Passaggi, April 2025

The KM Malta Airlines In-Flight Magazine

ISSUE 06

April 2025

PG 42

Greetings from Gozo in the ‘green’ season PG 57

Designing the national airline’s new accessories PG 64

Raise a glass to Malta’s wine production

in collaboration with

BEHIND ????????

PASSAĠĠI

ON THE COVER KM Malta Airlines' new uniform accessories

MEET THE TEAM DESIGN TBWA\ANG

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

EDITOR

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Fiona Galea Debono

Alan Carville Albert Camilleri Anton Bell Arts Council Malta Dave Gration Elisa von Brockdorff Jonathan Borg Margaret Press Images Michael Calleja Michella Scicluna Roberto Farrugia Ruth Zammit DeBono Shaun Spiteri Valeria Zammit - Gallery of Vallery Yanis Azzopardi - Ponder and Pitch

SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TBWA\ANG

CONTRIBUTORS Adriana Bishop Alexandra Alden Alexandra Aquilina Dean Muscat Din l-Art Ħelwa Elizabeth Jones Inkontru.app Michella Scicluna Ramona Depares Ruth Zammit DeBono Sean Borg

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE FEATURED IN PASSAĠĠI? For advertising opportunities, get in touch with TBWA\ANG on passaggi@tbwa-ang.com or (+356) 2131 0608 Abigail: abigail@tbwa-ang.com or (+356) 9929 0518

Shaun Spiteri

HOW TO PRONOUNCE PASSAĠĠI

/pasˈsadʒi/ Here’s the breakdown: • /p/ as in pass • /a/ as in art • /sˈ/ as in sun (with stress on the following syllable) • /dʒ/ as the sound of the j in 'judge' (geminated or doubled sound) • /i/ as in eat The word passaġġi means 'passages' in English.

The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or copied by any means without the written consent of the publisher. Editorial features and opinions expressed in Passaġġi do not necessarily reflect the views of KM Malta Airlines, the publisher, or the editorial team. Both KM Malta Airlines and the publisher do not accept responsibility for commercial and advertising content. Although the authors and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this magazine was correct before going to print, the author and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result f rom negligence, accident, or any other cause. Special thanks to KM Malta Airlines and VisitMalta for the provision of photographic material.

Printed in Malta by Gutenberg Press. All magazine rights are reserved by KM Malta Airlines.

TBWA\ANG, 3rd Floor, Professional Building, Sliema Road, Gżira GZR 1633 Malta \ (+356) 2131 0608 \ tbwa-ang.com

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Welcome to The KM Malta Airlines In-Flight Magazine David Curmi

Executive Chairman KM Malta Airlines As we mark the first anniversary of KM Malta Airlines, it is with immense pride and gratitude that I reflect on the relentless efforts of our employees – pilots, cabin crew, engineers, ground staff and everyone who works behind the scenes to make each journey smooth and enjoyable. Their dedication to excellence is the backbone of our airline, and I extend my deepest appreciation for their hard work.

From our inaugural flight on 31st March 2024, we have provided stable and all-yearround connectivity to 17 major airports in 15 key cities across Europe. Every milestone has been shaped by the unwavering commitment of our dedicated team and the trust of our valued passengers.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you for choosing to travel with us. Your trust and support mean the world to us, and we are committed to providing you with an enjoyable travel experience. As Malta’s national airline, we take immense pride in connecting our beautiful island to the world. Whether you are visiting Malta for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, or vibrant culture, or if you are a local travelling for business or leisure, we are here to make your journey smooth, comfortable and memorable.

This month, we are proud to introduce new uniform accessories for our pilots and cabin crew, created in collaboration with renowned Maltese designers Charles & Ron. This partnership brings a touch of contemporary Maltese style to our uniforms, reflecting the history and heritage of our islands. These elegant additions to our crew’s attire further embody our commitment to professionalism, service and national pride.

With the arrival of April, our Summer 2025 schedule is now in full swing. We are

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operating flights to 18 key airports across Europe, ensuring greater connectivity and flexibility for all travellers, including our latest route, Malta-Istanbul, with flights starting operation on 2nd June 2025. In partnership with Turkish Airlines, this added route will enable connecting trips.

We are also pleased to announce that KM Malta Airlines has been recognised with the prestigious ch-aviation Europe’s Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award 2025. With an average aircraft age of just 3.36 years, our all-Airbus A320-200neo fleet is one of the most modern and efficient in the skies today. As we recognise our responsibility to not only reduce our environmental impact but also to lead by example in supporting the country’s transition towards a greener future, KM Malta Airlines has also partnered with Open Airlines, adopting their SkyBreathe® Fuel Efficiency platform, a solution that offers an interface that ensures smooth and efficient teamwork to minimise aircraft fuel consumption.

As you relax on board, I invite you to explore this edition of our in-flight magazine, filled with inspiring travel stories, cultural highlight and insights into our airline’s latest developments.

We hope it adds to your journey and fuels your passion for exploration.

On behalf of the entire KM Malta Airlines team, I wish you a pleasant flight and a wonderful experience at your destination.

We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon.

Safe travels and thank you for flying with us!

Fiona Galea Debono Editor

My own personal gauge for Passaġġi is often based on whether, as I edit a particular issue, I myself have learnt anything new about my own country; whether I come across something I had never heard of before.

I also measure it in terms of feedback from locals – people who have lived here all their lives, know these islands inside out, and yet, may read through the magazine, designed primarily to inform and guide visitors, with interest, gaining a fresh perspective.

The April issue passes the test as regards the novelty element for me.

If I can get excited about activities and events that are taking place, and if I find out about new or hidden aspects of these islands, then I feel we are on the right track.

– generations of statue bearers in religious processions, who are passing on this privilege.

And the next time you bite into a figolla, you will also know where this delicious almond-based biscuity Easter treat came from – yet another piece of Malta’s rich cultural tapestry, woven together with generations of tradition and creativity.

We hope to leave you with much to chew on, whether this is your first taste of the Maltese Islands, or you realise you have been taking many things for granted.

That starts off from Mġarr – described as an unrushed, out-of-the-way village and home to fenkata restaurants. But now I also know how this slow-cooked rabbit delicacy tradition all began and why this local dish is so popular in this particular place.

Then there’s Torri Mamo in Marsascala: today also a unique venue for private parties, it was originally a fortified home and not just a watchtower. And take Malta’s fledgling wine industry: its roots actually go back 3,000 years, surviving against the odds. Talk about aged vino!

Of course, the April issue could not but feature the upcoming Easter celebrations and traditions. The focus, however, is on how young children are committed to taking this religious heritage into the future. They are proudly following in the family footsteps

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Contents 8 ISLANDS 8

Mġarr, the village that time didn’t rush From the fenkata to the frawli and the festa

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TRAVEL 16

Spring awakening in Düsseldorf A city for every type of traveller

20

The leppoisa lifestyle What to see in Helsinki

HERITAGE 26

A fortified home Torri Mamo’s protective role

CULTURE 28

This month’s cultural encounters Explore April’s exciting artistic events

ARTS 33

73 6

Malta’s art scene takes flight The internationalisation of local artists

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GOZO 42

In green season Hiking, sunsets and sipping wine on the sister island

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PEOPLE 46

Young hearts, ancient traditions The children shaping the future of Easter celebrations

PET TRAVEL 52

A dog owner’s guide to stress-free flying Tried-and-tested tips to improve the experience

FASHION 57

From runway to runway New airline uniform accessories

by Charles & Ron

ENTERTAINMENT 64

Meet Malta’s first wine ambassador Soak up this unique fledgling industry

FOOD 73

Sweet Easter treats Oversized almond-stuffed biscuits

81

Mediterranean & genuine And a nod to international influences in local fare

57 64

AIRLINE NEWS 84

Flight, company and destination information All you need to know about flying with KM Malta Airlines

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Photos: Jonathan Borg. Mġarr Parish Church of the Assumption.

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Mġarr, the village that time didn’t rush

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ISLANDS

Words by

Dean Muscat Dean is a writer and musician who is increasingly drawn to exploring, and writing about, the stories and places that shape his home island of Malta.

Find out more, through the eyes of a proud Mġarri, about this out-of-the-way locality that hasn’t quite succumbed to the tides of modernity and is home to the tasty fenkata, sweet Festa Frawli and other cherished traditions.

It’s funny how even on an island as small as Malta some localities still feel like they’re tucked away from it all. As soon as you leave the rush of the Mosta bypass and drive down the road that slopes toward Mġarr’s village core, you feel the change.

The Parish Church of the Assumption greets you with its open parvis looking out onto rolling emerald hills and farmland.

Suddenly, the island’s busyness fades into the background and is replaced by an altogether more unhurried pace of life.

I usually find myself in Mġarr a couple of times a year, typically for one thing: a fenkata. The village is practically synonymous with this Maltese delicacy of rabbit slow cooked in wine, garlic and herbs, served with chunky chips and roasted veg.

But today, I’m here for something different.

I’m meeting Mario Vassallo, a local historian, former baker, farmer and proud Mġarri, whose family roots run deep in these parts, to find out more about this village that hasn’t quite succumbed to the tides of modernity.

Still, whether it’s because I skipped breakfast or it’s some deep-seated Pavlovian conditioning, I can’t quite shake the thought of rabbit, even though it’s barely nine in the morning. So, that’s where I choose to start my line of enquiry with Mario; to learn why Mġarr is so tied to the tradition of the fenkata. Turns out, the village’s out-of-the-way location has something to do with it.

“You have to go back to after World War II,” he begins.

“There was very limited public transport; barely any cars on the island. The only people who came to Mġarr were merchants and butchers, buying fruit, vegetables and meat straight from the farmers here. They’d travel by horse and cart, and they’d be here for the better part of the day.

Naturally, they got hungry. Some would ask the baker to make them ħobż biż-żejt; others would set aside a rabbit from their haul and ask someone to cook it up for them on the spot.”

And that’s how it all started. Families became popular for their rabbit recipes, and over time, some even opened small restaurants. These days, family-run spots have grown into a cluster of busy eateries around the parish church, serving not just rabbit but other local staples like horse meat and bebbux (snails). “Mġarr’s never been more popular,” Mario says. “Stop by any day of the week, and the restaurants always seem to be packed.”

Mġarr’s farming community has had a hand in other village traditions too. One of the most unique customs in Malta happens here every year, where a special offering gives donors the right to carry the statue of Santa Marija during the feast.

“The village became a parish in 1898,” Mario tells me. “Back then, the majority of the 1,000 or so residents were farmers, and they asked their parish priest, Kapillan Ġlormu Chetcuti, to build them a church.” Funds were tight, but they raised enough. Then in 1921, when there was no money for a titular statue, 13 farmers stepped forward with a proposal to cover the cost – if they’d get to carry it in the upcoming feast.

The priest agreed, and the statue was duly ordered from Marseille for the princely sum of Lm170 (€395), arriving in April 1922. “It was a phenomenal amount for men who earned just a few cents a day, but somehow, they managed.”

The following year, another group covered the remaining debt on the statue in exchange for carrying rights, and so the tradition stuck.

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ISLANDS

THE LEGEND OF CASTELLO ZAMITTELLO

Castello Zamittello.

On the outskirts of Mġarr stands Castello Zamittello, built in 1675 and linked to a local legend. The tale goes that a wealthy baron wanted his daughter, Luċija, to marry the son of a Sicilian nobleman to secure the family fortune. But on the wedding day, as celebrations filled the streets, Luċija was nowhere to be found, with many believing she was kidnapped by pirates.

Years later, the church bells rang mysteriously. Villagers rushed inside to find a glowing apparition at the altar. It was Luċija, who revealed she had fled home to become a nun, where she nursed soldiers on the battlefield until she was killed by a wayward arrow.

With her story told, she vanished.

Now, on Mġarr’s feast day, which takes place on the first Sunday after 15th August, hundreds gather in the village piazza as groups make their offering for the honour. Whoever gives the biggest donation gets to shoulder the statue through the streets.

“Often this tradition is misunderstood as some sort of bidding war. But it was a way for farmers to thank God, for their health, their livestock, their harvest,” Mario explains. And it still is.

In fact, till this day, many make their offering as a wegħda, or a vow, to Holy Mary, praying for a loved one’s healing or giving thanks for past blessings.

And as Mario points out, even though the highest donors get the honour of carrying the statue, there’s a moment in the procession where they step aside, letting others take a turn too.

Talking to Mario, it’s clear that the Mġarrin are quite a self-sufficient bunch.

If something needs doing, they tend to get together to sort it out themselves.

Take their feast, for example. Wanting to extend the celebrations and raise more funds to keep traditions alive, they launched Lejla Mġarrija (Mġarr night) in 1980, a village festival showcasing local produce. “At one point, it was even more popular than L-Imnarja,” Mario says, referring to the annual harvest festival in Buskett woodlands.

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suggests

Festa Frawli.

Hiking through the Mġarr countryside leads to a treasure trove of natural beauty and offthe-beaten-track wonders.

Then, when interest waned in the early 2000s, the village committee came up with a fresh idea, turning the event into a celebration of one of its most beloved crops: frawli (strawberries). “Strawberries have a long history in Mġarr. I remember as a boy, we grew a Maltese variety no bigger than a caper, but it was incredibly sweet. Over time, this local variety died out as imported strawberries took over, which were easier to grow throughout the year and larger in size. And as the Maltese say, l-ewwel ma tiekol l-għajn (the eye eats first).”

Today, the annual Festa Frawli draws thousands each year, with stalls serving up fresh strawberries and all sorts of strawberry-based treats, from sorbets and ice creams to cakes, pastries and more, all made from some 12 tons of strawberries grown by Mġarr’s farmers.

As my time with Mario comes to an end, he walks me to my car, parked beneath the church, right where those sweeping farmland views steal your attention. Nearby, a group of kids are on a treasure hunt, huddled over a clue. One of them spots Mario and lights up.

“Look, there’s Mario! He’ll know, he knows everything about Mġarr!”

> Skorba Temples (pictured above): Explore the megalithic remains offering a glimpse into Malta’s Neolithic past. > Victoria Lines: Follow the waymarkers past Castello Zamittello to a 12km stretch of historic fortifications. > Fomm ir-Riħ: Walk along dramatic cliffs, with breathtaking views over a secluded pebble beach. > Għajn Tuffieħa: Make your way to this stunning sandy beach, famous for its striking red hues. > Binġemma Tombs: Discover an ancient burial site in the valley with chambers carved into the rock.

I smile as I say my goodbyes, hoping there’ll always be people like Mario keeping these small, everyday histories from slipping away.

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Must-see sites

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ISLANDS

Words by

Heritage Malta The national agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage, it is the guardian of over 8,000 years of history.

If this is your first visit to the Maltese Islands, you cannot leave without ticking these sites off your list.

The Inquisitor’s Palace

Birgu

The Inquisitor’s Palace is both a historic house museum and the National Museum of Ethnography. Built in the 1530s, it was the powerhouse of the Holy Roman Inquisition that dominated Malta for over 224 years. After the French abolished the Inquisition in Malta upon their arrival in 1798, the building served French and British rules, as well as the Dominican Order for a period of time after World War II. The Inquisitor’s Palace also houses the National Textiles Collection.

The Grand Master’s Palace

Valletta

Newly restored and proudly dominating St George’s Square, the Grand Master’s Palace invites you to wander along its 450-year history as a centre of power and the symbol of a nation. Presently the seat of the Office of the President of Malta, the palace grants visitor access to over 85 per cent of the building’s footprint, including the magnificent Armoury.

