The known history of the Maltese islands dates back to the Neolithic period, evident in the remains of megalithic temples from 3,500 BC – the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world and a UNESCO designated world heritage site.
The Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans and Byzantines all left their mark, with St. Paul bringing Christianity to the island after being shipwrecked here in 60 AD. Malta was conquered by the Arabs in 870 AD and later came under the control of Sicily which held it until 1530. From 1530 to 1798 the island was ruled by the Sovereign Military Order of St. John of Jerusalem – the Knights who made Malta a key player in the cultural arena of 17th and 18th century Europe.
In 1798 Napoleon Bonaparte took over Malta for just two years before the British evicted the French at the islanders’ request. The British finally left in 1964 when Malta became independent. It became a Republic ten years later and in 2004 joined the European Union as a member state.
Valletta is rich in history and culture
Malta’s rich cultural legacy is evident in its architecture and museums. Valletta’s streets are lined with elegant old buildings from many different periods, while the nation’s museums are filled with artefacts from the island’s long and illustrious history. The Museum of Archaeology contains a collection of prehistoric artefacts while the National Museum of Fine Arts, housed in an exuberant 16th century Rococo building, exhibits some magnificent art from the early Renaissance through to modern times.
The island’s colourful history is brought to life by attractions such as the Malta Experience audiovisual show and the Great Siege attraction in Valletta. Victorian military re-enactments are held during weekends in Fort Rinella, home to the world's largest cannon, the awe-inspiring 100-ton gun. Earlier re-enactments of the Knights of St John and the Napoleonic era are held at Fort St. Elmo’s War Museum, which also hosts a Sunday military parade in period costumes.
The Visit Malta website provides more information on how Malta’s cultural heritage has been preserved and celebrated.
