About Malta
The Republic of Malta consists of Malta, Gozo, Comino and two small uninhabited islands, and is situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Malta is 93km away from Sicily and 290km from North Africa.
Malta has an area of 248 sq.km and is made up of a law plateau which descends gradually to the plain in the south-eastem part of the Island. G0z0, Malta’s sister island (87 sq.km), lies just 6.4km to the north-west. The longest distance across Malta is 27km, and the widest is 14km. The corresponding figures for Gozo are 14am and 7km respectively. Malta has no mountains – a series of terraced fields on hilly slopes characterizes the Islands. Malta’s coastline is well indented with natural harbours, sandy beaches and flat rock coves.
Throughout Malta’s long and chequered history. Malta’s people came into contact with the many nations that dominated the Mediterranean. These relationships with people of so many different cultures made the Maltese amongst the most cosmopolitan people in the world. The people of Malta have developed and maintained characteristics which distinguish them as a peace-loving nation with a strong sense of hospitality. Another characteristic is their joviality which springs mainly from the agreeable, warm climate with sunshine throughout the year. For the same reason, the Maltese enjoy very high standards of health.
Today the Maltese population stands at 378,000.
The national language is the Maltese language, however, both Maltese and English are official languages, and English is also spoken and understood by most. Malta became a full member of the European Union on 1st May 2004.
Other details about Malta could be find on the following links:-
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20110914/local/Malta-is-safest-place-on-earth-.384605