Its restoration project was partly financed via the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The National Museum of Archaeology

Valletta

With artefacts dating back from Malta’s Neolithic period (5900-2500 BC) up till the early Phoenician period (8th-6th century BC), the National Museum of Archaeology is definitely your first step to understanding the richness of the land you tread on, its people and their ancestors. Its ground floor is dedicated to the Neolithic period, while the upper floor currently houses the Bronze Age and the Phoenician period sections. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.

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ISLANDS

MUŻA – The National Community Art Museum

Valletta

The acronym MUŻA refers to the mythological Muses of Classical Antiquity and to the Maltese term for artistic inspiration. Through a varied collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, silver pieces, works on paper and objets d’art, MUŻA’s main focus is to show artistic developments in Malta impacted by its Mediterranean context, as well as the cultural influences resulting from the governance of the Order of St John (1530-1798), the British Empire (1800-1964), the postIndependence period (from 1964) and the overall impact of the Church.

Ġgantija Gozo

The Ġgantija Archaeological Park complex is a unique prehistoric monument listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Situated in Xagħra, it consists of two structures built between c.3600 and c.3200 BC. Notwithstanding its age, the monument survives in a considerably good state of preservation.

Entrance to the Ġgantija Archaeological Park is through an interpretation centre, which houses a selection of the most significant artefacts discovered at various prehistoric sites in Gozo.

The Malta Maritime Museum Birgu

A stroll along the beautiful Birgu waterfront is not quite complete without a visit to the Malta Maritime Museum, housed within the Old Naval Bakery and charting 7,000 years of Malta’s maritime history, from prehistory to the present day. The museum partly reopened its doors in February 2024, having been closed for some years for a major rehaul, partially supported by the EEA Norway Grants. Presently, it houses a one-of-a-kind exhibition titled An Island at the Crossroads.

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Wied il-Mielaħ Window

Salt Pans

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25 ‘Kappar’ Capers

Żebbuġ

26

Għasri

Tal-Mixta Cave 27

Għarb

23 Xagħra Victoria

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Qala

Nadur 28

‘Bużbież’ Wild Fennel

Għajnsielem Sannat 22

Sanap Cliffs M

COMINO

ġa rr-

GOZO

KEMMUNA

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Ci rk ew w

G Ħ AW D E X

aM

Crystal Lagoon

Passenger Ferry

ġa rr

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Vehicle & Passenger Ferry

Ċirkewwa

Red Tower

S T P A U L’ S ISLANDS

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Mellieħa

01 Popeye Village

16 St Paul’s Bay

‘Bajtar tax-Xewk’ Prickly Pears

09 ‘Frawli’ Strawberries 08

02

Mġarr

05

Mos ‘Merill’ National Bird

Rabat

Valletta

Mġarr 19.4km

01

02

Dingli

B

BEACHES 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15

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Anchor Bay Armier Bay Balluta Bay Delimara Point Fomm ir-Riħ Għadira Bay Għar Lapsi Ġnejna Bay Golden Bay Marsaskala Bay Marsaxlokk Bay Paradise Bay Pretty Bay Salina Bay St George's Bay

Dingli Cliffs

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

St Paul's Bay St Peter's Pool St Thomas Bay Wied iż-Żurrieq Xrobb l-Għaġin Blue Lagoon Santa Marija Bay Daħlet Qorrot Dwejra Bay Marsalforn Bay Ramla Bay San Blas Bay Xlendi Bay Xwejni Bay ~ Salt Pans

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‘Lampuki’ Dolphin Fish

INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOTS IN AND AROUND MĠARR

Parish Church of the Assumption.

‘Xemx’ Sun

Mġ

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et

ta

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ġa

rr

M A LT A Pembroke 15

Għargħur St Julian’s

Sliema

sta

03 Valletta

Gżira

Upper Barrakka Gardens

Fomm ir-Riħ.

Naxxar

01 ‘Ħobża tal-Malti’ Maltese Bread

Birgu Qormi

Żebbuġ

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Buskett

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Marsascala

Luqa 20

Marsaxlokk

Qrendi

‘Qarnita’ Octopus

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Żurrieq

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Għajn Tuffieħa.

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ar

Ġnejna Bay.

KM Malta Airlines Airbus A320neo

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sponsored by

FILFLA ‘Luzzu’ Traditional Fishing Boat

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TRAVEL

Spring awakening in Düsseldorf Nestled in the heart of the Rhineland, this is a city where elegance meets innovation, offering something for every type of traveller – whether you're a fashionista, an art lover, or a foodie.

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recommends

Fashion and shopping

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Words by

Alexandra Aquilina Alexandra is an entrepreneur, screen printer, musician and multi-media artist based between Malta and Berlin.

Springtime in Germany is a truly magical experience. As the cities begin to emerge from the long winter nights and what feels like an everlasting darkness, flowers being to grow in their gardens, trees start to go green, and the air gets warmer.

In April, Düsseldorf begins to pulse with life and fresh energy, and a sense of renewed vigour electrifies the air. The city's cherry blossoms bloom along the River Rhine, beer gardens reopen, cultural outdoor events and lively spring fairs are organised and locals shed their winter coats to bask in the sunshine, warm smiles starting to spread across their faces. It’s a time of revival in the run-up to the city's famous summer fair, Rheinkirmes, complete with thrilling rides, traditional German snacks and festive beer tents set along the river.

Spring in a park on the Rhine in Düsseldorf.

Equally popular is the city’s Japan Day in May, celebrating one of the largest Japanese communities in Europe. It is so large, in fact, that Düsseldorf has its very own little Tokyo, where locals and visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture and are spoilt for choice when it comes to their cuisine.

A huge perk in most German cities is the possibility to leave the hustle and bustle behind without having to go too far by stepping into some beautiful green lung. The Japanese Garden is a serene oasis, featuring vibrant flowers, ponds and traditional Japanese landscaping. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon.

Equally stunning is the Hofgarten, one of Germany’s oldest parks, offering a perfect mix of history and tranquillity. The longer days are an opportunity to take a romantic stroll along the Rhine promenade, ending with a view of sunset.

And if you’re tired of walking, I recommend hopping onto one of the river cruises to explore the city from a scenic and unusual perspective. For a bird’s-eye view of Düsseldorf, head to the Rheinturm with its revolving restaurant offering a panoramic vista of the twinkling city lights, making for a truly romantic evening.

Düsseldorf is a fashion capital of Europe, and a visit to the Königsallee, also known as the "Kö," is a must for luxury shopping. This tree-lined avenue is home to high-end boutiques and designer stores, making it the perfect spot for a shopping spree.

If luxury shopping isn’t your style, head further down the Kö for more affordable brands; and for those looking for something quirkier and more unique, explore Loretto Street in Unterbilk, where you’ll find charming boutiques, artisanal chocolate shops and cosy cafés.

Alternatively, Ackerstraße in the Flingern district is a hot spot for the trendy crowd, offering a variety of concept stores, eco-friendly fashion labels and stylish interior design shops.

For a more local and lively experience, check out the Carlsplatz market, located in the heart of the city. Offering everything from delicious food to fresh flowers, this vibrant market captures the spirit of Düsseldorf’s bustling culture.

If you’re after a good treasure hunt like me, spring also brings a variety of open-air flea markets. Two of the best for a day of thrift shopping are the Radschlägermarkt, named after the city’s iconic cartwheeler symbol, and the Aachener Platz market, where hundreds of stalls line the streets with everything from vintage finds to handmade goods, while guests are entertained with live music.

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TRAVEL

KM Malta Airlines operates regular flights between

Malta International Airport (MLA) and Düsseldorf (DUS) kmmaltairlines.com

City hall in the Old Town.

ART, HISTORY AND FOOD

Düsseldorf is a city where elegance meets innovation. Nestled in the heart of the Rhineland, a region rich in culture and economic influence stretching from Switzerland to the Netherlands, it holds its own as a major European hub.

The city has long been a magnet for visionaries and artists, from the electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk to fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld and painter Gerhard Richter. It effortlessly blends historical charm with a modern edge, offering something for every type of traveller – whether you're a fashionista, art lover, or foodie.

Every trip to Düsseldorf must start by exploring the Altstadt, or Old Town, famously known as the “longest bar in the world” thanks to its many pubs and bars. Try their local Altbier, a dark beer unique to the region, at one of the historic breweries. And if you’re not into beer, sample some Rheinland wine, paired with local dishes that often feature potatoes and hearty meats.

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The Hofgarten.

Art lovers will be spoiled for choice in Düsseldorf. The renowned Kunstakademie, the city’s prestigious fine arts academy, has birthed many world-renowned artists, and its legacy is alive at the Kunstpalast Museum, which merges art, theatre and music into a truly immersive experience.

The Kunstsammlung NRW is another must-see, offering three distinct venues: the K20 at Grabbeplatz with its showstopping façade, the K21 in the Ständehaus, and the Schmela Haus, each offering unique experiences, showcasing modern and contemporary masterpieces.

For a taste of history with a dash of elegance, the Schloss Benrath, a stunning 18th-century pink baroque palace, offers not only breathtaking architecture but also museums dedicated to European garden art and natural history, housing an impressive collection of sculptures, artwork, paintings and artifacts from the 18th century.

Düsseldorf is the perfect balance of tradition and innovation, blending cultural heritage with enterprise and nature in a beautiful way. Spring is the perfect time to experience Düsseldorf, with the city at its best – alive, colorful and full of energy.

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Schloss Benrath.

suggests

01. Himmel und Ähd (Heaven and Earth)

A traditional dish of potatoes and apples often served with black pudding. The name comes from the Germanic word for potato – erdapfel (earth apple) while the heaven element is represented by the apfel (apple), as they grow on trees.

02. Halve Hahn

Beware! This is not actually a half chicken as the name implies, but half a rye roll (called Röggelchen) served with Gouda cheese, butter, gherkins and a healthy dose of spicy mustard and always great with a glass of Altbier.

03. Mustard

The German’s are known for their love of mustard, but this adoration peaks in Düsseldorf, which boasts four mustard varieties protected throughout the EU. Known for being spicy rather than sweet, it is served on bread, with potatoes or on their juicy roasts. Make sure to sample them all!

The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen modern building.

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20 Sibelius Monument.

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TRAVEL

Words by

Ramona Depares Ramona is an author and journalist with an interest in culture-related topics. She runs her own food and culture website at ramonadepares.com

The Leppoisa Lifestyle Eclectic, hip, and easily accessible, Helsinki is a great summer spot. Think relaxed, unhurried days, just enjoying life.

For many, the desire to escape the cloying summer temperatures in southern Europe is real. Enter Helsinki, Finland – just north enough to give you a break from the sweat, but still within reasonably easy access and with all the familiarity of the Continent.

teens on the far end of the promenade were playing in the basketball court; young mothers spread picnic blankets on the green, as their children played; others simply sat on the ground or the benches, reading quietly.

I had zero expectations beyond this, when I decided to spend a good chunk of my summer in Finland’s capital. Barely any research done, we alighted from Tallinn at the Helsinki ferry terminal and cabbed it straight to our hotel in the Kamppi district, bang in the centre of the city. It was after 6pm, and we were tired, but the sun was still shining bright and there was plenty to discover. So, after a quick shower, we decided to meander in the direction of Kaisaniemi Park, a gorgeous green space within the city itself.

It appeared that, without any effort, we had found the city with the perfect eclectic mix of street life and culture. We found an empty bench, bought some soft-serve ice cream and spent the rest of the evening enjoying the music and chatting. This introduction to Helsinki was to set the tone for the next month, during which we adopted the Finnish leppoisa lifestyle – relaxed, unhurried days, just enjoying life.

Even before hitting the park, we realised we had made an excellent choice when we decided to extend our Estonia holiday with a stop in Finland. This regular midweek evening in Helsinki was right out of a picture postcard – there was an indie band giving an al fresco performance outside a café; a group of

What to do in this city? On the shopping front, Kamppi Shopping Centre and Galleria Esplanad are a must. Kamppi is less expensive, but at Galleria, you’ll hit upon the one-off finds, like the limited-edition flowered Dr Martens that I pounced on. I also got hooked to the Relove chain of thrift stores, where I found an amazing YSL vintage skull shirt for peanuts.

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If you’re into culture, schedule a few hours at the Oodi library, even if just for the impressive architecture. You can meander at will, maybe dropping into the kitchen learning area, borrowing a guitar to play, or recording in one of the studios… The wonder of this is that it’s all free. The library is on the top floor, where you’ll also find a café and a massive terrace with sweeping views. You can borrow any book or boardgame you like and read and chill on one of the bean bags. And, for a shameless plug that I can’t resist, you can even ask for my collection of stories, The Patient in Hospital Zero, which was accepted for inclusion in the national database.

For outdoor fun, walk across Kaisaniemi Park to Töölönlahti Park – the two are connected by green pathways, and the whole walk takes around 45 minutes. Eventually, you’ll get to a small, incredibly picturesque bay, which enjoys a spectacular sunset and a gaggle of geese and swans to add to the fairy-tale aspect. If you get there early enough, you can rent a SUP from Hakuna Matata, and then float back in time to enjoy the open air DJ sets on the beach. You may want to cab it back to the city centre, rather than walk through the parks at night.

Finally, a day trip to Suomenlinna Fortress is a must. Take the ferry from Market Square and keep your phone handy as the hour-long trip is one whole photo opportunity of gorgeous scenery. The island fortress was built in the 18th century to defend from Russian invasion by sea, and today, it is home to less than 1,000 people. You don’t need to be into history to enjoy it. Enjoy the greenery, the views, the tiny restaurants and – if you dare – take a dip in one of the bays. The water’s freezing in July, but this doesn’t stop the locals.

Other than that, don’t overplan it. Embrace the leppoisa lifestyle and let yourself soak in the city vibes.

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Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden.

Suomenlinna Fortress.

TRAVEL

????????

suggests

Dining out in Helsinki Most restaurants close by 10pm or earlier, and good places will be full at peak hours. Don’t leave things too late, because you won’t find any fast-food places open, and you could very well end up going to bed hungry. That, or (heavens forbid) resorting to a Fizza – vending machines that claim to prepare pizza in three minutes. They’re not exactly Finland’s finest culinary moment, and let’s leave it at that.

A restaurant meal in Helsinki is nothing like the Mediterranean experience.

Even when dining at a high-end eatery, expect to be in and out in under an hour. Restaurant dinners are not viewed as a social occasion, where you can linger upon a bottle of wine. You’ll be made to feel very uncomfortable if you try to do that.

Oodi Central Library.

And on the subject of wine, check prices before ordering. Alcohol is prohibitively expensive, and most prices refer to a glass, rather than a bottle. If you get there by ferry from Estonia, my advice is to take advantage of duty-free alcohol prices on board. You’ll see plenty of Fins with large carriers, shopping for booze.

The sight amused us, until we figured out that we should follow suit.

You can reach Helsinki with KM Malta Airlines via Amsterdam with KLM, via Munich with Lufthansa, or via Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Düsseldorf, London, or Prague via Finnair.

As to where to eat, avoid the restaurants on the promenade by Galleria Esplanad, as they tend to be overpriced tourist traps. We very often opted for those at the top floor of Kamppi Helsinki. Having dinner at a shopping department is rarely on my to-do list, but in this case, it offered the best options and a sweeping view of the city. There are a number of fast-food chains – go past them to discover high-end gems like Hoku, serving Asian fusion.

