Urban Isle Blog

5 things to do in Sliema

Did you know that Malta, a small archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. In this blog, we will delve into some intriguing and lesser-known facts about this captivating destination. 1. Ancient Megalithic Temples: Malta is home to some of the oldest freestanding structures in the world. The megalithic temples of Malta, such as Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, date back to 3600-2500 BC, making them older than the Egyptian pyramids. 2. The Knights of Malta: The Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Knights of Malta, played a significant role in Malta's history. They established a stronghold on the island in the 16th century and left behind a legacy of impressive architecture, including the magnificent St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta. 3. The Azure Window: For fans of Game of Thrones, Malta might look familiar. The iconic Azure Window, a natural limestone arch on the island of Gozo, served as a filming location for the popular TV series. Unfortunately, the arch collapsed in 2017, but its beauty lives on in the memories of those who visited. 4. The Maltese Language: Maltese is the only Semitic language written in Latin script. It has influences from Arabic, Italian, and English, reflecting the island's diverse history and cultural heritage. 5. The Blue Grotto: Nature lovers will be enchanted by the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves on the southern coast of Malta. The caves are renowned for their stunning blue waters, which are best explored by boat. 6. Festivals and Celebrations: Malta is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. The most famous of these is the Malta International Fireworks Festival, where pyrotechnic displays light up the night sky in a dazzling spectacle. Conclusion: Malta is a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From ancient temples to picturesque landscapes, this Mediterranean gem offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. Exploring the fascinating facts about Malta only scratches the surface of what this remarkable destination has to offer. Remember to plan your visit to Malta and immerse yourself in its captivating charm.

As the air becomes crisp and the streets are adorned with twinkling lights, Malta transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. The Maltese archipelago, located in the heart of the Mediterranean, embraces this festive time with a unique blend of traditions, religious celebrations, and the warm hospitality for which the Maltese are renowned. Religious Celebrations: Malta, with its deep Catholic roots, celebrates Christmas with a strong focus on religious traditions. The Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve is a highlight for many locals and visitors alike. Churches across the islands, from the grand St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta to the quaint village churches, come alive with the melodious sounds of Christmas hymns and the enchanting glow of candlelight. The annual procession of the Baby Jesus through the streets of local villages is another cherished tradition, symbolizing the birth of Christ. Locals gather to witness this spectacle, adding to the sense of community and shared joy during the festive season. Nativity Scenes (Presepju): Nativity scenes hold a special place in Maltese Christmas traditions. Known as "Presepju," these displays go beyond the traditional representation of the Nativity scene, often incorporating local elements that reflect the Maltese way of life. Intricately crafted figures populate these scenes, set against a backdrop that captures the essence of Malta's architecture and landscapes. Many Maltese households proudly create their own nativity scenes, showcasing creativity and attention to detail. In villages and towns, larger displays are often erected in public spaces, drawing crowds to admire the craftsmanship and artistry involved. Festive Markets and Street Decorations: The streets of Maltese towns and cities come alive with vibrant decorations and Christmas lights. Valletta, with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed architecture, takes on a magical ambiance as buildings are illuminated with festive colours. The Christmas markets that pop up in various locations offer an array of local crafts, traditional food and sweets, and seasonal treats. Visitors can explore these markets to find unique Maltese gifts while enjoying the jovial atmosphere. Traditional Maltese Christmas Cuisine: No Christmas celebration in Malta is complete without indulging in traditional Maltese delicacies. Honey rings, known as "Qagħaq tal-Għasel," and sweet nougat, or "Qubbajt," are Christmas staples. Families gather to prepare and share these treats, along with a variety of savory dishes that form part of the Christmas feast. A special mention goes to the Maltese Christmas Log, a delicious pastry filled with nuts, figs, and dates. This dessert, often enjoyed with a cup of strong Maltese coffee, adds a sweet touch to the holiday celebrations. So as you can see, Christmas in Malta is a time of joy, unity, and the celebration of both religious and cultural traditions. As the islands embrace the festive spirit, visitors are welcomed with open arms to experience the unique charm of a Maltese Christmas. Whether you find yourself attending Midnight Mass in a historic cathedral, wandering through festive markets, or savouring the rich flavours of traditional Maltese cuisine, Christmas in Malta is an enchanting blend of warmth, tradition, and Mediterranean hospitality.

