You’ve Lived in Malta Your Whole Life and Still Don’t Know These 12 Things

Hold on to your pastizzis, because even if you’ve lived in Malta forever, there’s a good chance you’ve missed a few fun facts about our sunny little island! Here are 12 things that might surprise even the most hardcore Maltese locals.

1. Malta Has No Forests

That’s right! Malta is one of the few countries in the world with no real forests. There are trees, sure – but no proper woodland.

2. The World’s Oldest Free-Standing Temples Are Here

Think the Pyramids are old? Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples are older – by over 1,000 years! They’ve been standing since before 3,000 BC.

3. There’s a Man-Made Cave in Valletta with a Secret History

Lascaris War Rooms were dug into the rock under Valletta and used during World War II. Spies, secret messages, and war plans all happened there!

4. Malta Had No King or Queen – But It Was a British Colony

We use red phone boxes and speak English because Malta was part of the British Empire from 1814 to 1964.

5. Popeye Village Was Built for a Movie

Yes, the colourful cartoon-like village in Mellieħa was actually a film set for the 1980 movie Popeye, starring Robin Williams!

6. Malta Has No Rivers

We’ve got the sea all around us, but no rivers or lakes in the middle. All our water comes from rain or desalinated seawater.

7. Maltese is a Mix of Arabic, Italian, and English

The Maltese language has a fascinating mix of words. Ever wondered why some words sound Arabic and others sound Italian? Now you know.

8. You Can Find Fossils at Għar Dalam

This cool cave in the south has bones and fossils from ancient animals like dwarf elephants and hippos. Yes, hippos!

9. The Maltese Cross Has 8 Points for a Reason

Each point stands for a value like loyalty, honesty and courage. It’s not just a fancy shape – it has deep meaning for the Knights of St John.

10. Mdina Was Once Malta’s Capital

Before Valletta, there was Mdina: the Silent City. It was the capital back when knights rode horses instead of scooters.

11. Malta Has Its Own Volcanic Rock: Globigerina Limestone

Most Maltese buildings are made from this golden stone. It’s soft when first cut but gets harder over time.

12. You Can See the Milky Way at Dwejra

On a clear night with no light pollution, the sky above Dwejra is perfect for stargazing. Bring snacks and make a wish on a shooting star!

So there you have it, 12 surprising things about Malta you might not have known. How many did you get? Be honest!

#MaltaDaily