For cheap eats, visit Market Square at the southern end of Esplanade Park. You’ll find myriad heated tents serving soups, traditional delicacies like herring and reindeer, fresh fruit salads, pies and more.

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PROPERTY

Words by

Mizzi Estates

HONOURING OUR PAST. DEFINING THE FUTURE 46, Cygnet, is the latest creation by Mizzi Estates, offering spaces that can truly be called home, as well as celebrating Malta's rich architectural heritage.

46, Cygnet is Mizzi Estates’ latest addition to its residential portfolio – and this is no ordinary apartment block, says General Manager Kevin Muscat.

While realising Cygnet has been “one whole challenging and indeed rewarding experience,” he stresses that the aim was to create a space that concretely cherishes the past while embracing the future.

More than an abstract concept, Mizzi Estates sought to uphold principles of restoration and conservation throughout all stages of this prestigious development. From in-depth analysis of visual impact and aesthetics, form and function, all the way to achieving high environmental performance – reduction of carbon footprint and waste, and water conservation – Mizzi Estates adopts a multifaceted approach in truly creating best-of-class properties.

Muscat and Chris Mizzi, Managing Director of Mizzi Estates, share a common ethos, embracing key principles of conservation, sustainability and efficiency, and above all aesthetic beauty. “Our aim is to deliver projects of a high standard. It’s ultimately quality, quality and quality – a value which we

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very much keep close at heart. We always make sure our projects make a statement and go a step further, beyond what the market is accustomed to delivering,” states Mizzi.

Cygnet, sitting right in the heart of Gżira, was no exception to this vision. An engineer by profession and specialised in sustainable environmental management, Muscat explains that since the project’s inception and early design stages, his dedicated inhouse team of architects and interior designers, together with leading architectural consultants EM Architects, set a design strategy to develop a residential build which stands in complete harmony with streetscape, urban character and local context. With this ethos at heart, Mizzi Estates, which forms part of the Mizzi Organisation, undertook a design, architectural and engineering feat, giving testament to the island's rich architectural history, with subtle traces of past generations woven into the fabric of this residential development while showcasing a blend of practicality and beauty.

The meticulously restored façade on the ground and first floors now radiates a refined elegance, blending the island’s traditional craftsmanship with a sense of timeless beauty. The limestone masonry, carefully cleaned and repaired, now gleams its warm, golden hue, accentuated by the intricate stonework that adorns the façade. The restored surfaces, once weathered and worn, now display a sense of renewed strength and grace.

Meanwhile, the upper floors’ intricate crafting and meticulous laying of new limestone cornices (gavda), elegant door and window frames (lavur/gwarniċ), vent grilles (ventilaturi) among other traditional masonry features, are a true testament to local artisanship – revealing the passion and mastery of the skilled hands of local masons.

Photos: Michael Calleja

The timber apertures are a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

The wood, painted in rich colour and finished in a brushstroke texture, exposes its natural grain. Contrasting beautifully with the pale stone, the louvered shutters open to reveal the airy spaces behind them, inviting sunlight and sea breezes into the building's interior, allowing for a perfect blend of privacy and shade while maintaining connection with the outdoor environment.

Despite the wide array of aperture materials available on the market – from PVC and aluminium to Glass fibre Reinforced Polymer (GRP) and other composites – Mizzi Estates gave no second thoughts: “Solid timber was the obvious choice from the outset, in keeping with what our forefathers were accustomed to,” Muscat maintains. However, Malta’s very humid and warm climatic conditions, making wood prone to warping, paint flaking etc., warranted an in-depth analysis of the selection of raw materials, detailing of aperture frame joints and profiles, paint application, as well as acoustic, thermal and water tightness considerations. Furthermore, while incorporating modern, high-performance doubleglazing, tilt-and-turn mechanisms and double-rubber seals to ensure optimal performance and ergonomic comfort, more traditional elements such as metal-locking mechanisms (spanjuletti/firrolli), hooks (ganġetti) and hinges (guffuni) were adopted – evoking the classic Maltese aesthetic.

Adding a striking contrast to the timber apertures, the steelwork on the open balconies and door fanlights was crafted with precision, through the creation of a floral geometric pattern of delicate curves and sharp lines – all in harmony with the building’s overall aesthetic.

Balcony railings stand slender and graceful, offering both visual interest and practicality. Since the property sits a few metres away from Gżira’s promenade, all steel creations were hot-dipped galvanised and powdercoated to be able to withstand the corrosive coastal environments synonymous with the area, thus ensuring their long-term integrity.

Doors dressed with ceramic knobs and diamond-shaped raised panels are other features maintaining the building’s authentic character and charm - all fine examples of local craftsmanship reminiscent of an era where beauty met function in every detail.

“This project was not simply an act of repair and construction – but a celebration of Malta’s rich architectural heritage, carefully preserving the building’s character while breathing new life into it. It stands as a proud example of the island’s ability to truly honour its past while embracing the future,” maintains Muscat.

“The Maltese Islands are endowed with a marvellous array of townhouses and other traditional dwellings, each testament to its rich history and its architectural prowess.

Each stone holds stories of past generations and of the island's long and complex history," Muscat says. "Their preservation is essential, not only to maintain the aesthetic beauty of Malta's towns and villages but also to protect the soul of the island, ensuring that future generations may continue to experience and be inspired by the architectural legacy that has shaped this remarkable place.

We sincerely hope this creation – which attests an almost seamless blend of tradition and innovation – will serve as a beacon for others to emulate.”

This prestigious, highly-finished, corner property sits in the heart of Gżira, within a minute’s walk from The Strand, and is now available for rent.

Block comprises: > Corner, 60sqm, Class 4B commercial at ground floor level > Three 2-bedroom & 2-bathroom apartments > One duplex, 2-bedroom & 3-bathroom penthouse including a 45sqm terrace For enquiries, contact: (+356) 2596 9255 / (+356) 7957 2690 / info@mizziestates.com.mt

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HERITAGE

Words by

Din l-Art Ħelwa DLĦ is the National Trust of Malta, an NGO founded to safeguard the country's historic, artistic and natural heritage.

A fortified home Torri Mamo may play host to intimate weddings and parties today, but in the time of the Knights, it had a major protective function for families.

Now, re-enactors bring history to life, giving a new perspective to this unique 16-sided watchtower in the south.

The story of the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 has made its way into legend: for four months, the island staved off an attack by the Ottoman Empire, protected by 500 Knights and approximately 6,000 foot soldiers.

It was not the first time that the Ottomans had tried to take the strategically placed island, but what few people know is that it was not the last ‘visit’.

Years after their resounding defeat of 1565, an Ottoman fleet of around 5,0006,000 soldiers in 60 ships stopped in Malta one more time on its way to Libya.

They landed on the southeastern coast at Marsascala in 1614 and made their way towards Żejtun, before being pushed back by the Knights and armed locals.

It was the last time that the Ottomans landed on the island, but at the time, who could be sure of that? You can hardly blame the families, living far from the protection of the Knights’ fortifications, for their fear that they would be back.

The Knights reacted by building coastal watchtowers, but the families in the south could still close their eyes and smell the burning fields. They needed protection and a number fortified their homes.

One superb example of this is Mamo Tower – known to the Maltese as Torri Mamo.

It was built in 1657, by Gregorio and Giorgio Mamo, father and son, who were master builders of the Knights. Located in open countryside, it is just 500m from the coastline, with 16 façades in a unique St Andrew’s cross formation, around an internal domed hall. The dome alone, with its complex stonecutting, makes a visit worthwhile.

Torri Mamo is surrounded by a two-metre-wide moat – where you can see a 4thcentury tomb, showing the long occupation of this site over history.

The one-storey tower has expansive views from the roof, but the Mamo family were not after aesthetics; rather, the ability to communicate with the many other fortified homes nearby. These were not only lookout posts but also offered refuge in case of any attack.

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The Mamo family lived in the tower for centuries, but its role changed with time: at the end of the 18th century, the Knights were preparing to defend the island from the French, and Mamo Tower was taken over by the Militia Regiment of Żejtun and Żabbar. Later, it passed on to the Sciberras Bologna family, and at the beginning of the 20th century, to the Strickland family.

The following years saw the tower take on various roles, including the construction of a pillbox on its roof by the British Armed Forces in 1940 – although only the base of this is still visible. However, following the war, the tower fell into disrepair, being handed over to Din l-Art Ħelwa, the National Trust for Malta, in 1988.

Work then started on restoring this beautiful site, both internally and externally. Eventually, with the help of sponsors, the tower was repaired and facilities such as a bathroom and kitchen were added, turning it into a fantastic venue for small functions.

The hard work resulted in guardianship for the non-profit organisation, which it holds to this day. The tower, which has been under the care of warden Joe Degiorgio for over seven years, is open to the public on the first Sunday of every month, but it also hosts events, from private functions, like weddings and birthday parties for up to 100 people, to reenactments where costumed re-enactors show in impressive detail how life would have been centuries ago.

Joe is like a proud father, always happy to talk to visitors about the tower’s history and context, whether hosting an event or, for example, the Historical ReEnactment Group of Malta (HRGM) and the Compagnia San Michele.

“These groups can do their reenactments anywhere, but the context

makes a big difference. Visitors love to see the re-enactors in the tower’s setting,” Joe says. The re-enactments have a dedicated following, but they also attract new visitors who relish the opportunity to see the tower in a different light.

Photo: Jonathan Borg. Mamo Tower.

HERITAGE

“Tourists also love to seek us out, stopping here during countryside treks. And those who do not have rental cars can also come by bus. There is an infrequent bus that stops very close by, but there is also a more frequent one that stops just five minutes away,” Joe says.

For more information about the tower and its events, check out the Torri Mamo Facebook page.

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CULTURE

Words by

This month’s

cultural calendar April in Malta brings a blend of sacred Holy Week traditions and exciting artistic events. There’s something for everyone, so get ready to explore!

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

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A Place That Fades When: 4th April - 18th May Where: MUŻA, Valletta

Rockestra When: 12th April Where: MFCC, Ta’ Qali

Giola Cassar explores the vanishing of urban gardens through acetone-transferred photography on fabric.

Her works portray green spaces as fragile sanctuaries and repositories of memory and culture, which are now fading under the pressures of urbanisation.

Classic rock and pop tunes are given the orchestral treatment in this massive benefit concert in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund. Every year, locals flock to Ta’ Qali's MFCC to sing their hearts out with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and the crème de la crème of Maltese entertainers.

Palestrina’s Lamentations for Holy Saturday When: 12th April Where: Basilica of St Dominic, Valletta

Kor Malta – Holy Week Concert When: 16th April Where: Spazju Kreattiv, Valletta

Cappella Sanctae Catharinae performs Palestrina’s Lamentations for Holy Saturday (1588), along with other responsories and Gregorian chants from the liturgy. Experience this sacred choral music in its original context.

KorMalta Ensemble presents a concert blending sacred and folk traditions. Journey through spirituality with works by Leontovych, Monteverdi, Byrd and Bruckner in a powerful exploration of faith and culture.

CULTURE

Good Friday Pageants When: 18th April Where: Various localities Experience Malta's rich Catholic traditions with Good Friday theatrical pageants that bring the Passion of Christ story to life with actors in biblical costumes, dramatic performances and even live animals. These re-enactments showcase the Maltese people's strong religious faith, with months of preparation from hundreds of volunteers (see story on PG48). Notable parishes to visit for their pageants include Żejtun, Marsa, the Three Cities, Valletta, as well as Victoria in Gozo.

Beauty and the Beast on Ice When: 19th - 21st April Where: MFCC, Ta’ Qali Beauty and the Beast on Ice arrives in Malta, featuring world-class skaters on a real ice arena. Watch this timeless tale come to life with breathtaking choreography, dazzling costumes and magical storytelling where love conquers all and even the coldest hearts can thaw.

Malta Spring Festival When: 22nd - 26th April Where: Various venues, Valletta A world-class celebration of classical, chamber and contemporary music, the Malta Spring Festival brings renowned musicians, ensembles and dancers to Valletta. Emotionally charged and thought-provoking performances transform the capital into a cultural haven at the dawn of spring.

Ray Pitrè: Figure in Rods When: Throughout April Where: MICAS, Floriana Experience this final masterpiece by Maltese visionary Ray Pitrè. This striking bronze sculpture, meticulously developed in collaboration with the artist, now takes its rightful place on the museum’s campus as a permanent tribute to his artistic legacy.

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TRADITIONAL FEASTS & CELEBRATIONS

HOLY WEEK IN MALTA Holy Week in Malta is steeped in tradition and deep devotion. During this time of year, many village homes decorate their ground-floor windows with miniature statues and draperies, while illuminated crosses are displayed on balconies.

On Palm Sunday, some parishes recreate the Last Supper table, a tradition rooted in centuries-old celebrations at the Oratory of the Blessed Sacrament in Valletta, while Maundy Thursday sees the ritual of the ‘seven visits’, where devotees visit seven churches, reflecting on Christ’s final hours. After, families enjoy Qagħaq tal-Appostli, a ring-shaped loaf of bread made with honey, almonds and sesame seeds.

Good Friday is marked by solemn processions, where statues representing the Stations of the Cross are carried through streets in a moving display of faith.

Unlike pageants, these processions encourage parishioners to gather in silence and reverence.

INSTALL inkontru.app Step into Malta’s scene with inkontru.app, your personal guide to all the latest art, culture and heritage events in Malta and Gozo. More than just a calendar, the app connects you with exciting events, artists and creators, with exclusive interviews and video features. Easily find event details, get directions and purchase tickets – all in one place. Need a ride? Book a cab effortlessly through the app and share your plans with friends and family with ease.

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On Easter Sunday, the mood shifts to joy, as families celebrate the resurrection of Christ. In some towns, groups of men run with massive statues of the Risen Christ on their backs towards the church, while children chase after, and parishioners cheer them on. Families gather for large meals, traditionally featuring lamb, and children are gifted figolli (see story on PG74), a biscuity almond cake that comes in all sorts of shapes. The flavours of kwareżimal, a spiced almond cake, and karamelli, sweets made from carob and honey, are additional highlights of Malta’s culinary heritage.

For a guide to upcoming religious celebrations and traditional feasts across the Maltese Islands, be sure to visit inkontru.app

CULTURE ????????

A TASTE OF MALTA Explore traditional flavours with fun cooking classes and guided food tours that highlight the island’s most iconic dishes.

Alex Vella Gregory.

Valletta Food Tour When: Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday in April Where: City Gate, Valletta

INKONTRU.APP MEETS...

Artistic director and founding member of Cappella Sanctae Catharinae, Alex Vella Gregory highlights the significance of this choral ensemble's upcoming performance of Palestrina’s Lamentations for Holy Saturday.

WHAT’S SIGNIFICANT ABOUT THE LAMENTATIONS? Palestrina’s music represents the pinnacle of Renaissance polyphony in the musical liturgy.

As part of the Catholic Reformation, he wrote the Lamentations, a sacred choral work to be performed over three days in Holy Week, with music inspired by the biblical text.

HOW DOES YOUR CONCERT FIT INTO HOLY WEEK? Malta’s Holy Week is rich in pageantry, which can sometimes overshadow its meditative side. In recent years, our male choir has helped revive the tradition of choral liturgies in Malta, offering a space where music, spirituality and beauty merge through performances open to all.

