15 Facts About Malta Most People Get Wrong
Malta is home to 520K people across 316 km², making it one of the most sparsely populated countries on the planet. It ranks 1st in the world for Smallest EU Capital.
Below are 15 facts about Malta, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Malta
A complete overview of Malta's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Valletta is the smallest capital city in the European Union.
Malta has the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites per square km.
The Maltese language is the only Semitic language written in the Latin alphabet.
Malta was awarded the George Cross by Britain for its heroic resistance in WWII.
Malta is located in Southern Europe, Europe, with its capital city in Valletta.
The population of Malta is approximately 520K, spread across 316 km² of territory.
Malta has a population density of 1,645/km²: one of the most sparsely populated countries on Earth.
Malta has a coastline of 253 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Malta is an island nation with no land borders, surrounded entirely by water.
The official languages of Malta are Maltese / English, making it straightforward for international visitors to communicate.
Malta uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
Malta gained independence in 1964, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Southern Europe.
The total GDP of Malta is $18.7B, with a GDP per capita of $35,962, classifying it as a high-income economy.
Malta has a mediterranean, hot dry summers, mild winters climate, with the best time to visit being May–October.
Malta is considered a Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $8–16.
Malta contains the world's oldest freestanding stone structures, the Ġgantija temples, built around 3,600 BC, are 1,000 years older than Stonehenge. This tiny island has more history per square kilometre than almost anywhere else on Earth.
🏆 Malta World Rankings
Malta holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Malta
Malta is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🏛️ Valletta
UNESCO Europe's smallest capital, Baroque palaces, Grand Master's Palace and stunning Grand Harbour
🏺 Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
UNESCO underground prehistoric burial site carved from rock, 5,000 years old and remarkably preserved
🌊 Blue Lagoon, Comino
A stunning turquoise bay between the islands of Comino and Cominotto, crystal clear swimming
🏰 Mdina (Silent City)
A walled medieval city on a hill, car-free, timeless and hauntingly beautiful
Frequently Asked Questions About Malta
What is Malta famous for?
Malta contains the world's oldest freestanding stone structures, the Ġgantija temples, built around 3,600 BC, are 1,000 years older than Stonehenge. This tiny island has more history per square kilometre than almost anywhere else on Earth.
What is the capital of Malta?
The capital of Malta is Valletta.
What is the population of Malta?
Malta has a population of approximately 520K as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Malta?
The official languages of Malta are Maltese / English.
When did Malta become an independent country?
Malta gained independence in 1964.
What currency does Malta use?
Malta uses the Euro (€).
What is the GDP of Malta?
Malta has a GDP of $18.7B, with a GDP per capita of $35,962.
Where is Malta located?
Malta is located in Southern Europe, Europe.
Is Malta safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Malta vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Malta?
Valletta is the smallest capital city in the European Union. Malta has the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites per square km. The Maltese language is the only Semitic language written in the Latin alphabet.
What are some interesting facts about Malta?
Malta has the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites per square km. The Maltese language is the only Semitic language written in the Latin alphabet. Malta was awarded the George Cross by Britain for its heroic resistance in WWII.
Malta facts: what should I know?
Malta is a country in Southern Europe with a population of 520K. Its capital is Valletta and its official language is Maltese / English. Valletta is the smallest capital city in the European Union.
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