Maltese culture — mix of Phoenician, Roman, Arab, Norman, Maltese, British influences. Unique Semitic language, Knights fortifications.
Language and Literature
Maltese — only Semitic language in EU, written in Latin alphabet. From Arabic (Sicilian) with Italian and English influences. Maltese is also official EU language.
Architecture
Megalithic temples Ġgantija (UNESCO 3600 BC) — world oldest freestanding structures. Valletta UNESCO — whole city planned by Knights of Malta (1566). Mdina — ancient fortified city.
Music
Maltese festivals — every day patron saint feast in some village. Brass bands. Għana — traditional cantata. Modern music — Eurovision (Ira Losco, Destiny). Malta Philharmonic Orchestra.
Knights of Malta
1530-1798 — Order of Malta governed island. Built Valletta, Great Siege 1565. Maltese cross with 8 arms = national symbol.
Cuisine
Pastizzi (savoury pastry) — national snack. Lampuki (mahi-mahi) — popular fish. Gozo ftira — traditional bread. Aljotta, fenkata. Sicilian and Arab influences in food.
Traditions
Carnival (February/March) — with masks and floats. Religious patron saint feasts in every village. Lampuki — fishing season September-November. Traditional games at feasts.
Modern Culture
Cinema — popular country for filming (Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Troy). Eurovision music — Destiny, Ira Losco. Gaming industry started — Malta European gaming hub.