WHY DOES SACRED MUSIC STILL MATTER? While sacred music is loaded with symbolism and theology, at its core it holds simple universal truths. I believe a work like Palestrina’s Lamentations invites us to come together in silent reflection, something we all need in these times marked by uncertainty and an overload of information.

Take a delicious journey into Maltese cuisine with Colour My Travel’s guided food tour. Book ahead and gather at Valletta’s City Gate at 10am, as an experienced guide leads you through Valletta’s charming streets while you sample authentic local specialties. Along the way, uncover the hidden stories behind Malta’s culinary traditions and get expert tips on the best spots to eat and shop for traditional treats. This is a must for food lovers looking to explore Malta beyond the usual sightseeing.

Braġjoli Cooking Class When: 10th & 24th April Where: Gululu Restaurant, St Julian’s Learn an authentic recipe for Braġjoli (Beef Olives), under the guidance of Gululu’s head chef.

This traditional Maltese dish is made from thin slices of tender beef, rolled with a stuffing of finely chopped hard-boiled eggs, ham, parsley, garlic and Parmesan cheese, all simmered in a luscious wine and onion gravy.

Festa Frawli When: 27th April Where: Mġarr Wander through the idyllic village of Mġarr and sample from a banquet of scrumptious strawberrythemed snacks, desserts, jams, gourmet dishes and beverages – even strawberry wine!

Discover and experience more with inkontru.app, your web-based application that prioritises functionality and performance, meaning no need to download, seamless updates, no storage space taken and easy sharing. Enjoy!

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ELEVATE YOUR JOURNEY WITH AIRPORT EXCLUSIVES

LAND YOUR MOMENT

ARTS

Words by

Dean Muscat

As Arts Council Malta marks its 10th anniversary, it is looking back on a decade of the island’s presence at international biennales while focusing on the further internationalisation of local artists.

Romina Delia.

Malta’s art scene takes flight

For ACM, internationalisation isn’t new, but it’s now an even bigger priority. “We really want our artists to be at the heart of Malta’s future,” says its Executive Head Annabelle Stivala.

“The council has always had an internationalisation unit, but through our latest strategy, we are homing in on it more than ever. We’ve gained valuable experience over the past decade, and we want to build on that to give artists more opportunities to get out into the world to develop their artistic skills and bring fresh perspectives back to Malta.”

Annabelle Stivala.

Hitting a milestone anniversary is always a good opportunity to take stock of where you’ve been, what you’ve built, and where you’re heading next.

And this year, as Arts Council Malta (ACM) marks its 10th anniversary, it’s looking back on nearly a decade of the island’s presence at international biennales while sharpening its focus on taking local artists even further onto the global stage.

Head of International Cultural Relations, Dr Romina Delia adds: “This isn’t only about showcasing or exporting talent. Our goal is to build stronger ties with other countries and cultures. This way, we learn from them, and they learn more about Malta and our heritage through dialogue, sharing traditions and contemporary art in all its forms. Through culture, we build trust and understand each other more.”

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ARTS

Photo: Courtesy of Malta Arts Council. URNA, Ebejer Bonnici.

Photo: Margaret Press Images. I Will Follow the Ship, Matthew Attard, Venice Biennale 2024.

The theme of cultural exchange has been core to Malta's pavilions at leading biennales, going back to the country’s debut at the Venice Art Biennale in 2017. The Malta Pavilion, Homo Melitensis: An Incomplete Inventory in 19 Chapters, co-curated by Raphael Vella and Bettina Hutschek, explored the concept of identity and featured iconic Maltese symbols like the pavaljun, the intricately designed, baroque-inspired street banners seen during local festas.

Romina explains that several Maltese curators and artists tend to draw from Malta’s rich cultural heritage, reinterpreting it in contemporary contexts. This was, for example, evident in the 2022 Venice Art Biennale, where the team behind the Malta Pavilion was inspired by Caravaggio’s painting of the Beheading of St John in Valletta.

For the 2024 Venice Biennale, Matthew Attard’s artwork, I Will Follow the Ship, took inspiration from 400-year-old ex-voto ship graffiti found on many Maltese chapels. In a different fashion, the team behind the 2025 London Design Biennale project, URNA, uses Maltese limestone to create geometric, spherical forms that redefine cremation.

And while Malta may be small and has fewer resources compared to some of the art world’s powerhouses, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “It’s been brilliant,” Romina says. “Everyone involved in bringing these projects to life puts their heart and soul into these

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projects, and it’s being noticed, with mentions in major publications like The Guardian and Financial Times, and major arts outlets.”

Annabelle reflects on the collaborative effort it takes to make these projects happen: “It’s never a one-person show.

Each biennale involves dozens of people from the artists of course, but also architects, curators, musicians, sound designers, IT experts and more. We also send along Erasmus students to foster collaboration between the younger and older generations. We want them to feel inspired to pursue careers as curators or artists themselves.”

Building on these successes, the council has been expanding several of its initiatives with boosted funding to give Malta-based artists even more opportunities to showcase their work overseas, providing a range of experiences and practical support The International Participation Scheme (IPS) offers funding for artists to take their projects outside of Malta, whether it's participating in festivals for literature, film, visual arts and other artistic mediums, or attending networking opportunities.

“Apart from participating in fairs and festivals, we also recommend artists to consider participating in international artistic residencies, where they get to stay a few months anywhere in the world and build meaningful

ARTS

" We have incredible talent on this island, and it’s our mission to support these artists by creating the right strategies and structures to help them share their work with the world." connections,” Romina explains. “It’s a great way to immerse yourself in new cultures and step out of your comfort zone artistically.”

This month, the International Cultural Exchanges Scheme (ICE) opens its call for artists, aiming to foster further international collaboration through the arts. In addition, Arts Council Malta is a full member of EUNIC, the EU network for National Institutes of Culture, working alongside other cultural institutes and embassies based around the world and together organising several arts festivals and events worldwide. Another significant development is the launch of the first-ever Cultural Attaché project, which Annabelle believes will help the council amplify Malta’s global network.

“We want to encourage as many local artists as possible to take advantage of this support. That’s why we’re constantly revising our guidelines, so we ensure we are attracting new talent and welcoming undiscovered voices,” Annabelle adds, going on to explain that the council has been actively working to forge connections outside the EU, in Japan, New York, Africa, and elsewhere.

In this light, the council is particularly excited about Malta’s debut participation in the prestigious 2026 Gwangju Biennale in South Korea. Alongside the Venice Biennale that same year, calls are open for artists to apply, with a focus on multidisciplinary projects, blending visual arts with music, dance, performance, or other innovative ideas.

Meanwhile, back home, the council is overseeing a project that brings Malta’s international art presence to local audiences. This rolling retrospective exhibition will feature six installations that have represented Malta at the Venice Art Biennale and the London Design Biennale over the past decade.

“These incredible projects are returning home, reworked slightly for local venues in Valletta, Mdina and Birgu,” explains Annabelle. The exhibition will run from May to November 2025, offering both locals and visitors a chance to experience these groundbreaking works in a new context.

Current Exhibitions Joana Vasconcelos Transcending the Domestic

Closing 20 April 2025

Conrad Shawcross What is to become is already here

Closing September 2025

Ray Pitrè Figure in Rods

Closing 29 June 2025

Upcoming Exhibtions The Space we Inhabit MICAS Build Milton Avery MICAS @micasmalta MICAS @micas.malta

micas.art

Opening May 2025 Opening July 2025 Opening October 2025

Find us

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Moveo Dance Company on tour, supported by Arts Council Malta.

Arcangelo Sassolino, Malta Pavillion, Venice Biennale 2022.

ARTS

Looking ahead, one can’t help but feel the future is looking bright for Malta’s arts scene. “We have incredible talent on this island, and it’s our mission to support these artists by creating the right strategies and structures to help

them share their work with the world. We invite people to check out our initiatives and open calls. We look forward to seeing your projects and art, and to help you reach your full artistic potential,” Annabelle says.

ŻFINMALTA - DECADE Teatru Salesjan, Sliema 5th - 26th April The award-winning British duo Thick & Tight bring their distinctive and theatrical style of dance to mark the 10th anniversary of ŻfinMalta, Malta’s national dance company. DECADE is a spectacular new work celebrating Malta and its identity. Through dance, music and the voices of local people, the work encapsulates the Maltese spirit, both where DECADE is an invitation for audiences to celebrate the achievements of ŻfinMalta and to see Malta through fresh eyes. spazjukreattiv kreattivita.org

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Welcome to TEATRU MANOEL

Situated in Valletta, Malta’s capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Teatru Manoel, Malta’s National Theatre, was built in 1731 by the Knights of St. John and is a unique example of early baroque architecture.

It hosts the busiest theatrical season on the Island and is open for visits all year round.

For more info, visit our website

teatrumanoel.mt

THEATRE

Words by

Sean Borg

Blending his artistic background with marketing expertise, Sean creates impactful narratives that connect audiences with the arts.

The Caravaggio Experience More than a concert, this Valletta Resounds performance is an unmissable journey through art and history, where the synchronisation of light, music and storytelling transforms the Oratory of St John’s Co-Cathedral into a living masterpiece for audiences to engage with Caravaggio’s work in a way never experienced before.

Set within the awe-inspiring St John’s Co-Cathedral, a landmark masterpiece built by the Knights, Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience has broken records as the longest-running performance in a historical site, offering a one-of-a-kind cultural spectacle.

Produced by Udjenza, under the artistic direction of Toni Attard, it seamlessly weaves together Malta’s rich history with theatrical storytelling, classical music and breathtaking art, creating an experience that is as captivating as it is unforgettable.

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Held beneath Caravaggio’s only signed masterpiece, The Beheading of St John the Baptist, the unique stage of this performance is the Oratory of the CoCathedral. As the public departs, once visiting hours are over, it becomes a time capsule, reigniting stories of the Knights of St John and transporting audiences into a bygone world.

Under the musical direction of Jacob Portelli, the concert experience showcases the works of baroque masters such as Vivaldi and Bach, along with the sacred sound of Francesco Azzopardi, performed on authentic period instruments, including the Co-Cathedral’s original 16th-century organ, along with baroque harp, violin, cello and psaltery.

Photo: Elisa von Brockdorff . Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience in the Oratory of St John's Co-Cathedral.

THEATRE

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Photo: Albert Camilleri . Jeremy Grech in the role of Fra Bartolomeo.

THEATRE

The angelic voices of some of Malta’s most esteemed sopranos, Dorothy Bezzina, Hannah Tong and Dorothy Baldacchino, soar through the Oratory, complementing the grandeur of the Co-Cathedral’s baroque interiors.

With every performance, one soprano takes to the stage, accompanied by an impressive multi-instrumentalist. This auditory delight is woven harmoniously with tales of the Oratory by actor and accredited tour guide Jeremy Grech, through his portrayal of the evercharming Fra Bartolomeo.

At the heart of the show lies the gripping story of the Italian artist, his tumultuous past and the masterpiece he left behind. The dramatic backdrop of centuries-old stories offers audiences a unique glimpse into Malta’s past.

The light installation of The Beheading of St John the Baptist is a mesmerising and immersive feature that enhances the concert experience, offering audiences a fresh perspective on Caravaggio’s masterpiece. As the music unfolds and the narrative of

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Fra Bartolomeo delves into the history of the Knights of St John, a carefully orchestrated light projection illuminates hidden details within the painting.

This dynamic play of light and shadow mirrors Caravaggio’s own mastery of chiaroscuro.

The synchronisation of light, music and storytelling transforms the Oratory of St John’s Co-Cathedral into a living, breathing masterpiece, allowing audiences to engage with Caravaggio’s work in a way never experienced before.

Now in its third year, Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience has received rave five-star reviews on Tripadvisor, with audiences calling it “a masterpiece of music and storytelling,” “a privileged experience” and “an exquisite journey through time”.

Running from April to June, Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience is more than a concert; it’s an unmissable journey through music, art and history. Performances take place weekly at 6.30pm, with exclusive early access at 6pm, allowing guests to walk around the Co-Cathedral in its quietest hours, free from the bustle of daytime crowds.

And for those seeking an even more immersive experience, a VIP package is also available, including a professional guided tour of the Cathedral before the performance. Conducted in English, it unveils the artistic and historical treasures of Malta’s most visited landmark, with insight into the intricate marble tombstones and Mattia Preti’s breathtaking frescoes.

Valletta Resounds: The Caravaggio Experience is produced in collaboration with VisitMalta, St John’s Co-Cathedral and VIP Tours Malta. For tickets and more information, visit vallettaresounds.com

Words by

Michella Scicluna Michella is a traveller, foodie, adventurer and teen mum all wrapped in one. She is a citizen of the world, with a passion for discovering her tiny little rock.

In green season While Gozo shines in summer, it truly comes alive in spring. Whether you visit for a night or three, the island is a destination that promises a unique experience. Here’s how to make it unforgettable.

When is the best time to visit Gozo?

That’s a question I get asked many times. My answer? In green season.

Gozo is at it prettiest and quietest when its hills turn emerald, carpeted in wildflowers. Yes, our summers are beautiful, but this green season I talk about has its own allure… magic.

This, for me, is the time when Gozo is the perfect destination – even for a staycation. It’s a short window to veer off the beaten track and discover its hidden beauty. Whether you decide to go by yourself, as a family, or in a group of friends, you can get a different perspective of this tiny island at this time of the year.

HIKE IT There is no better way to experience the tranquillity of Gozo than by setting off on a hike. For a route that takes you beyond the usual trails, make your way to the Chapel of San Dimitri.

From here, the path will lead you to the rugged cliffs by the same name, where nature and the ancient legend

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of Żgugina meet. As you walk along the path over the cliffs, with the crashing waves far below, you will be surrounded by the vast openness of the Mediterranean Sea on one side and green fields, bursting with life, on the other.

DOWN TO QBAJJAR FOR A SPOT OF BOĊĊI The chances of enjoying a clear blue sky on your stay are on the high side, given that these islands get over 300 days of sunshine a year. And although it is not summer yet, the sea is still as inviting. Locals are already making their way to the beach to enjoy its calming lull. Follow their way of life, grab a hearty ftira with tuna from Victoria and head down to Qbajjar.

A short walk below its main road, leading to the old battery, you just might spot the locals playing the traditional game of boċċi, a playful practice that is slowly becoming extinct. If you are brave enough, you could even go for a dip. There is something quite exhilarating about

Photos: Michella Scicluna. San Dimitri cliffs.

GOZO

en t u l G !

Free

Email: info@strand.com.mt Tel: +356 21441768

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GOZO

Qbajjar Salt Pans.

swimming in the colder months, which the locals say is what keeps them young.

SITTING, SIPPING AND CHILLING If you’re not into hiking and cold plunges, and you’re more the ‘sit, chill and enjoy a nice bottle of red’ kind of person, then the Salt Pans is where you want to be… and I don’t mean the ones in Xwejni where everyone flocks, but those in Xlendi.

Walk over the bridge past the 17th-century watchtower, and there you’ll find the sloping salt pans, facing the open deep blue sea and the cliffs on the side. This is one of the island’s best sunset spots. As you sit, sipping wine, and watching the fiery display, you can also spot the fishermen on their boats returning after a day out at sea with their catch. It’s a true postcard moment.