Malta, with its stunning landscapes, historical architecture, and Mediterranean charm, has served as a captivating backdrop for numerous blockbuster movies. In this blog, we will take a cinematic journey through some of the famous movies filmed on the Maltese Islands. 1. Gladiator (2000): Ridley Scott's epic historical drama, Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe, utilized Malta's ancient city of Mdina as the setting for several key scenes. The atmospheric streets and grand architecture of Mdina provided the perfect backdrop for the film's ancient Roman setting. 2. Troy (2004): Another historical epic, Troy, directed by Wolfgang Petersen and featuring Brad Pitt, was partially filmed in Malta. The island's rugged landscapes and historic forts, such as Fort Ricasoli and Fort St. Elmo, stood in for ancient Troy, adding authenticity and grandeur to the film. 3. Game of Thrones (2011-2019): The immensely popular TV series, Game of Thrones, chose Malta as one of its filming locations for the first season. The iconic Azure Window in Gozo served as the backdrop for Daenerys Targaryen's wedding to Khal Drogo, creating a visually stunning scene. 4. World War Z (2013): Malta's capital city, Valletta, became a post-apocalyptic setting for the zombie thriller, World War Z, starring Brad Pitt. The city's historic streets and fortifications were transformed into a chaotic battleground, showcasing Malta's versatility as a filming location. 5. The Count of Monte Cristo (2002): This swashbuckling adventure film, based on Alexandre Dumas' classic novel, utilized various locations in Malta, including Fort St. Elmo and the coastal town of Vittoriosa. The island's historic charm and coastal beauty added depth to the film's period setting. 6. Jurassic Park Dominion (2022): Taking place four years after Isla Nublar has been destroyed, dinosaurs now coexist among human beings, where Dominion depicts the struggle of maintaining the fragile balance between the two apex predators: humans and dinosaurs. In the movie, Malta's famous St. George's Square is overrun with dinosaurs, chasing actors Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard through the cobbled corners of Valletta, in one last battle between man and beast. 7. Assassin's Creed (2016): A great majority of the combat scenes in this block buster movie were shot around Malta, Valletta specifically adding authenticity to the movie and capturing the essence of the battleground of the assassins. 8. Midnight Express (1978): The 'Midnight Express' story is actually set in Turkey, however back in those days, the filmmakers were not granted permission to film there. The team, therefore, chose the Maltese islands due to their aesthetic similarity to Turkey. 9. Popeye (1980): The 1980 classic film production of Popeye, starring Robin Williams, was not just filmed in Malta. Actually, a whole film set was built specifically for the movie, which is now an attraction called Popeye Village, in the aptly-named Anchor Bay . The village has been repurposed into an amusement park, full of brightly coloured houses featured in the film! A great spot for a family-fun day, and to introduce your kids to how movies were made before CGI and green screens! 10. Captain Phillips (2013): Directed by Paul Greengrass and starring Tom Hanks and Barkhad Abdi, Captain Phillips was shot in Malta’s harbours; the Grand Harbour in Senglea, and the Freeport Terminals in Birzebuggia and Marsaxlokk, to be exact. The award-winning film was just one of many that found Malta’s ancient harbours to be the perfect setting for a sea-based movie! Malta's picturesque landscapes, ancient architecture, and rich history have attracted numerous filmmakers over the years. From epic historical dramas to fantasy series, the Maltese Islands have provided a stunning backdrop for some of the loads of famous movies and TV shows. Exploring the cinematic history of Malta adds another layer of appreciation for this enchanting Mediterranean destination. Whether you're a film enthusiast or simply intrigued by the magic of the silver screen, a visit to Malta allows you to walk in the footsteps of your favorite movie characters and experience the allure of these iconic filming locations firsthand. Lights, camera, Malta!

