A second period of colonisation is attributed to a subsequent wave of settlers returning to Malta from Sicily. Over the ensuing 1,500 years, the colonies would embark on a seemingly insurmountable task: the creation of monolithic temples dedicated to the fertility goddess.  

This began with the construction of the Ggantija Temples in Xaghra Gozo. As it is so close to where we will be staying, I will be including a visit within the retreat.  Here we will hold a silent meditation.

However, our knowledge of these settlers and their customs is exceptionally scarce, given the limited information available about this specific period in Maltese history. It seems to have been literally wiped clean.

We do know, that around 2350 BC, this civilisation mysteriously vanished without a discernible trace, leaving behind the enigmatic temples and their open-air residences. Some archaeologists say it could be attributed to an infant mortality rate of 50% or greater from 2600BC to 2400BC, but cannot say for certain and without records, we may never know the truth.

870 BC - The Phoenicians Arrive

Believed to Originate from Lebanon, the Phoenicians arrived in Malta and what started off as a Bronze Age Settlement  would eventually develop into a city state called 'Maleth,' meaning - safe haven or 'Melita' in Greek. As it was located on a high ground plateau in the Northern part of Malta, it was perfect to defend (hence the name Maleth). 

They primarily utilised the island as a trading post on their journeys to other nations so defence was important. Soon the entire island would adopt the name Melita when the Greeks settled on the island around 736BC.

There's a suggestion that the Phoenicians who settled in Malta hailed from Tyre, the renowned center for dye production in the Levant. Tyre's wealth was built on the purple dye extracted from Murex snails found in the Mediterranean.

While the visible impact may be limited, the influence of the Phoenicians on Malta endures even today. Elements such as place names, numerical systems, and the Maltese language exhibit striking similarities to Arabic. Notably, Maltese remains the sole Semitic-based language in Europe, uniquely written in a Roman script.

Pretty cool huh?

528 BC - Carthaginians arrive

Malta became a prospering city as a trading post that linked Africa to European continents, it became a bridge facilitating trade all over. Examples and subtle hints of remaining architecture can be seen dotted around still. After what was a devastating and long war, in 218BC, Melita as it was still known came under Roman Rule.

218 BC - The Start of Roman Rule

1127 AD- Norman Rule begins

The development of the Maltese language is a complex process. While the language has Semitic roots and was influenced by Arabic during the Arab rule, it has evolved over the centuries, incorporating elements from various languages, including Italian and Sicilian. The Maltese language didn't simply "cut off" from its Arabic source but underwent a gradual transformation.

It's essential to acknowledge the nuanced historical processes, coexistence of cultures, and the continuous evolution of languages when discussing the history of Malta.

1530 AD - The Rule of the Knights of St. John

1. Arrival and Colonization (1530): The Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Knights of St. John, arrived in Malta in 1530 after being forced out of Rhodes by the Ottoman Empire. Charles V of Spain granted them the Maltese islands, and this marked the beginning of their significant influence on the region.

2. Italian as the Official Language: It's true that during the Knights' rule, Italian became the official language of Malta. This linguistic shift was part of the broader cultural impact of the Knights, who were primarily of Italian origin.

3. Strategic Importance and Defensive Measures: Malta's strategic location in the Mediterranean made it a crucial outpost for the Knights. They recognised the need for strong defenses against potential Ottoman attacks. The Knights invested in fortifications, transforming the Maltese islands into a formidable military stronghold.

4. Development and Infrastructure: The Knights took their responsibilities seriously and undertook ambitious projects to enhance the infrastructure of Malta. This included the construction of banks, hospitals, and public spaces. The island saw a flourishing of art and architecture under their patronage.

5. Naval Power and Defense: Recognising the importance of naval power for the defense of Malta, the Knights became skilled seafarers. They successfully repelled attacks on the island, notably resisting assaults from Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent.

6. Transformation into a Militant Force: The Maltese islands, under the Knights' leadership, were transformed into a militant force. The fortifications, including the renowned Fort St. Elmo, played a crucial role in the defense of Malta during the Great Siege of 1565 when the Ottomans attempted to capture the island.

The Knights Hospitaller's tenure in Malta left a lasting impact on the culture, architecture, and history of the islands. 

1. The Siege of Malta (1565):

   • A significant Ottoman force, led by Grand Vizier Mustafa Pasha, besieged the Maltese islands with around 40,000 troops.
   • The Knights of St. John, along with local Maltese defenders, faced the overwhelming odds with a force of around 9,000.