NO FRILLS – JUST GOOD FOOD Despite being so small, Gozo has so much to offer.

You just have to delve a bit deeper, and its secrets will be unlocked. Countless visitors stroll along the busy and narrow streets of Victoria, but they often miss its hidden gems. The Kampnari Bakery is one of them.

Tucked in an alleyway near St George’s Basilica, it has been baking traditional cheese pies, baked pasta and ftiras for decades. On occasion, you may be lucky enough to find a few tables and chairs, where you can sit down and enjoy these delicious baked goods. No frills – just good food.

5 SUNSET SPOTS Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse Dwejra Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs Sanap Cliffs Xwejni Bay

Come the evening and you’re looking for a dining experience to wrap up your visit, nothing beats Ta’ Karolina’s romantic seaside tables in Xlendi. There are many great eateries on the island, but this one’s famous Linguini with Prawns is a dish that will keep you coming back for more.

Xwejni.

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EXPERIENCE EXPERIENCE WHERE IT ALL STARTED

WHERE

IT ALL

STARTED

VISIT CISK THE HOME OF

The Brewhouse, Mdina Road, Birkirkara +356 2779 6700

PEOPLE

Words by

Adriana Bishop

Adriana is a former news journalist and travel PR executive, now a freelance writer based in Switzerland, with her heart and eyes always set on her forever home Malta.

Young hearts, ancient traditions The future of Malta’s Easter traditions is in the hands of children like 10-year-old Andrea Camilleri and Katrina Busuttil, who are perpetuating five centuries of religious heritage for the next generation.

If you think Christmas is a big event, you have not witnessed Easter in a Catholic country yet. The feast celebrating the death and resurrection of Christ is the biggest moment in the Catholic calendar. While some countries consider it more as a spring festival, with cute bunnies, blossoms and rivers of chocolate eggs, in Malta, Easter is still steeped in centuries-old traditions, intrinsically tied to the Church. Don’t worry, the chocolate eggs do feature as well.

Easter is the culmination of 40 days of preparation and fasting, although there’s less of the latter these days.

Before we even get to crack open those chocolate eggs and munch our way through the long-awaited figolla almond biscuit (see PG74) on Easter Sunday, there is a poignant and solemn build-up during Holy Week, when religion and tradition come together to commemorate the passion of Christ, with costumed pageants, processions and exhibitions in several towns and villages involving large swathes of the community.

The week begins with the procession of Our Lady of Sorrows when some devotees walk behind the statue of

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Our Lady barefoot to the sound of solemn band marches.

It continues with Palm Sunday, celebrating Christ’s entry into Jerusalem when branches of palm trees are carried during the slightly more upbeat processions. Maundy Thursday marks the Last Supper with a special Mass, after which churches are stripped of their silverware and finery in a sign of mourning that continues throughout Good Friday.

On Easter Saturday, churches turn the bling back on when the resurrection of Christ is announced with much fanfare, culminating on Sunday with fireworks and joyous processions in which men run in the streets carrying the statue of the Risen Christ shoulder high.

Good Friday is such a cornerstone of Maltese cultural heritage that in Maltese it is called Il-Ġimgħa l-Kbira (the great week). The processions and pageants we see today were probably imported from Spain and Sicily – a reflection of the island’s chequered past, from the days when Malta used to fall within the aegis of the King of Spain before it was handed to the Knights of St John in 1530 and remained under the dependency of the diocese of Palermo until 1807.

PEOPLE

Photos: Roberto Farrugia.

The earliest known Good Friday procession to be held in Malta was organised by the lay confraternity of St Joseph attached to the Franciscan Friary in Rabat and probably took place in the late 16th century. It did not feature any statues except, perhaps, that of the nailed figure of Christ. By the midto late 18th century, the processions grew to feature people dressed up in costumes. This ‘new’ tradition seemingly died out until it was revived in the 1970s.

In my childhood, Good Friday processions were such a big thing that they would be televised live and radio programmes would only play solemn, funerary music. Today, towns like Żebbug, Żejtun, Valletta, Vittoriosa, Senglea, Mosta, Rabat, Luqa and Qormi organise elaborate processions involving hundreds of participants in full costume and grand statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross.

While crowds of mostly tourists still flock to see the processions, organisers are acutely aware of the need to ensure these traditions remain alive among the local community for generations to come. With this in mind, the confraternity Sodalità San Sebastjan in Qormi, which was established around 90 years ago, has now started organising a children’s procession called Via Matris, marking the seven sorrows of Our Lady.

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PEOPLE

Andrea Camilleri.

Katrina Busuttil.

Chris Camilleri, the rector general of the lay confraternity, explains how they wanted to start “something different” involving children and adolescents dressed as biblical figures and carrying statues.

The privilege of carrying a statue in one of the religious processions, be it Easter or the summer village feast, is not so straightforwad to come by.

In 2023, they started organising a Via Matris procession, involving 200 children aged from five to 15 years old. Some dress up as biblical figures or Roman soldiers while older children aged between 11 and 17 are given the opportunity to help carry the specially sized statues along the two-hour route.

In some towns, the honour is passed on through the family from father to son. In Qormi, it is reserved exclusively to members of a confraternity who are chosen according to how many points they collect throughout the year by attending other church activities. The higher the points, the more chances they have to carry a statue in the more important events, with Good Friday and Easter considered to be the most significant in the calendar.

Chris comes from a family of religious festa enthusiasts and is the third generation of statue bearers. Now he hopes his sons Luca, 13, and Andrea, 10, both altar boys, will follow in his footsteps.

This will be Andrea’s third year participating in Via Matris and he is clearly very proud of this. He will be wearing his personal custom-made costume as a Roman centurion, with a metal breast plate that, this year, will be sporting a new red cape.

But little Andrea already has his eyes set on the future. “For now, I enjoy dressing up, but in future, I would like to carry the statue like my dad. And, in my mind, when I have kids, I already know that I want to make sure they will grow up in this tradition too.”

Listening proudly, dad Chris confesses that his family loves Easter and especially Good Friday even more than Christmas. “This is the period I would be waiting for all year,” Chris says.

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Women do not normally carry any statues except for special occasions such as one particular moment in the summer feast of St Sebastian in Qormi when they are permitted to do so for the duration of one band march song.

However, 10-year-old Katrina Busuttil is hoping to change that. She is also gearing up to take part in the Via Matris procession again for the third year.

And in future, she plans to “compete with the boys” as her father Joseph put it. “I would like to carry a statue too,” Katrina says defiantly.

Check all info at festivals.mt

PEOPLE

Michela Busuttil.

The older teenagers carrying one of the statues.

Chris and Joseph hope the Via Matris will help further such traditions. “One of the biggest problems is that children these days are not so exposed to our traditions. It is becoming increasingly difficult to keep them going. During the pandemic, we had to stop organising the processions and many of the participants decided not to come back to take part again afterwards.

That’s why we created the Via Matris event – to sow the seed again and foster it in the next generation,” Chris explains.

think I love my community. I will tell my friends to come and watch me,” says Katrina.

Even at his young age, Andrea is already aware of this problem and the responsibility he is ready to shoulder to keep it going. “Today, Good Friday is not as solemn as it was 20 years ago. It is a day like any other. My friends think it is boring, or a new thing, but personally, I really enjoy it.”

For Katrina and her sister Michela, 14, who also participates in Via Matris, this is their opportunity to be closer to their community especially as they attend school in another town. “My friends at school know that I take part in this procession and they

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And how does she feel about walking through the streets with all those people watching? “It feels good,” admits Katrina, who, as a young ballerina, is already used to performing in front of large audiences. “But I do feel a little bit nervous and excited at the same time.”

Her father Joseph, who is in charge of logistics and marketing, reveals that on the day, there is “a little bit of chaos” as he and the team of volunteers try to control a bunch of excited children behind the scenes. “Some would still be getting dressed in their costume, some are running late, others are already dressed up and running around so will need to have their hair or clothing fixed.”

The event is growing every year and Joseph says it gives the committee much satisfaction to see that the people want this.

“The kids want it too and that is what makes us happy,” he adds.

This year’s Via Matris will be held on 5th April. The procession will start at 6pm from St Sebastian Square, Qormi, opposite the old Church of St Sebastian. The best place to watch the two-hourlong procession is from the square or along St Sebastian Street.

M er id ia n a W in e Es

The Maltese Islands are islands steeped in history and resilience - and our winemaking tradition is no exception. For over 2,700 years, since the Phoenicians first planted vines, these islands have nurtured a unique wine culture shaped by centuries of change.

At the heart of Maltese winemaking are two native grapes: Ġellewża, a soft and fruity red, and Girgentina, a fresh and delicate white. Alongside them, international favorites like Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon thrive under Malta’s abundant sunshine.

With around a dozen wineries - some over a century old - Malta and Gozo produce just 1.5 million bottles a year, making their wines a rare and cherished find. To truly experience this hidden gem, there’s only one way - visit the islands and taste their story for yourself.

Meridiana Wine Estate was founded by Mark Miceli Farrugia after Bordeaux oenologist, the late Denis Dubourdieu persuaded him of the potential for high quality wine growing in Malta.

After successful experimentation, a 19 hectare site was acquired in Ta’ Qali, Malta’s agricultural heartland. The land was reclaimed from a second world war airfield, which lies scenically below the ancient walled city of Mdina.

The winery was completed in 1996, in time for the first grape harvest of 1997.

Current annual production stands at approximately 140,000 bottles, spread on eleven DOK Malta labels.

Meridiana Wine Estate

@VisitMalta

ta te

PETS

Words by

Ruth Zammit DeBono

Roy at the vet.

Ruth is a passionate traveller, artist and devoted dog mum, who finds joy in storytelling and discovering the world always with her pet by her side.

A dog owner's guide to stress-free flying Whether it’s your first flight with your dog or you’re looking for ways to improve the experience, here are some tried-and-tested tips to help you along the way.

Travelling with a pet can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right preparation, it can be an enjoyable and stress-free experience. As a regular traveller with my miniature poodle, Roy, I’ve learned the ways to ensure that flying is smooth and comfortable for both of us. Here’s my advice: PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY The secret to stress-free travel begins long before you arrive at the airport. First, check the airline’s pet policy to ensure your dog meets the requirements for in-cabin travel. KM Malta Airlines allows small dogs or cats in the cabin if they, including their carrier, do not weigh more than 10kg in total. The carrier must be a collapsible soft case bag and must fit under the seat in front of you.

Before planning a trip with your dog, securing a pet passport is essential. In the EU, dogs need a valid pet passport, issued by an authorised veterinarian, confirming they are microchipped and vaccinated against rabies.

The passport also includes details of health checks and any additional requirements depending on the destination.

It’s always best to check the latest regulations before booking as rules can change.

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????????

points

Tips for a comfy flight:

.....

Exercise before the flight if possible – a good walk and some mental stimulation will help your dog relax during travel.

Limit food and water a few hours prior to departure to prevent discomfort.

To help your dog feel comfortable in its carrier, gradually introduce it as a safe space before the trip. Take short car rides or outings to pet-friendly places while they remain inside. Since some airlines may ask you to show that your pet is able to stand and turn around inside the carrier, practise this at home to avoid surprises at the airport.

AT THE AIRPORT & ON BOARD Arriving early at the airport will give you time to check in hassle-free. KM Malta Airlines also permit pet strollers to be checked in free of charge if you’ve already paid for the Pet in Cabin (PETC) service.

On board, your dog must remain in the carrier throughout the flight, under the seat in front of you. While it may seem restrictive, this set-up ensures their safety and comfort during the flight.

Travelling with a pet is a delightful experience, and with planning, it becomes second nature.

Bring familiar items, such as a favourite toy or blanket, to help them feel secure.

Remain calm and relaxed – dogs sense their owner’s mood.

For full details on pet travel policies, visit KM Malta Airlines’ website.

@pupspaintandprosecco

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Explore more

legends

Swashbuckling stories ... from the pages of history Malta’s location at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea determined much of its destiny. Boasting a harbour so large that it could service any fleet, by the mid18th century Malta was a centre for commerce, military activity and corsairing.

A few weeks ago, Heritage Malta launched its latest publication entitled Morte o Fortuna – Corsairs in Malta 1747-1798. Through the power of the written word, this book brings to life the stories of swashbuckling, rum guzzling, profit making corsairs. The adventure-filled lives that unfolded in Malta are retold in the pages of this book, uncovering the lighter and darker side of this most famous economy. The ships that took to sea brought back not only the riches of the levant, but also enslaved men, women and children along the way. This dark trade contributed greatly to the shaping of contemporary Malta and is rife with tales of those who made Malta rich by enslaving other human beings, fuelled by an array of foods including pasta, capons and chocolate.

Written by Liam Gauci, this book is another instalment by the same author to deliver to the reader what truly came to pass in the small sea state of Malta in the 18th century. So grab a book and walk up to the majestic fortresses curated

by Heritage Malta, for a firsthand experiences of the tales recounted in the publication. Visit Fort St Angelo at the tip of Birgu. A Quality-Assured site that once held within its walls the corsair Guglielmo Lorenzi, arrested for capturing illicit goods. Gauci’s book tells us that whilst arrested in the Fort, Lorenzi was fast becoming the talk of the town and the Mediterranean itself, even garnering the interest of Catherine the Great. His dandy lifestyle, smoking cigars from amber cigar holders, and wearing the most beautiful of damask house coats, makes for some interesting reading. He would also eventually own a parrot, making him your typical Hollywood sea captain.

i Au th or Li am Gaunuca rt fo o te M or

Fo r t St An ge lo , Bi

Th e Gr an d.M ast er ’s Pa lac e,

r gu

Val let ta

Whilst at Fort St Angelo, look out from the ramparts towards Senglea, across Galley Creek where the pages of this new book recount how Marianna Picasso, the wife of a corsair captain, enjoyed some down time with two of her husband’s ‘friends’, singing and drinking wine in the middle of the harbour on a Maltese dgħajsa. Which incidentally any discerning tourist can still rent out today to cross over to Valletta.

Should you be tempted, a brisk trip across the most splendid of harbours will bring you ashore in Valletta, the capital of Christian corsairing. No visit there is complete without a stop at the Grand Master’s Palace, home to the de facto prince of Malta that licensed these ships. The Grand Master gave the corsairs generous tax benefits. He claimed 10% of their profits; the rest was shared among pious investors. A visit to this Palace is a must. Newly refurbished, this state-of-the-art museum houses numerous treasures including weapons, paintings and portraits of the Grand Masters of Malta. Be sure to gaze into the age-old faces of these statesmen that attracted corsairs from all over the world, making Malta home to Englishmen, Frenchmen, Russians, Spaniards, Greeks and Slavs, all aspiring to be the most formidable privateers in the Mediterranean.

The story of corsairs in Malta is gleaned from every page of this new Heritage Malta publication. The various museums open to the public will bring the pages to life, but no visit to Malta would be complete without a taste of the local gastronomy. A chapter dedicated to the typical food aboard reminds us that a soothing cup of coffee, a sweet almond biscuit, and a hearty plate of pasta were all part of the corsair’s way of life.

So grab a copy of Liam Gauci’s book Morte o Fortuna, visit the sites and rekindle your corsairing fervour finished off with a sumptuous lunch that only Valletta can offer. And don’t forget to raise a glass to the once famous corsairs of Malta!

@VisitMalta

Valletta

Get ready for a jaw-dropping spectacle at the 2025 Malta International Fireworks Festival! From April 22 to April 30, more than 85 local and international teams will light up the skies with breathtaking displays.

