Normans, the French (yes, Napoleon himself!), and even the British ruled Malta at different times. It was like the world’s most popular seaside property!

One of the most famous attacks happened in 1565 during the Great Siege of Malta. The Ottoman Empire sent thousands of soldiers to take the island, but the Knights of St John fought them off in one of the most epic battles in history.

Even during World War II, Malta was bombed heavily because it was such a key base. The people were so brave that King George VI gave the entire island the George Cross for heroism!

So, why did everyone want Malta? Simple. It was the perfect place to keep an eye on your enemies, stop their ships, and rule the sea. Not bad for a tiny island with big history!

#MaltaDaily