Malta’s oldest woman, Maria Farrugia, has just celebrated her 110th birthday and local project ‘The People of Malta’ outlined some of the remarkable woman’s achievements and characteristics.
Maria hails from Ħamrun, and was born back in 7th March of the year 1912. She was described as having a simple life, having experienced a plethora of historical events throughout Malta’s recent history.
Maria’s own mother lived to the age of 100, and she was one of five siblings. The elder recalled how she lost one of her siblings who died at the age of 37 when he was killed by a bomb during one of Malta’s very first air raids.
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Maria was widowed in 1962, and became the mother of three children, two of whom have already passed away. She is now cared for by her daughter Carmen and her grandson Stephen.
Maria took on sewing as a hobby but also to make some money for the family. She was described as taking the time to do everything, from selling milk with the family goat to playing bingo.
‘She lives day by day’ Carmen told The People of Malta. ‘If it was up to her she would help everyone. But we are careful – it is understandable that we are cautious. But we do sometimes ask her to help us fold some clothes.’
Maria has already lived through a similar situation as the COVID-19 pandemic as the Spanish Flu hit when she was younger. Maria still describes life when she was younger as being better, often recalling memories and other anecdotes she’s been through.
As for a nugget of wisdom, Maria told The People of Malta that ‘life is in God’s hands. There are no secrets.’ Happy birthday Maria!
#MaltaDaily
Photo Source: The People of Malta