The festival kicks off at Grand Harbour on April 22, with teams competing in various categories. The excitement continues on April 25 at the same venue before moving to Nadur, Gozo, on April 26.

The grand finale on April 30 at Grand Harbour marks the 21st anniversary of Malta’s EU membership. Expect an unforgettable night featuring last year’s champions, Għaqda tanNar Kerċem, along with a stunning fusion of fireworks and tech that will illuminate the historic harbour.

For the first time, the festival will also feature performances from band clubs across Malta, blending pyrotechnic artistry with local cultural heritage. Don’t miss this explosive celebration!

@VisitMalta

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FASHION

Words by

Alexandra Alden Alexandra is a Maltese singer/songwriter and former X Factor Malta judge, based in the Netherlands and Malta. Her life spent touring as a musician has allowed her to explore many corners of the world.

From runway to runway

Fashion design duo Charles & Ron have accessorised the national carrier’s uniforms, giving the crew’s elegant attire a refresh as they seek inspiration from the island’s heritage to tailor-make the airline's new look.

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Photo: Anton Bell. Ron and Charles van Maarschalkerweerd Borg of C&R on the runway.

FASHION

When passengers board a KM Malta Airlines flight, they'll be greeted by cabin crew sporting elegant new accessories that reflect both Maltese heritage and contemporary design sensibilities.

These sophisticated additions come courtesy of Charles & Ron, one of Malta's foremost fashion houses, which has been entrusted with breathing new life into the airline's visual identity.

A MALTESE LEGACY TAKING FLIGHT For Charles & Ron, this collaboration represents more than just a design project. "It's an honour," Ron reflects. "As a brand, we've always embraced Malta and taken our history and origins on our journey. Being part of the legacy of the airline is absolutely a part of this story."

The decision to engage a local fashion house for this important visual refresh speaks volumes about KM Malta Airlines' commitment to showcasing home-grown talent.

"This has happened in the past, and it's refreshing that local designers are being asked and incorporated into the home-grown look. This is how we can promote the country and push talent,” Ron observes.

"We were given a design brief, keeping in mind that these accessories are accompanying the existing uniforms," Ron notes. The range includes ties, scarves, handbags, belts and hats – all created to work around them, with different scarf and tie designs to distinguish between pilots, cabin crew and in-flight managers.

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HERITAGE MEETS CONTEMPORARY DESIGN At the heart of the new designs is Malta's most recognisable symbol – the eight-pointed Maltese cross.

"It's the most iconic symbol of the island, instantly recognised in other countries," Ron explains. This emblem features prominently in the graphic elements of the accessories, creating an immediate visual connection to Malta's heritage.

While preserving the airline's traditional navy and red colour scheme, C&R have introduced a fresh light blue, with a tinge of grey, which Ron describes as a beautiful “sky colour”. This thoughtful addition complements the existing palette while representing the airline's primary domain.

The new accessories balance aesthetic appeal with practical considerations. The traditional square scarves and men's ties feature similar patterns, creating a cohesive look across the crew, while the updated navy blue and red hats offer a "fresh look" to the whole ensemble.

Special attention has been paid to functionality, with the new handbag designed to be "slightly larger than what they had before”, making it more practical for crew members as they go about their duties.

This consideration reflects the designer duo’s understanding that airline uniforms must serve both style and substance and that, often, practical needs can go unmet.

Photos: Shaun Spiteri.

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FINDING THE BALANCE While researching their approach, Charles & Ron looked to other airlines for inspiration but remained firmly anchored in Malta's identity. They noted the contrast between the avantgarde designs adopted by some carriers and Malta's more traditional approach, aiming to "find the middle ground" that prioritises wearability and comfort.

The result is a design that Ron describes as "uncomplicated, simple and pleasing", yet effective in brightening the current uniforms. The carefully crafted accessories feature various renditions of the Maltese cross, creating visual interest without overwhelming the overall look.

LOOKING AHEAD “For the team at C&R, it is both an honour and a privilege to be entrusted with the creation of the new accessory designs for KM Malta Airlines. These carefully crafted embellishments are designed to complement the existing uniforms, infusing a vibrant new dimension into the crew's appearance," Ron continues.

So, as you settle into your seat on this KM Malta Airlines flight, take a moment to notice the elegant accessories worn by your cabin crew.

Look closely and you'll spot the iconic eight-pointed Maltese cross woven into their design. This is an ode and a tribute to Malta’s rich heritage, reimagined through the contemporary vision of the celebrated Charles & Ron fashion house.

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URNA MALTA AT THE LONDON DESIGN BIENNALE 2025

A place of memory.

A conversation between stone, time, and ritual.

URNA reshapes how we think about remembrance, tradition, and space.

Join us in London and experience Malta’s thought-provoking installation—where design meets reflection.

Discover more at artscouncil.mt URNA is curated by Andrew Borg Wirth and the team includes architects Anthony Bonnici and Thomas Mifsud from Ebejer Bonnici, Tanil Raif, Art Director Matthew Attard Navarro from AN.CC, photographer Anne Immelé and film maker Stephanie Sant.

URNA is the Malta pavilion at London Design Biennale commissioned by Arts Council Malta and made possible through support from Halmann Vella, Gasan Foundation, Embassy of France in Malta, Malta Enterprise, Deloitte Foundation, Visit Malta and all other partners.

5th — 29th June 2025 Somerset House, London Photo Credit: Thomas Mifsud

Get tickets at londondesignbiennale.com

ACTION

Words by

Seawater Society Charters

The perfect base for

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just exploring the world of boating, after a relaxing day at sea, or an adventurous week-long voyage, Malta offers a variety of charter options to suit anyone’s needs. Here’s why the Maltese Islands are a premier destination for yacht charters and why they should be at the top of your sailing it inerary in the Med. Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta stands as a beacon for sailors and yacht enthusiasts from around the globe.

With its remarkable location, exceptional marinas, breathtaking coastline and rich cultural offerings, it is undoubtedly the ideal base for your yacht charter adventure.

One of the most captivating destinations for yacht charters in the Med, it provides an ideal backdrop for both seasoned sailors and those looking to dip their toes into the world of sailing.

The opportunity to explore neighbouring islands, indulge in exquisite dining and experience vibrant nightlife makes Malta a well-rounded destination for an unforgettable holiday.

Whether you're sailing with friends, family, or embarking on a solo adventure, chartering a yacht in Malta allows you to experience the beauty and charm of this Mediterranean gem at your own pace.

Marina di Valletta.

Yacht Charter A STRATEGIC LOCATION Malta's geographical position at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea offers an unparalleled starting point for exploring the region's treasures. Situated between the alluring coasts of Sicily and Italy, it provides easy access to some of the Mediterranean's most sought-after destinations. This central location ensures that your sailing adventures can be diverse and enriching, while keeping your journey within the captivating waters of Malta.

WORLD-CLASS MARINAS One of the standout features of Malta is its array of world-class marinas. Facilities such as Marina di Valletta, Portomaso and Mġarr Marina offer top-notch amenities and services, ensuring that every aspect of your sailing experience is catered to. These marinas not only provide secure mooring for your yacht, but also feature exceptional restaurants and bars attached to them, creating the perfect setting to unwind after a day on the water. The convenience of these facilities allows you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying your time on the water and indulging in delightful dining experiences..

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A STUNNING COASTLINE Malta’s coastline is nothing short of spectacular, making it a sailor’s paradise. Featuring crystal-clear waters, secluded bays and rugged cliffs, the island presents an idyllic setting for exploration. The northern coast boasts some of Malta's most picturesque beaches, such as Golden Bay and Mellieħa Bay, where visitors can bask in the sun or swim in the tranquil waters. The southern coast is characterised by charming fishing villages like Marsaxlokk and Marsascala, where you can experience the authentic Maltese lifestyle. The scenic beauty of the coastline is complemented by numerous historical sites and natural wonders, making it an explorer's dream.

SNORKELLING, PADDLEBOARDING AND KAYAKING For those who wish to delve deeper into the aquatic wonders of Malta, the islands are a snorkeller’s and scuba diver’s haven. With an abundance of dive sites suitable for all skill levels, its clear waters reveal an underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life, as well as sunken shipwrecks. In addition to diving, charter experiences can include a variety of fun water activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking. These sea toys come along with your charter and provide a fantastic way to explore the coastline, get some exercise and have fun in the sun.

Whether you’re gliding over calm waters or snorkelling among colourful fish, these activities enhance the excitement of the voyage.

ISLAND-HOPPING ADVENTURES An archipelago, composed of three main islands, each boasting its own unique charm and attractions, is waiting to be explored: Gozo is known for its serene atmosphere and stunning landscapes; Comino is a small, uninhabited island, famed for its spectacular Blue Lagoon. In Malta, make it a point to visit the natural wonder of the Blue Grotto, a series of six enchanting caves, located on the southern coast. The area is perfect for boat tours, allowing you to explore the caves and their stunning rock formations up close.

PROXIMITY TO OTHER MEDITERRANEAN DESTINATIONS In addition to its own captivating attractions, Malta's strategic location makes it an excellent jumping-off point for exploring other Mediterranean gems. Just a short sail away from Sicily, Italy, Greece and Croatia, Malta allows you to create a customised sailing itinerary that suits your interests. You can easily plan excursions to nearby islands or coastal towns, enriching your overall experience in the Mediterranean. This accessibility makes Malta not just a destination but a launching pad for a broader exploration of the region's diverse cultures and stunning landscapes.

CULINARY DELIGHTS AND NIGHTLIFE After a day spent sailing and exploring, unwind and enjoy Malta’s vibrant culinary scene and a nightlife that is second to none. With diverse dining options, you can indulge in traditional Maltese cuisine, or savour international flavours at numerous restaurants. From fresh seafood caught that morning to local specialties, the culinary experiences in Malta are truly delightful. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner or a lively night out with friends, Malta's bars and clubs provide an energetic atmosphere that is hard to resist. Many venues also

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feature live music, showcasing local talent and adding to the island's vibrant nightlife.

TAILORED CHARTER OPTIONS Malta offers a variety of charter options to suit every sailor's needs, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water or an adventurous week-long journey.

Day charters are perfect for those who want to enjoy a taste of sailing without committing to a longer itinerary.

They allow you to explore Malta's stunning coastline, hidden coves and picturesque bays, providing a refreshing escape for a day.

Week-long charters are for those who wish to immerse themselves fully in the sailing experience, offering the chance to explore Malta's islands, beaches and many hidden gems. You'll have ample time to sail, swim, snorkel and visit local attractions at a leisurely pace.

If you’re an experienced sailor, a bareboat charter allows you to take command of your own yacht. You can navigate the waters at your own pace, chart your course and enjoy the freedom of sailing wherever your heart desires.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, skippered charters provide the option to hire a professional skipper. With an expert at the helm, you can sit back, relax and soak in the beauty of the Maltese coastline while a knowledgeable guide ensures a smooth sailing experience.

Experience the beauty of Malta on an evening sunset cruise. This option allows you to enjoy stunning views of the illuminated coastline as the sun goes down.

With the allure of the Mediterranean at your fingertips, set sail for a journey of discovery, relaxation and adventure in Malta’s picturesque waters. Whether you’re basking in the sun on a secluded beach, diving into the crystal-clear sea, or enjoying the vibrant local culture, Malta promises an unforgettable sailing experience that will bring you back time and time again.

For daily or weekly charters contact: seawatersocietycharters.com hello@seawatersocietycharters.com (+356) 9942 8182

PREPARING FOR YOUR SAILING ADVENTURE Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind: Consider the time of year you plan to visit, as the Mediterranean climate offers warm summers ideal for sailing.

It’s also wise to create a flexible itinerary, allowing for spontaneous detours to explore hidden gems along the coastline.

Don’t forget to pack essentials such as sunscreen, swimwear and comfortable clothing suitable for life on the water.

TIMELESS, WITH A TWIST Rolling Geeks offers an exciting, new way to explore the Three Cities.

Imagine cruising through this stunning open-air museum in a sleek, fun, eco-friendly, easy-to-drive car, following a cutting-edge GPSguided route to explore at your own pace, while on board commentary in your chosen language brings the surrounding rich history to life.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique adventure, Rolling Geeks is the ultimate sightseeing experience. Affordable and flexible, it offers a fresh, unforgettable perspective on Malta’s beauty. (+356) 7995 0695

rolling-geeks.com

VALLETTA WATERFRONT Triq il-Vittmi Furjaniżi tal-Gwerra, Floriana Discover this hidden gem within Grand Harbour, where history meets modern indulgence. Enjoy panoramic views, exciting activities and delectable dining experiences along this promenade. Savour Chinese, American, Mediterranean, sushi, or local cuisine in beautifully refurbished 1752-built stores, or dine al fresco by the water's edge. Just a short walk from Valletta, experience fun and relaxation away from the crowds. Don't miss Colour Fest this April, an annual event celebrating spring with free activities and entertainment for all ages, bringing the Valletta Waterfront to life. vallettawaterfront vallettawaterfront.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Words by

Adriana Bishop

Meet Malta’s First Wine Ambassador Malta has been producing its unique wines for almost 3,000 years, and yet, they are still relatively unknown on the global market. Its wine ambassador, Josef Bonello, explains how this fledgling industry has survived against all odds.

If you want to taste some Maltese wine, you are going to have to take a journey beyond your local supermarket, all the way to Malta. As sacrifices go, that’s quite bearable, if you don’t mind all that warm sunshine.

It may come as a surprise that Malta not only has a wine industry but has had one for thousands of years. But really, it shouldn’t be surprising given that the Maltese Islands sit right in the middle of what is considered to be the most desirable climate for wine-growing – the Mediterranean.

What is surprising is that a wine industry of sorts

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has survived at all throughout the centuries despite history throwing myriad other priorities in its way.

With an annual production of around 1.5 million bottles from around 12 wineries and 420 hectares of vineyards, Malta’s wine industry is best described as boutique. The rest of the 12 million bottles consumed annually on the islands are all imported. Of the 38 indigenous grape varieties among the hundreds grown on the islands that local botanist John Borg had identified in 1922, only two continue bearing fruit today – the darkskinned Ġellewża and the white Girgentina, which

ENTERTAINMENT

In an “ingenious” marketing ploy, Maltese grapes were considered “better for eating” while still being used for wine production, thus serving two markets simultaneously, whichever paid better. At the time, Gozo was the primary wine producer, exporting its wine to Malta. However, the burgeoning wine industry on the islands consisted mainly of imports, and by 1779, Malta was consuming 150,000 barrels per year, including “tutto il vino di Sicilia”.

As wine had a higher alcohol content at that time, the well-heeled would water it down, but the poorer people would simply add a drop of wine to their water to disinfect it and mitigate its bad taste. Only the German Knights were known to drink wine neat.

The indigenous wine industry was even further curtailed in the 18th century when farmers switched to growing cotton, destroying swathes of vineyards and olive groves to make way for this new crop.

Josef Bonello.

By the time World War II bombed Malta to within an inch of its life, all able-bodied men were drafted to help in the defence of the island and wine production certainly didn’t feature as a priority. Meanwhile, in France soldiers were sent to protect their precious vineyards.

produce easy-drinking, charming, uncomplicated, friendly wines. Or, as Malta’s first wine ambassador Josef Bonello put it: “They produce wines that reflect island life.”

