Malta
Geography
Malta is an archipelago located in the central Mediterranean, south of the Italian island of Sicily. The country covers an area of approximately 316 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest and most densely populated countries in the world. The archipelago consists of three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino, of which Malta is the largest. The terrain is characterized by low hills with terraced fields. The highest point, Ta' Dmejrek, is only about 253 meters above sea level.
History
The history of Malta is a rich tapestry of influences from various cultures due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean. The islands have been inhabited since around 5900 BC, with the first settlers likely coming from Sicily. The Neolithic period saw the construction of the Ggantija Temples, which are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
The islands were later ruled by the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and Knights of St. John, each leaving their mark on the country's culture and architecture. The Knights of St. John built the capital city, Valletta, in the 16th century. Malta became a British colony in 1814, gaining independence in 1964 and becoming a republic in 1974.
Economy
Malta's economy is considered as a highly industrialized, service-based economy. It is classified as an advanced economy by the International Monetary Fund. The country is a member of the European Union, which it joined in 2004, and the Eurozone. The economy is dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing, and tourism. Malta has a low unemployment rate and a high standard of living.
The country has sought to create a strong knowledge-based economy by promoting higher education and research. The University of Malta and the Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology are the leading institutions for higher education in the country.
Culture
Maltese culture is a blend of influences from the various civilizations that have ruled the islands over the centuries. The official languages are Maltese and English, with Maltese being the only Semitic language written in the Latin script. The country is predominantly Roman Catholic, with the religion playing a significant role in the culture.
Malta is known for its historic sites, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the City of Valletta, the Megalithic Temples, and the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum. The country also has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Malta International Arts Festival and the Malta Jazz Festival.