Malta, a small Mediterranean archipelago, is a treasure trove of history and culture. From ancient temples to medieval fortresses, the island is home to numerous historical sites that offer a glimpse into its fascinating past. In this blog, we will explore the top 5 historical places in Malta that every history enthusiast should visit. 1. The Megalithic Temples of Malta: Dating back to 3600-2500 BC, the Megalithic Temples of Malta are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world. These UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, showcase the advanced architectural skills of Malta's prehistoric inhabitants. 2. Valletta - The Fortress City: Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a living testament to the island's rich history. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, this fortified city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its narrow streets, visit St. John's Co-Cathedral, and admire the Grandmaster's Palace to immerse yourself in Malta's medieval past. 3. The Ġgantija Temples: Located on the island of Gozo, the Ġgantija Temples are another remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site. These Neolithic temples, constructed around 3600-3200 BC, are older than the Egyptian pyramids. Marvel at the massive stone structures and learn about the religious practices of Malta's earliest inhabitants. 4. Mdina - The Silent City: Step back in time as you enter the fortified city of Mdina. Known as the Silent City, Mdina's narrow streets, medieval architecture, and stunning views make it a must-visit historical site. Explore St. Paul's Cathedral, walk along the fortified walls, and soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting ancient city. 5. The Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni: The Hypogeum, a unique underground temple complex, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true archaeological gem. Dating back to around 3000 BC, this subterranean structure offers a glimpse into Malta's prehistoric burial rituals. Due to its delicate nature, access to the Hypogeum is limited, so make sure to book your visit in advance. Malta's historical places offer a captivating journey through time. From ancient temples to medieval cities, each site tells a story of the island's rich and diverse past. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the world's heritage, exploring these top 5 historical places in Malta will leave you with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable Mediterranean gem.

If you're planning a trip to Malta and want to make the most of your time there, here's a perfect itinerary for a perfect day on this lovely island: 9:00am - Start your day with Urban Isle’s amazing English and Continental breakfast. 10:00am - Head to the historic city of Mdina, known as the "Silent City." Wander through the narrow streets and admire the stunning Baroque architecture, including St. Paul's Cathedral and the Palazzo Falson Historic House Museum. 12:00pm - Take a short drive to the Dingli Cliffs, which offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. You can also visit the nearby Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, which dates back to the 17th century. 1:00pm - Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant in the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Try some fresh seafood and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. 3:00pm - Visit the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves and rock formations that are famous for their stunning blue waters. You can take a boat tour to explore the caves and see the colourful fish and marine life. 5:00pm - Head to Valletta and visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offer panoramic views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities. You can also watch the firing of the Saluting Battery, a traditional ceremony that takes place daily. 7:00pm - Enjoy dinner in Żebbuġ at Tax-Xiħa, one of the top local restaurants in Malta. Here you can try some traditional Maltese specialities, enjoy amazing fish and meat dishes or simply go for one of their unique mouth watering pizzas. 9:00pm - Finish your day with a drink at one of the many trendy bars or rooftop lounges in Sliema, Gzira or St Julians... Malta’s nightlife capital. With this itinerary, you'll be able to experience the best of Malta in just one day. Of course, there's so much more to see and do on our lovely island, so if you have more time, be sure to explore further and discover all that this beautiful nation has to offer.

Caravaggio's painting, "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist," is one of the most famous works of art in Malta. Here are some interesting facts about this painting: Caravaggio painted the piece in 1608 while living in Malta. The painting is housed in the Oratory of St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta. It is the only painting by Caravaggio that he ever signed, using the blood from St. John's decapitated neck. The painting is considered a masterpiece of Baroque art, known for its dramatic use of light and dark, and its intense emotional impact. The painting was commissioned by the Knights of Malta, who were the ruling power in Malta at the time. Caravaggio's painting has a fascinating history and continues to captivate art lovers today. If you're planning a trip to Malta, be sure to visit the Oratory of St. John's Co-Cathedral to see this incredible work of art in person.