The two oldest surviving Maltese wineries were established in 1907 and 1919, at a time when entering the wine production business would have been considered “brave”. By the 1970s, Maltese wine was subjected to a price order, which made it cheaper than car battery fluid and, if truth be told, the low price (though imposed) reflected the quality of the product.

But earlier this year, the wine world was all atwitter with the historic revelation that 10 indigenous grape varieties have been (re-)discovered and identified in Malta following four years of research conducted by the Centre for Viticulture and Oenology within the Agriculture Ministry.

It’s too soon to say if any of these grape varieties could potentially produce wine-making grapes. “The next steps will be laborious. They need more cuttings to plant the vines. They will then grow the vines for three to four years to understand how they are responding to modern climate conditions and assess the potential for quality wine. Even if we succeed in only one of the varieties, it will be historic,” says Josef.

The oldest reference to a wine industry in Malta dates back 2,700 years. A Phoenician shipwreck discovered outside Xlendi Bay in Gozo contained a number of locally made clay amphorae, which were used for wine, indicating there was a full-scale wine industry on the Maltese Islands, including production, storage and export. “We had a very early and a very good start in the industry,” Josef points out.

But history had other plans, and when you are fighting for survival, growing vines is suddenly not top of the agenda.

Following six centuries of affluent Roman influence, Malta almost lost its viticulture completely during the 200 years of Arab occupation, when wine production slowed down to a trickle, kept alive by some farmers purely for home consumption. Then, when the wine-loving Knights of St John landed in Malta in 1530, they started importing the finest wines from around the world, even as far afield as South Africa.

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Photo: Dave Gration. Punic wine amphorae found off Xlendi.

However, it was thanks to the resilience of local producers, who overcame countless challenges – not least the lifting of all levies with Malta’s entry into the EU, which opened the doors to a river of wine imports – that the industry survived at all and is now thriving.

working morning – definitely not wine o’clock in my book.

But Josef quickly points out that, actually, the best time of day to taste wine is in the early morning when the palate and the senses are fresh. In fact, most wine tastings in the industry are held right after breakfast.

“We were just in survival mode at the time,” explains Josef. “It is true that in the 1970s and 1980s, the quality of our wines was nothing to write home about, but it is thanks to that period that we still have an industry to talk about today.”

As Malta’s first wine ambassador, which he defines as an “extremely exciting role”, Josef is acutely aware that he not only needs to promote local wines to the international market but also, and firstly, to local consumers. “We live in a unique market, which does not support local product. Part of my role is to galvanise the confidence of the Maltese drinker in Maltese wines.

Our hope is the youngsters. They are not subject to this approach because they are ready and very happy to consume anything that is Maltese, be it music, fashion, wine or food, and celebrate it fully.”

Ironically, while Maltese wines are now entering the global wine stage and even winning international awards, they are yet to win the hearts of Maltese consumers. Restaurant wine lists are typically populated by imported wines, with very few local varieties on offer.

“We produce a unique wine in the world. It may not be the best, but nobody produces the best wine. However, ours is unique because you can only find it here,” Josef insists.

In fact, it can be so unique that a Chardonnay grown and produced by one winery can be distinctly different from a Chardonnay grown and produced in a winery just 2km away.

Josef explains that another reason why we used to look down on Ġellewża and Girgentina wines was because of the perception that fuller, more powerful wines were better. “We attributed quality to power, but quality does not depend on power and density. To judge quality in wine, you need to look at balance; the impact on the palate has to be balanced. Since Ġellewża and Girgentina couldn’t give us these wines in the past, and we knew they were easy drinking, we looked down on them because they were not powerful enough.

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With a growing global interest in indigenous varieties from small, exotic regions, Malta can now promote the versatility and quality of its own Ġellewża and Girgentina wines.

“Malta is not known for its wine, but now we can tell that story,” Josef says. “Wine is such a wonderful product.

It changes; it moulds itself around people. Wineries produce wines that are a reflection of who we are. This is why wine is so remarkably fascinating.”

So, which is the wine ambassador’s favourite Maltese wine? He scrunches up his nose. “It’s like asking me which of my children is my favourite.”

“Today, people are moving away from heavy, big wines to softer, easier drinking ones. They are producing wines that are lower in alcohol, not too complicated, refreshing, charming. This is what people are looking for. Now, suddenly Ġellewża and Girgentina are right up people’s alley.”

Malta has such an ideal climatic profile, Josef points out. “But we also have such qualified winemakers, who can produce wines that are typically local because of the indigenous varieties that can mix well with many other grapes, all locally grown, offering a versatility and richness in styles. They excel in producing the highest level of wines Malta has ever produced.”

Our wine chat is, sadly, not happening in a wine bar with a glass of red in hand, but over Zoom, bang in the middle of a

Do you want to know more about Maltese wines? Contact the wine ambassador on josef.bonello@visitmalta.com

FOOD

Words by

Elizabeth Jones

The reinvention of a culinary master As we enter a new season, so too does Fifty Nine Republic – a gastronomic institution with a reputation for serving a flawless dining experience, surrounded by meticulous design, right in the heart of Valletta.

Walking down the stairs of Fifty Nine Republic, you feel a distinctly old-world, historic grace and elegance, yet there s a modernity and playfulness that can be expected of international dining standards.

Established in 2017, it’s been four years since this award-winning culinary master, known for its comforting food, leading design and relaxed but exquisite service, moved to its current location on St George’s Square, directly opposite the President’s Palace in Valletta, boasting an excepetional outdoor terrace with unsurpassable surroundings.

The restaurant has created a recognisable and distinct personality, with a reputation for charming guests. Whether it’s their first rendezvous, or they are regulars, every visit is special.

Driven by a desire to be the best it can, Fifty Nine Republic embarked on a complete interior redesign earlier this year. Now, works have been carried out and are being unveiled with much excitement this month.

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“We take sophistication seriously, so our guests don’t have to… They are here to relax, feel welcome and have an unforgettable experience. We want every detail to feel luxurious, but still very relaxed, comfortable, grounded and authentic,” says Chef Patron at Fifty Nine Republic, Maria Sammut, whose mantra is that good food need not be fussy.

The restaurant’s determination to deliver on this is clear in its overwhelmingly beautiful additions that now span the dining area, bar and bathrooms, with great precision and care taken in sourcing materials for the refurbishment.

Deep greens and rich American walnut flow gracefully throughout the historic interior, while an Art Deco-style traditional green leather sofa, with linear detailing, wraps around two walls of the dining area, offering an air of comfort and intimacy to the space.

Patrons will be delighted to find the iconic pink tones are still the leading lady, with soft velvet upholstery and a new collection of chinaware, proudly showcasing the brand's original illustrations.

Already a magnet for cocktail connoisseurs, evening drinks will now be served alongside fluted Shanghai marble adorning the bar, while guests will also find Indian green marble laid in a herringbone pattern across the floor.

Photos: Alan Carville.

Those with a penchant for restaurant design know the bathroom is the cherry on the cake. The detail must also shine here… and shine it does! The makeover continues into the bathrooms, with marble-clad walls, column sinks and accents that will certainly become the setting of many a selfie, having a must-post-immediately gram-worthy backdrop.

“We stripped everything right back, and this, of course, meant navigating around the historical nature and age of the building, being over 500 years old," explains Andrew Alexander, owner of Fifty Nine Republic. “It presented some limitations in terms of our design freedom, but in another sense, it's an important part of our timeless atmosphere. So we blended the old with the new, managing to implement the vision in just 21 days.

“The reactions are always rewarding.

We set out on a mission to refresh the restaurant, but keeping it welcoming and comfortable was a high priority. We hope our patrons will be as thrilled as we are.”

The restaurant's website, complete with its trademark style, features a quote from Marilyn Monroe that feels particularly fitting: "Nothing lasts forever, so live it up, drink it down, laugh it off." This captures the lightness of Fifty Nine Republic, and its larger-than-life presence, synonymous with Monroe herself.

It is also a reminder of how longevity is achieved through constant renewal. Fifty Nine Republic’s knack for continuously discovering new ways to keep the experience fresh and exciting gives a glimpse into its long-term vision.

A must on any visit to Malta, check out fiftyninerepublic.com for reservations, or find the team on: 59republic Fifty Nine Republic | Valletta (+356) 7926 4613

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FOOD

Words by

Adriana Bishop

Easter sweet treats Is it even Easter in Malta without figolli? This oversized almond-stuffed biscuit has been the de facto Easter Sunday treat long before the invasion of chocolate eggs.

As Easter approaches, the scent of freshly baked figolli fills homes across Malta, bringing together families to celebrate both tradition and creativity. This iconic Maltese almondfilled biscuit, historically crafted in the shapes of people, animals and symbols of faith, holds a special place in the hearts of the Maltese.

everything Maltese, merging food, culture and art in one delicious creation.

For chef and food stylist Manuel Aquilina, figolli are more than just a sweet treat – they’re a cherished part of his childhood memories, and now, a beautiful tradition shared with his son, Santiago.

For many, the heart of the figolla lies in its symbolism. In her book, The Food and Cookery of Malta and Gozo, Helen Caruana Galizia explains that traditional shapes represent different aspects of life and faith. The shapes of men, women, fish (a symbol of God), the basket (a symbol of plenty, or fertility) and the lamb were once common, with the egg placed in the centre of a figure representing fertility and rebirth.

Growing up, Manuel was the youngest of three boys, often found in the kitchen with his mother, a passionate cook who spent hours preparing family meals. "I would be with her, making figolli and decorating them," Manuel recalls.

This process was an exciting and memorable experience; one that he now shares with his own adpoted son, adding to a legacy that spans generations.

Manuel’s recipe blends traditional methods, passed down from his mother, with his own modern touches. The result?

A figolla that’s rich, moist and fragrant with orange and lemon zest. “The pastry should be soft and buttery,” he explains, “with textures of vanilla and orange zest. A good figolla has you coming back for more and I believe my recipe does just that.”

But it’s the decoration that sets Manuel’s creations apart.

Rather than sticking to the typical shapes like hearts, fish or lambs, Manuel elevates the art of figolla decoration by incorporating elements of Maltese culture. He crafts intricate designs inspired by the luzzu (traditional Maltese boat), the Knights of St John, door knockers, the Maltese festa, the Selmun Red Tower, and even the ornate details of Maltese tiles. His figolli are a vibrant celebration of

“You need to dedicate a lot of time and patience to create these designs, but the satisfaction of the end result is extremely rewarding,” says Manuel.

"As children, we used to be intrigued by the egg right in the middle of the man or woman’s tummy," Helen writes. It used to be a real, hardboiled egg, painted with vegetable colouring, before chocolate eggs became a thing.

But where did this delicious tradition come from? The earliest mention of figolli was documented in 1660 – a testament to the pastry’s long-standing presence in Maltese culture.

They most likely gained popularity after sugar overtook honey as a sweet treat and became a staple ingredient of Maltese recipes.

Figolli have ancient origins in Sicily, where almond pastries remain ubiquitous in every café, and Malta’s connection to the Italian island’s cultural history is well documented. The name itself is said to derive from the Sicilian word figulina, which means shape.

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Doors of Malta figolli by Stephanie Borg.

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Manuel Aquilina's figolli.

Food was always linked to religious beliefs, which would dictate what what could be eaten and when, especially during the 40 days of Lent, when people were not allowed to have any food derived from animals. So sweet desserts such as figolli were an even more appreciated and highly anticipated reward after weeks of fasting and penitence.

Almonds play a significant role in Malta’s culinary history. While not indigenous to the islands, the sweet almond tree still grows today, albeit not so abundantly. Almonds have been embraced in Maltese cuisine since ancient times. And it’s this very almond that gives figolli their rich flavour and texture.

While the almond-based recipe remains the perennial favourite and undisputed original, some chefs are beginning to experiment with other varieties, including pistachio and even peanut butter filling encased in a chocolate pastry. It is also possible to make a gluten-free version.

Manuel himself has experimented with a date and orange filling, which is lactose, nut and dairy free, as well as a moreish chocolate and hazelnut filling.

Award-winning designer Stephanie Borg is also adding a new twist to the traditional figolla this Easter, reimagining it as a mini Maltese door, a symbol of welcome, connection and the heart of Maltese life.

Already iconic in their own right, with their bright primary colours and brass knockers, Maltese doors are like “human portraits” of traditional local architecture, as Stephanie herself describes them.

Better known for her colourful paintings, silk scarves and other homeware, all featuring Maltainspired colours and designs, Stephanie first created her own interpretation of the figolla in 2018 in the form of a colourful Maltese floor tile.

Her latest reincarnation, produced in collaboration with the catering company Busy Bee, and made of Avola almonds, is even more special because of the symbolism behind it. “A figolla is not a keepsake; it is a treat meant to be enjoyed and passed around.

Shaping it into a door makes it even more symbolic.

As it travels to different homes, it carries a message of hospitality, togetherness and tradition. For me, it’s all about bringing Maltese culture to the Easter tablescape,” Stephanie explains.

So, the next time you find yourself savouring a bite of figolla, know that you’re enjoying a piece of Malta’s rich cultural tapestry, woven together with generations of tradition, creativity and love.

DID YOU KNOW?

It seems that the earliest visual representation of figolli in Malta is a painting by Pasquale Leonetti in 1762, part of a sumptuous mural that adorns the refectory of Casa della Madonna di Manresa in Floriana, better known as the Archbishop’s Curia.

The refectory is considered a jewel of mural art, depicting biblical episodes with food displayed in the bottom sections of each painting. In Leonetti’s work, the figolla is ring-shaped and decorated with pretty sugared icing and eggs.

The Gozitan linguist and historian Giovanni Agius de Soldanis, writing at around the same time, describes the fegkulla as a dough figure baked in the shape of a male or a female holding an egg, which indicates that the pastry was already being prepared in different shapes.

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FOOD

How to make Manuel's

traditional Maltese figolla Makes 3 large or 7 small figolli INGREDIENTS For the pastry 1kg plain flour 2 heaped tsp baking powder 450g chilled butter, diced 300g icing sugar 6 egg yolks 2 tsp vanilla extract Zest of 2 lemons and 2 oranges Juice of 2 oranges

For the filling 850g pure ground almonds 650g icing sugar 6 egg whites 2 tsp vanilla extract Finely grated zest of 3 lemons 100g chopped almonds or pistachios (optional)

For the royal icing 500g icing sugar 2 egg whites Juice of half a lemon

METHOD Start by making the pastry, preparing it in two batches of 500g each. Place the flour, butter, baking powder, icing sugar and zests into the bowl of a food processor and blitz to a crumb. Add the orange juice, vanilla and egg yolks and blitz to a soft pastry. Chill for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, make the almond filling by blitzing together the ground almonds, icing sugar, egg whites, vanilla and lemon zest to a paste. Stir in the chopped nuts if using.

Roll out the pastry and, using metal figolli shapes (or giant cookie cutters), cut out two shapes for each figolla – a top and a bottom. Spread a fairly thick layer of almond filling on one of the pastry shapes, leaving an edge free for sealing.

Moisten the edge with water, then press the second pastry cut-out on top and seal all the edges.

Bake in a pre-heated oven at 180°C for 35-40 minutes depending on their size. Place them on a rack to cool. Once completely cold, decorate them with coloured icing, piped royal icing or simply with melted chocolate. Don’t forget to press a chocolate egg into the centre.

