Malta

This small island nation recently acceded to the European Union and must now undergo a process to comply with EU mandatory standards and rules. Hopefully this will not impact on its unique character and personality. For example the public transport system consists of a fleet of buses with an average age of around 40 years - hardly the height of efficiency and certainly not environmentally friendly but, in an island measuring roughly seventeen miles in length, effective enough and as much a part of the charm of this country as the unique ornate fishing boats.

It would be a mistake to assume from one's impression of the transport system that Malta is a backward nation. It is a vibrant country finding its way in the world in spite of the effects of globalisation and its effect on Malta's textile manufacturing and other industries.

Don't be fooled by the old fashioned buses. Malta, now independant for a mere 40 years, appears to be doing well.

Click on image to see larger version 

Marsaxlokk, Malta

This fishing port has become one of the popular day trip venues for visitors to Malta. The natural port is a very effective haven for the fishing fleet which mainly comprises small boats such as this very ornate one.

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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Auberge de Castille, Valletta, Malta

Undoubtedly the most elegant of Valetta's historic buildings,  the Auberge de Castille is today the office of the Prime Minister.

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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St. John's Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Malta

The photograph helps to show the extremely ornate interior of this old cathedral. This contrasts with a rather plain exterior apart from an interesting clock and bell tower. The Cathedral is home to a number of Caravaggio paintings including the brilliant and terrifying "The Beheading of St. John"

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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Republic Square, Valletta, Malta

This square in Valetta reminds me of the Piazza San Marco in Venice and is one of my favourite places to enjoy a beer a sandwich. Queen Victoria oversees the busy proceedings here. 

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The small fields separated by dry stone walls suggests the distribution of land as it is handed down with each successive generation. The soil is extremely red in colour.

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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Old Farm Track, Malta

This is typical of the Maltese countryside with its ancient pathways and many churches featured in silhouette on the horizon. A small track near Marsaxlokk leads down to the small chapel at Misrah Strenju.

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Valletta, Malta

This horse drawn carriage parked at It-Telgha Ta'Kurcifiss, one of the main entrance ramps into Valletta is one of many offering trips to tourists in all the major towns. The photograph was taken from the Upper Barrakka Gardens area looking across Grand Harbour towards the 'Three Cities" 

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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Evening at Marsascala, Malta

The town of Marsascala is built around a natural harbour of roughly one kilometer in length. A fine promenade was completed recently around its perimeter which is extensively used by the local population as a meeting place in the evenings. The venue has a special charm when the lights come on shortly after sunset. Marsascala, although not a tourist town, has excellent restaurants and is a great resort for those preferring a quieter holiday.

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Terraced fields facing south are essential for effective cultivation in this farm near Zurriek.

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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House at Mdina, Malta

This house, near the Greek Gate in Mdina, is representative of the sense of quietness in Mdina, known as the "Silent City".

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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A sleeping cat finds shelter from the midday sun on the roof of a car outside the Cathedral in Mdina.

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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Saint and Carriage, Triq Villegaignon, Mdina, Malta

The saint in the mural appears to have issues with the pony.

Carriages like these will take you around Mdina for a small charge.

Canon EOS 300 D digital camera

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All Photographs Copyright © 1995 - 2005 Neville Dukes.