Facts
GeographyThe Maltese archipelago is situated in the middle of the Mediterranean, with the largest inhabited island, Malta, lying 93km (58 miles) south of Sicily and 290km (180 miles) from North Africa. Gozo and Comino are the only other inhabited islands. The landscape of all three is characterised by low hills with terraced fields. Malta has no mountains or rivers. Its coastline is indented with harbours, bays, creeks, sandy beaches and rocky coves. Gozo is connected to Malta by ferry and is more thickly vegetated, with many flat-topped hills and craggy cliffs. Comino, the smallest island, is connected to Malta and Gozo by ferry and is very sparsely populated.
LocationMediterranean, south of Sicily and east of Tunisia. | CurrencyEuro as from 1 January 2008 |
Area316 sq km (122 sq miles). | Coastline252.8 km (including 56 km for the island of Gozo). |
Geographic coordinates:35 50 N, 14 35 E | Population406,583 (2009). |
Population Density1,287 persons sq km. | CapitalValletta. Population: 6,125 (2008). |
EUMember since 2004. | GovernmentRepublic. Gained independence from the UK in 1964. |
Head of StatePresident George Abela since 2009. | Head of GovernmentPrime Minister Lawrence Gonzi since 2004.Valletta. |
Religion98% Roman Catholic. | Inflation rate3.4%(2009) |
Calling code+356 | Internet Code.mt |
GDP (purchasing power parity)$7.411 billion (2008 estimate) | GDP real growth rate4.652% (2008 estimate) |
GDP per capita (PPP)$13,880 (2008 estimate) | Unemployment rate6.4% (2009) |
Electricity240 volts AC, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plug are in use. | TimeGMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from the last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October). |
Recent HistoryLawrence Gonzi took office in March 2004, a few weeks before Malta's entry into the European. The country joined the eurozone on 1 January 2008. | LanguageMaltese (a Semitic language) and English are the official languages. Italian is also widely spoken. |
Social ConventionsThe usual European courtesies are expected, but the visitor should also bear in mind the tremendous importance of Roman Catholicism. If visiting a church, modest dress covering the shoulders and legs will be expected. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in public buildings, including restaurants and cinemas.
SafetyMalta is considered very safe for tourists. Crime is rare, though theft from parked cars and handbag snatching can occur. Local driving conditions are poor so exercise caution.
HealthThere are no health risks attached with travel to Malta, and water and food is safe for consumption. European Union citizens receive emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Maltese nationals on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Visitors should, however, take out adequate medical and travel insurance in case medical evacuation or further treatment is required. Travellers coming from a recognised infected area require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.