Verified Facts
Quick Facts
Location & Borders
Malta is an island nation located in the central Mediterranean Sea, approximately 80 kilometers south of Sicily, Italy. The country is situated between the European and African continents, with the island of Sicily to the north, the Italian island of Pantelleria to the west, and the North African country of Tunisia to the south. Malta's strategic location has made it a crucial hub for trade and cultural exchange throughout history. The country is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, with the Malta Channel separating the islands from Sicily.
Malta shares maritime borders with Italy and Tunisia, and its proximity to these countries has had a significant impact on its culture, language, and history. The country's location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East has made it a melting pot of different cultures, with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, Knights of St. John, and British, among others. Malta's unique blend of cultures is reflected in its language, architecture, and cuisine, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.
Terrain & Landscape
Malta's terrain is characterized by a mix of limestone plateaus, valleys, and coastal cliffs. The island's landscape is generally flat, with no mountains or high peaks, but it features a number of hills and ridges that run along the eastern and western coasts. The highest point on the island is Ta' Dmejrek, which stands at 253 meters above sea level. The landscape is also dotted with numerous caves, grottos, and rock formations, which have been shaped by millions of years of erosion.
Malta's coastline is approximately 197 kilometers long, with a mix of sandy beaches, pebbly coves, and rocky shores. The island's Blue Lagoon, located on the island of Comino, is a popular tourist destination, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beach. The Grand Harbour, located in the capital city of Valletta, is another notable feature of Malta's landscape, with its picturesque marina and fortifications. Malta's terrain and landscape have been shaped by its geological history, with the island's limestone and dolomite rocks providing a unique and fascinating backdrop for visitors to explore.
The island's valleys and low-lying areas are often used for agriculture, with crops such as wheat, barley, and potatoes being grown in the fertile soil. The coastal areas are also home to a number of salt pans, where sea salt is harvested from the shallow pools of seawater. Malta's unique landscape and geography have made it an attractive location for filmmakers, with the island's natural scenery and historic architecture providing a picturesque backdrop for movies and television shows.
Climate By Season
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | December to February | 12-15°C | 80-100 mm | Mild, wet |
| Spring | March to May | 15-20°C | 30-50 mm | Mild, sunny |
| Summer | June to August | 25-30°C | 0-10 mm | Hot, dry |
| Autumn | September to November | 20-25°C | 50-80 mm | Warm, sunny |
Best Time To Visit
Best months: May and September. Why: These months offer pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and exploring the island's historic sites. Avoid: July and August, as these months can be very hot and crowded, with temperatures often reaching 30°C or more.
Natural Highlights
- The Blue Lagoon, a picturesque bay with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beach, located on the island of Comino.
- The Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, dating back to around 3600 BC.
- The Mnajdra Temples, a complex of ancient temples located on the southern coast of Malta, known for their unique architecture and stunning coastal views.
- The Blue Grotto, a series of six caves on the southern coast of Malta, known for their vibrant blue waters and stunning rock formations.
- The Dwejra Bay, a scenic bay on the island of Gozo, known for its unique rock formations and stunning coastal views.
- The Popeye Village, a former film set turned tourist attraction, located on the northern coast of Malta, featuring a collection of colorful houses and buildings.