Why We Drive on the Left in Malta

If you have ever visited Malta, you might have noticed something strange. Cars are driving on the left side of the road! For tourists from most countries, this can be very confusing. So, why do Maltese drivers stay on the left?

The answer takes us back in time, all the way to when Britain ruled Malta.

From 1814 to 1964, Malta was part of the British Empire. And in Britain, people have always driven on the left. So when the British brought their roads, cars and traffic rules to Malta, the island followed their system. Even after Malta became independent in 1964, the left-side driving stayed.

But believe it or not, driving on the left is not that weird! Around a third of the world still does it. Countries like Australia, Japan, India and South Africa all drive on the left too. So Malta is in good company!

There’s also a fun history fact: hundreds of years ago, knights and warriors rode their horses on the left side of the roadso they could hold their swords in their right hand to defend themselves. So in a way, left-side travel is kind of… knightly!

So next time you cross the road in Malta or hop in a car, remember: left is right, and right is wrong – at least here!

#MaltaDaily