2. Length and Outcome of the Siege:

   • The siege lasted for an intense period of 3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days.
   • Despite being heavily outnumbered, the defenders, aided by fortifications and strategic planning, successfully repelled the Ottoman forces.

3. Celebration and Renown:

   • The Siege of Malta became a celebrated event in 16th-century Europe, and the defenders' resilience was widely acknowledged.
   • Voltaire, the French Enlightenment writer, mentioned the siege, contributing to its recognition in historical narratives.

4. Impact on the Ottoman Empire:

   • The failure of the siege is considered one of the setbacks that contributed to the decline of the Ottoman Empire. It demonstrated the limits of Ottoman expansion in the Mediterranean.

5. Literary Works:

   • Numerous books have been written about the Siege of Malta, with "The Sword and the Scimitar" by David Ball being highlighted as one of the notable accounts.

6. Rebuilding and Valletta:

   • Following the siege, the Knights Hospitaller, led by Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette, devoted efforts to rebuilding the damaged cities.
   • Valette initiated the construction of Valletta, a fortified city named in his honour. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1568, just two years before the completion of the city.

The Siege of Malta is a crucial episode in the history of the Knights Hospitaller and Malta, showcasing their determination and resilience against formidable odds. The construction of Valletta became a symbol of renewal and defiance, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural and historical identity of Malta.

1798 AD - The French arrive (but not for long!)

1. Napoleon's Brief Rule (1798-1800):

   • Napoleon Bonaparte seizes Malta from the Knights Hospitaller in 1798 after a short military campaign.
   • He introduces several reforms during his six-day rule, including the abolition of slavery, educational improvements, the establishment of municipalities, and public finance administration.

2. French Rule and Unpopularity:

   • The French administration in Malta, however, becomes unpopular due to their actions, such as ransacking churches and closing convents.
   • The Maltese people, displeased with the French rule, seek assistance from the British.

3. British Intervention (1800):

   • Lord Horatio Nelson blockades the French forces in Malta, leading to their surrender in 1800.
   • Malta becomes a British protectorate, serving as a crucial military and naval fortress.

4. Plague of 1813:

   • In 1813, Malta faces a devastating plague that takes a toll on the population. It starts at the Lazaretto Quarantine Harbour on Manoel Island and spreads across the islands, excluding Senglea.
   • The plague results in a significant loss of life, with about a third of the Maltese population succumbing to the disease.

5. Malta Railway (1883-1931):

   • In 1883, the Malta Railway is established, providing transportation on the islands. However, it closes fifty years later in 1931.

6. First Postage Stamps (1885):

   • In 1885, Malta issues its first postage stamps, marking an important development in the communication and postal services of the islands.

1. World War I and 'Nurse of the Mediterranean' (1914-1918):

   • Malta serves as a floating hospital during World War I, earning the nickname 'the Nurse of the Mediterranean' due to the significant number of wounded soldiers brought to the island for recuperation.

2. Sette Giugno Riots (1919):

   • The Sette Giugno riots break out in 1919, leading to increased autonomy for the Maltese islands.
   • The events contribute to a growing schism between Malta and the United Kingdom.

3. World War II and George Cross (1939-1945):

   • Malta is heavily bombed during World War II but retaliates, causing damage to Italian air forces.
   • In recognition of Malta's bravery, King George awards the island the George Cross, which is now featured on the Maltese flag.

4. Post-War Developments and Independence (1947-1964):

   • A new constitution in 1947 restores self-rule in Malta.
   • In 1953, the absence of a Maltese delegate at the Queen's Coronation contributes to the strained relationship between Malta and the United Kingdom.
   • Plans for independence are set in motion, and Malta gains independence in 1964.

5. Republic (1974) and Complete Independence (1979):

   • In 1974, Malta becomes a Republic.
   • The last British troops leave Malta in 1979, marking the complete withdrawal of British presence.
   • Malta is now a fully sovereign state with its own language, history, and national anthem.

2004 - Malta joins the EU

1. EU Accession and Adoption of the Euro (2004-2008):

   • Malta conducted a referendum to decide whether to join the European Union (EU).
   • Following debates and discussions, Malta joined the EU in 2004.
   • In 2008, Malta adopted the euro as its official currency, marking a significant step in its integration into the European economic and monetary system.

2. Valletta as European Capital of Culture (2018):

• In 2018, Valletta, the capital of Malta, was declared the European Capital of Culture.
• This designation is awarded annually to cities in the EU, highlighting their cultural richness and encouraging cultural exchange and cooperation.