The main island of Malta is the largest and most developed island. The island of Gozo is idyllic and peaceful and mostly rural, offering breathtaking views and great opportunities for outdoor activities, such has hiking, biking and rock climbing. Comino is the smallest island of the three and is inhabited by only a few people. The island hosts a hotel renowned for its hospitality and facilities to spend relaxing holidays in Malta and is the location for one of Malta’s most beautiful beaches: the Blue Lagoon.
The size of the population of Malta is roughly 400,000 and its geographical size is limited to around 316 sq km. Considering both figures, Malta is ranked highly on the list of most dense populations in the world. The dominant religion is Roman Catholicism, followed by around 98% of the population, although in recent years a significant decline in mass attendance has been noted, mostly among young followers.
The Maltese are a proud people, with a unique Mediterranean culture which was also shaped by foreign cultures during several ages of occupancy. Many falsely believe Maltese culture as being a melting pot of cultures introduced by foreign empires, however, foreign influences merely moulded a collection of age-old traditions, customs and values passed on to successive generations.
Malta has a rich history, as a result of numerous foreign rulers who greatly valued the strategic geographical location the islands offered for trade and warfare. Malta is home to the oldest freestanding structure in the world: The oldest of all megalithic temples is il-Ggantija in Gozo, dating back to 3500 BC.
Malta is one of the latest additions to the European Union (member since May 2004) and is developing in a number of areas, improving the quality of life for its citizens as well as offering tourists a better holiday experience. The island’s economy is largely dependent on tourism, but the island’s accession to the EU has given many industrial areas an array of opportunities. Recently investments were secured by the Maltese government for the establishment of an IT hub, SmartCity, modelled after Internet City, located in Dubai. Malta is set to be developed into an IT centre that will offer various business opportunities and is expected to boost Malta’s frail economy.
