Malta

Europe
Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy).

35 50 N, 14 35 E

President George Abela	Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi

 
Capital
Valletta

Government
Parliamentary Republic

Religion
Roman Catholic 98% others 2%.

Population
412,966

Ethnic group
Maltese 95.3%, British 1.6%, other 3.1%.
 
National Language                   
Maltese
          
National Day
21 September 1964 (from the UK)

Anthem
L-Innu Malti ("The Maltese Hymn")

Currency
Euro (€)

Attractions
Hagar Qim,  Mdina,  Valletta,  Victoria in Gozo 

Website        

Art & Cultural

The ICON

Hagar Qim     Ħaġar Qim (Standing/Worshiping Stones) is a megalithic temple complex found on the Mediterranean island of Malta, dating from the Ġgantija phase (3600-3200 BC). The Megalithic Temples of Malta are amongst the most ancient religious sites on Earth, described by the World Heritage Sites committee as "unique architectural masterpieces." In 1992 UNESCO recognized Ħaġar Qim and four other Maltese megalithic structures as World Heritage Sites. Ħaġar Qim's builders used globigerina limestone in the temple's construction. As a result of this, the temple has suffered from severe weathering and surface flaking over the millennia. In 2009 work was completed on a protective tent.

Meghalitic Temples