Malta Unwrapped

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Malta Unwrapped

🇲🇹Uncover Malta’s hidden gems | Stories beyond the guidebooks | 🔍 Hidden history & culture

15/01/2025

Perched at the corner of the northern balcony on the Grandmaster’s Palace facade in Valletta is a peculiar and intriguingly provocative corbel bold, bizarre, and impossible to ignore. 👀

This striking corbel in Valletta isn’t just art; it’s protection. From the bold bare-breasted figure warding off the evil eye to the grotesque face peeking through flowers, every detail shouts: ‘Look away!’ 🧿 Inspired by centuries-old beliefs across Europe, these sculptures were the ultimate defenders, ensuring envy and bad vibes stayed far from the palace walls.

25/12/2024

Thank you for being part of the Malta Unwrapped journey this year. Your love for Malta’s history and culture inspires us to keep sharing the stories that matter.

Here’s to a joyful Christmas and a fun - filled New Year!

23/12/2024

Day 23: It’s panto season! ✨🎭

No Christmas in Malta is complete without the laughter, drama, and all-out fun of a traditional pantomime! This beloved British import has been a festive favorite in Malta for decades, blending witty scripts, over-the-top costumes, and interactive audience moments.

From classic fairy tales to quirky modern twists, the panto promises something for everyone—kids giggle at the silliness, adults enjoy the cheeky humor. 😜

This year, the stage is set for unforgettable productions full of dazzling performances, magical sets, and plenty of surprises. Don’t miss them- they’re a cherished Christmas tradition that keeps getting better year after year.

22/12/2024

Day 22: Lija is glowing with festive spirit! This picturesque village is ready to light up Christmas with its stunning decorations and heartwarming charm. 🎄✨

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21/12/2024

Day 21: Standing tall in Valletta, this dazzling tree is more than just a festive decoration—it’s a symbol of a cherished tradition! While Christmas trees became popular in Europe during the 19th century, Malta embraced this custom later, blending it beautifully with its rich Catholic traditions.

The first modern Christmas tree in Malta likely appeared in the mid-20th century, reflecting influences from British culture during the colonial period. Today, our trees stand as magnificent reminders of Malta’s ability to merge global traditions with local charm.

What makes Malta’s Christmas special for you? Share your festive memories below! 🎁✨

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20/12/2024

Day 20: Skyparks is shining bright this season with this dazzling Christmas tree! 🎄✨ A perfect mix of modern art and festive cheer.

19/12/2024

Day 19: Did you know in Valletta holds a sweet piece of Christmas history?

🎄🍫 This humble chocolate tin was part of Queen Victoria’s heartfelt gesture to British soldiers during the Second Boer War, 1899–1902. Sent at Christmastime, these tins were a small but meaningful way to boost morale and remind troops of home.

While they were mostly sent to soldiers in South Africa, some found their way to Malta—an important British naval base at the time. A royal Christmas treat with a fascinating journey! 🎁✨

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18/12/2024

Day 18: One of Malta’s most cherished Christmas traditions is Il-Priedka tat-Tifel—the Boy’s Sermon—delivered during Midnight Mass. 🌟

The first-ever Priedka tat-Tifel was given by Ġorġ Sapiano in 1883 at the parish church of Luqa. Over a century later, this tradition continues to captivate congregations, as a young boy (or girl, in more recent years) stands at the pulpit and delivers a moving sermon recounting the story of the Nativity, reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas.

This tradition is a testament to Malta’s rich cultural and religious heritage, blending storytelling, faith, and community in one magical moment. ✨

Have you witnessed Il-Priedka tat-Tifel? Share your favorite memory of this special tradition below!

17/12/2024

Day 17: A Maltese Christmas isn’t complete without imbuljuta tal-qastan. ☕✨ This creamy, spiced chestnut and cocoa drink is more than just a treat—it’s a sip of tradition, perfect for warming up chilly December nights.

Served after Midnight Mass or during family get-togethers, it’s a reminder of simple joys and shared moments.

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16/12/2024

Day 16: Step back in time to a Valletta Christmas before the ravages of WWII, when the Royal Opera House stood proudly at the heart of the city. 🌟✨

This rare glimpse of Christmas in Valletta reminds us of the island’s resilience and its timeless beauty. The Royal Opera House, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, was the cultural jewel of the capital, hosting performances that brought elegance and light to the city.

📷 Malta Lura Fil Passat

15/12/2024

Day 15: Turkey may be the centerpiece of Christmas dinners in Malta and many other countries today, but have you ever wondered what a Christmas meal looked like during wartime? 🎄✨

This 1942 Christmas Day menu from the Royal Air Force in Malta offers a glimpse into festive resilience during one of the island’s toughest periods. Despite food shortages and the harsh realities of WWII, the spirit of Christmas was alive.

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14/12/2024

Day 14: Paola is all dressed up for the festive season! 🎄✨

This charming town is glowing with Christmas spirit, from twinkling lights adorning the streets to festive decorations bringing joy to every corner.

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Valletta

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https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g190320-d20062853-Reviews-Excursiones_en_Malta-Island_of_Malta.html

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