These islands, bathed in sunshine and gentle breezes year-round, are the ideal destination for travelers seeking to escape the harsh winters of Europe or the hustle and bustle of large cities.
A view of the capital city of Valletta overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
The "Pearl" of the Mediterranean
The Republic of Malta is an archipelago consisting of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. This smallest country in Europe is named after its largest island: Malta. The entire archipelago covers only 316 square kilometers, yet it has the highest population density in Europe. Due to its strategically important location, Malta has been repeatedly occupied by foreign powers throughout its history. It was not until 1974 that Malta gained independence from Britain and became a republic.
At the heart of Malta is the capital city of Valletta – covering only 0.8 km², making it the smallest capital city in the European Union, yet it was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.
Founded around 1500, Valletta remains the cultural center of Malta to this day, thanks to its preserved large number of historical monuments such as fortified walls, strongholds, palaces, Baroque churches, and a dense collection of 320 statues spread across 55 hectares.
Valletta is deeply rooted in Maltese culture, which dates back nearly 7,000 years. Therefore, Valletta is also known as Superissima, which in Latin means "most proud."
Life flows peacefully through the old streets of the capital city of Valletta.
In 2018, Malta was voted one of the world's most attractive travel destinations by the renowned travel magazine Conde Nast Travellers. Not only is it nổi prominent for its historical sites, architectural structures, and ancient culture, Malta is also known as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean" because nature has bestowed upon this country characteristic of Mediterranean cobalt blue beaches and coves and bays along the coast that create beautiful harbors.
Malta boasts one of the longest summers in the world, lasting up to eight months (from April to November), and the highest number of sunshine hours in Europe: over 3,000 hours per year. Therefore, it's a top destination for those wanting to escape the harsh cold of European winters, spend long days sunbathing, and enjoy a slower pace of life on the beaches. This is why Malta is such an attractive tourist destination. Tourism contributes approximately 25% of the island nation's GDP annually.
One country, three islands
Besides Malta, visitors should also take time to visit two other islands: Gozo and Comino. It's said that when in Malta, one must slow down because there are no modern transportation options like subways or high-speed trains. The most common forms of public transport are buses, express ferries, or the dghajsa – traditional rowboats that are always bustling in and out of the harbors.
In Malta, all routes start from the Valletta bus terminal located just south of the City Gate, while in Gozo, routes start from the center of Victoria town. Buses run approximately every ten minutes, and often continue until late at night. Therefore, tourists can confidently choose this mode of transport at any time. Malta has a very modern and convenient bus system that covers the entire island.
Gozo is a smaller and less populated island than Malta. It's only about a 45-minute drive northwest to Gozo's Mgarr pier, where you can rent scooters, electric bikes, and cars to explore on your own. Explore Il-Kastell, a defensive fortress that protected the people of Gozo from Turkish attacks in the 16th century, now a complex of archaeological museums. Afterwards, experience the cuisine and wine at Ta' Mena Estate, a farm located a few miles north of Victoria. This farm is famous for its wines made from Girgentina and Gellewza grapes grown on the island, along with other local produce such as olive oil, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes.
After a delicious meal, visitors should continue their stroll along the Gozo coastline, following trails leading to the tops of cliffs to take in the bays and coastal caves formed by wind and sea erosion. From here, visitors can hike, cycle, or kayak, exploring the jagged coastline of Comino – Malta's third largest island.
Located between Malta and Gozo, Comino is known as the "Blue Lagoon." Here, you'll find pristine turquoise beaches where you can see the seabed, and shallow areas surrounded by large rock formations creating unique natural pools. Visitors can relax in the cool, clear water or spend hours sunbathing. You can also participate in water sports such as snorkeling, surfing, or paragliding.
Blue Lagoon is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Maltese archipelago. Here, visitors can completely escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world, disappear from social media, and enjoy a peaceful life...
Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/song-cham-o-malta-671222.html
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