TA’ MARIJA – YOUR GASTRO MALTESE KITCHEN Constitution Street, Mosta Established in 1964, Ta’ Marija is one of Malta’s most historically rich restaurants.

Enjoy its Folklore Dinner shows on Wednesdays and Fridays for some Maltese liveliness. (Transport can be arranged.) The gastro menu is bursting with creativity and local traditions, stamped with Ta’ Marija’s signature flavours. From appetizers and platters to traditional homemade ravioli, Ta' Marija brings Maltese favourites to the table in a unique way. Mains include a popular rabbit selection, fish and shellfish in season, local meats and the famous Whisper chargrilled steaks. (+356) 2143 4444 tamarija.com TamarijaRestaurantMostaMalta

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MUŻA RESTAURANT Merchants Street, Valletta If you're looking for an extraordinary dining experience in the capital city, book a table at MUŻA Restaurant. Situated in the picturesque courtyard of an old auberge, MUŻA provides a cosy, laidback ambiance, perfect for a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends. The menu is bursting with fresh, local ingredients, and the knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect wine to complement your meal. (+356) 7979 0900 MUZARestaurantValletta

muzarestaurant

OSTRICA 66, Church Street, St Paul’s Bay Discover Ostrica at Gillieru, where tradition meets innovation on the shores of St Paul’s Bay. Located within the iconic Gillieru Harbour Hotel, a landmark with over a century of history, it celebrates the finest local ingredients from fresh fish to dry-aged meats, prepared with a modern twist. Its talented chefs craft each dish with care, offering an unforgettable dining experience.

With stunning views of the bay and a tranquil atmosphere, Ostrica invites you to indulge in Malta’s rich culinary heritage. (+356) 7902 2371 ostrica.mt ostrica

ostrica

BOTTEGIN PALAZZO XARA Triq San Pawl, Rabat Tucked away in the heart of Rabat, just a short stroll from the historic Mdina, Bottegin Palazzo Xara offers an authentic Maltese dining experience. Situated within a local band club, the cosy bistro provides a welcoming atmosphere, while the peaceful Mediterranean Courtyard offers a tranquil setting for al fresco dining. The extensive menu features everything from hearty breakfasts to pizzas, pastas, grills and traditional local dishes. With soft jazz music and a vibrant, social atmosphere, it's the perfect place to dine like a local. (+356) 7945 4538 bottegin.com.mt

botteginpalazzoxara

botteginpalazzoxara

GROTTO TAVERN Misraħ Ii-Paroċċa, Rabat The Michelin-recommended Grotto Tavern restaurant offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Rabat. Nestled in a cave, the ambience is enchanting and romantic. Grotto Tavern’s chefs expertly craft tasting menus that showcase their passion for local and seasonal ingredients. Guests can sample innovative dishes by indulging in its fiveor seven-course experience. A visit to Grotto Tavern is a must for those seeking fine dining with a twist. (+356) 7945 3258 grottotavern.net

grottotavernrestaurant

thegrottotavern

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ANDREW’S BAR St George’s Bay, St Julian’s Andrew's Bar is a freshly re-opened venue where fun is not optional, good food is compulsory, and building great memories is essential. Steeped in legacy, this is, in fact, Malta's oldest bar! The place is a go-to, and you're simply going to love indulging in the extensive menu, with a great local cuisine focus, serving traditional Maltese and modern dishes, such as pizza or pasta. Ideal for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is also perfect for a quiet drink or two. (+356) 2138 8031 info@andrewsbar.com

TA' KOLINA 151, Tower Road, Sliema Ta’ Kolina is a quaint, family-run restaurant on Tower Road (one of Sliema’s most popular spots). Open since 1974, it is a typical Maltese restaurant with a traditional Maltese interior and décor. A set menu comprising of traditional Maltese food offers a choice of starter, main dish, dessert and coffee for €27 per person. There is also a vibrant à la carte menu and daily display of fresh local fish. Dining here is a true Maltese experience for a reasonable price. Ta' Kolina is open for both lunch and dinner from 12 to 10.30pm. (+356) 2133 5106 www.takolina.mt

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From megaliths to forts, shipwrecks to sharks, catacombs to palaces.

Something to interest everyone.

This is your one-stop shop to access the very best Heritage Malta has to offer.

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FOOD

Words by

Passaġġi

Mediterranean & genuine Born into an Italo-Brazilian family, Mauro Papaccio, executive chef at Il Pirata Mellieħa Bay restaurant, blends international influences into his cuisine, with a particular focus on fusing the traditions of his roots. For him, cooking is not about perfection; it's about passion.

WHEN AND WHERE DID YOUR PASSION FOR GASTRONOMY START? It was born at home in Naples from a young age.

WHO DID YOU LEARN MOST FROM IN THE KITCHEN? Certainly, from my mother and grandmother.

WHAT DO YOU OWE TO YOUR ITALIAN AND TO YOUR BRAZILIAN ROOTS RESPECTIVELY, FROM A CULINARY POINT OF VIEW? I owe a lot to Italy, and I try to carry its culinary tradition with me in every dish, no matter where I am. Brazilian cuisine, on the other hand, fascinates me with its extraordinary variety, which changes from region to region, offering a gastronomic experience that is always new and full of influences.

YOU EMBARKED ON A PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY SPECIALISING IN ITALIAN CUISINE, DEVELOPING AND REFINING YOUR SKILLS IN CITIES ACROSS ITALY. BUT WHICH PARTICULAR REGIONAL CULINARY TRADITIONS HAVE HAD THE MOST IMPACT ON YOU? Being from Campania, definitely Neapolitan cuisine.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST MILESTONE IN YOUR CAREER TO DATE? The most important milestones in my career are not those measured by awards received, but by the small, everyday moments experienced by each guest: the smile after the first bite, the wonder of discovering a new flavour, the warmth of feeling truly welcomed at the table.

Every day in the kitchen is an opportunity to create emotions, and to me, that is the true measure of success.

YOUR ALL-TIME FAVOURITE INGREDIENT AND HOW YOU USE IT BEST… Pasta has a special place in my heart. I am from Campania. I grew up eating pasta and ragù.

YOUR GO-TO MEAL TO WIN OVER FAMILY AND FRIENDS… A risotto.

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Photo: Valeria Zammit. Mauro Papaccio.

WHO COOKS AT HOME? At home, I let my wife do the cooking.

She delights me with Brazilian dishes, staying true to her roots.

YOUR FAVOURITE COMFORT FOOD… Definitely my childhood food, lasagna.

WHAT WOULD YOU NEVER SAY NO TO (FOODWISE)?

Fish!

COMPLICATED HAUTE CUISINE, OR ALLA BUONA, HOME-COOKING? Good home-cooking, with passion and love.

WHEN YOU EAT OUT, WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR? Typical local products.

THE IDEAL CUSTOMER PROFILE… Someone who is open to recommendations when it comes to choosing dishes.

WHO IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU LIKE TO COOK FOR AND WHY? Antonino Cannavacciuolo, who has been my idol since I was little. I am very inspired by his cuisine.

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WHAT DO YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WITH NO CONFIDENCE IN THE KITCHEN? Cooking is not about perfection; it's about passion. Mistakes are part of the process, and often, the best recipes emerge from them. What matters is persistence and the willingness to keep experimenting. Confidence is built with every bite and every attempt.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT SKILL TO LEAD A KITCHEN? Knowing how to coordinate a team, stay calm under pressure and convey passion are what turn a cook into a true chef.

WHERE WOULD YOU TRAVEL TO EAT, AGAIN AND AGAIN? Brazil!

YOUR IDEA OF QUINTESSENTIALLY MALTESE FOOD… For me, typical Maltese food is a blend of authentic flavours and Mediterranean traditions. Dishes such as fenek, crispy pastizzi and lampuki pie tell the story of an island rich in influences, where each ingredient has a deep connection to the land and the sea.

YOUR OWN TAKE ON A LOCAL DISH… The Maltese sausage ragù highlights the richness of the spices and the depth of the sausage’s flavour, keeping the dish simple and authentic, just as it should be.

TWO WORDS TO DESCRIBE THE MALTESE RESTAURANT SCENE… Mediterranean and genuine.

Photo: Yanis Azzopardi.

FOOD

Mauro’s

Spaghetti alla Nerano with stracciatella and red prawns SERVES 2 INGREDIENTS For the infusion 300g Gentile di Gragnano spaghetti 150g Provolone del Monaco 700g courgettes Basil, to taste 30g Parmigiano Reggiano DOP, grated Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste 30g butter 150g stracciatella 150g red prawns METHOD Wash the courgettes, trim them and cut them into thin rounds, using a mandoline. Heat the olive oil in a large pan, and when it reaches 150°C, the ideal temperature for frying, immerse the courgette slices a few at a time so as not to lower the temperature of the oil. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, until golden brown.

Once cooked, drain with a slotted spoon and place them on a tray lined with absorbent paper to remove excess oil. While cooking the

courgettes, salt them and add some basil leaves torn by hand.

Set aside.

Meanwhile, fill a tall pot with salted water to cook the spaghetti. Grate the Parmesan and Provolone del Monaco using a grater with large holes.

Cook the pasta al dente – about 6 minutes.

In a large pan, melt the butter with a pinch of pepper. Add the fried courgettes and mix them with a ladle of pasta cooking water. Sauté the courgettes for a moment, so they soften and don’t become dry.

When the spaghetti is cooked, drain it directly into the pan with the sauce, keeping the cooking water aside. Add a ladle of cooking water at a time, continuing to cook the spaghetti and stirring for about 3 minutes. Turn off the heat.

Pour in the grated Provolone del Monaco, stirring to melt it and create a creamy texture. When it has been absorbed, add the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and the remaining Provolone. Season with chopped basil and add another ladle of pasta cooking water.

Mix well, and once ready, sprinkle with ground pepper.

Serve the Spaghetti alla Nerano piping hot, completing the dish with stracciatella and red prawn tartare, seasoned with a pinch of salt and oil.

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????????

Welcome!

Merħba!

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AIRLINE NEWS

Flying High with Europe’s Freshest Fleet We’re thrilled to announce that KM Malta Airlines has been honoured with the ch-aviation Europe’s Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award 2025 and World’s 2nd Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award 2025! With an average aircraft age of just 3.36 years, our eight Airbus A320-200neo planes are soaring to new heights in efficiency and sustainability. This accolade reflects our commitment to providing you with modern, comfortable and eco-friendly journeys. Here’s to many more adventures aboard our youthful fleet!

Soaring Greener Skies with SkyBreathe®

KM Malta Airlines is excited to announce our partnership with OpenAirlines, adopting the SkyBreathe ® Fuel Efficiency platform to enhance our environmental sustainability efforts. This innovative tool empowers our team to optimise fuel consumption, reinforcing our commitment to eco-friendly aviation.

As operators of Europe’s youngest all-Airbus A320neo fleets, we're dedicated to reducing our environmental footprint. This collaboration ensures smoother, greener journeys for you, our valued passengers.

A new chapter in our airline’s identity Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications Rebecca Millo on enhancing the crew’s look with the airline’s new uniform accessories.

We’re thrilled to finally unveil the new uniform accessories we’ve been working on! Partnering with Charles & Ron – a leading Maltese designer duo known for their quality and craftsmanship – made this project even more special.

This collection was created with great care, bringing together key stakeholders to craft something that not only enhances our crew’s look but also reflects the essence of who we are.

A uniform is more than just attire; it is a core expression of an airline’s identity. It reflects our heritage, our commitment to excellence, and the deep pride our people take in their roles. Seeing our crew wear these accessories is incredibly rewarding.

As you travel with us, we hope you’ll notice and enjoy this new look, designed with the same care and dedication that define our service.

Read more about the collaboration on PG57.

Rebecca Millo.

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AIRLINE ????????

NEWS

Sun, Fitness & Island Vibes – the Mediterranean's Ultimate Fitness Festival Whether you're a competitor, a supporter, or simply looking for a fun sporting spectacle, don’t miss this exhilarating three-day fitness event that promises an adrenaline-fuelled competition, set against Malta’s breathtaking backdrop

This May, the stunning island of Malta will play host to one of the most exhilarating functional fitness events of the year. From 9th - 11th May, over 100 teams of elite and amateur athletes from overseas and Malta, will gather to push their limits in a test of strength and endurance at Pretty Bay, Birżebbuġa.

The event is the brainchild of Sarah Michelle, a Maltese fitness enthusiast living in London, who saw an opportunity to bring together the best of the UK and Malta’s fitness communities. This inaugural competition marks the beginning of what is set to become an annual celebration of athleticism in the sun.

As proud sponsors, KM Malta Airlines, along with other supporters, including VisitMalta, are thrilled to bring fitness enthusiasts closer to the action.

Whether you're a competitor, a supporter, or simply looking for a fun sporting spectacle, this three-day event promises an adrenaline-fuelled competition, set against Malta’s breathtaking backdrop.

With rigorous workouts and team challenges, programmed by Crossfit Games Athlete Will Kane, this event is designed for various levels of fitness, while

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celebrating the growing fitness community.

Beyond the competition floor, spectators can enjoy vibrant festival vibes, local hospitality and the picturesque sights that make Malta a must-visit destination.

For those flying in, KM Malta Airlines offers convenient routes, ensuring a seamless journey to this world-class event.

VisitMalta’s support further highlights the island’s commitment to positioning itself as a premier destination for sports tourism. From sun-kissed beaches to historic landmarks, visitors can combine fitness with exploration, making this an event not just for athletes, but for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the island’s charm.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the fusion of sport and scenic beauty in the heart of the Mediterranean.

The event is supported by VisitMalta & Credence Business Advisory.

Step into a world of rewards!

Your Journey, Your Rewards Discover a world of exclusive benefits with KM Rewards, the loyalty programme designed to make your travels with KM Malta Airlines even more rewarding. Every time you fly, you earn SkyBux, which can be redeemed for flights, extras and more!

Join for free today and start turning your SkyBux into unforgettable journeys.

Climb the tiers faster and unlock the exclusive perks of KM Elite – before you can say: "Ready for take-off!"

Join

KM Rewards Scan below to register

WITH KM REWARDS, YOU’LL ENJOY: Exciting rewards Seamless travel perks Exclusive offers and discounts … and much more!

Big things are coming!

We have exciting updates planned for the 2025-2026 membership year, so get ready for even more ways to enjoy KM Rewards!

Or visit kmmaltairlines.com/en/km-rewards

Download the KM Rewards mobile app

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FLIGHT INFORMATION

KM MALTA AIRLINES DIRECT FLIGHTS

Amsterdam

Berlin

London – Heathrow London – Gatwick Brussels

Düsseldorf Prague

Paris – Charles de Gaulle

Munich

Paris – Orly

Vienna Zurich

Lyon Milan – Linate

Rome – Fuminicio

Istanbul

Madrid

Catania

Malta

SUMMER SCHEDULE 2025 Mon

Tue

Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

Sun

Est. time

Amsterdam (AMS)

3hr25

Berlin (BER)

2h55

Brussels (BRU)

3h05

Catania (CTA)

0h45

Düsseldorf (DUS)

2h55

** Istanbul (IST)

2h35

London (LHR)

3h40

London (LGW)

3h20

Lyon (LYS)

2h25

Madrid (MAD)

3h00

Milan (LIN)

2h00

Munich (MUC)

2h30

Paris (CDG)

3h00

Paris (ORY)

2h55

Prague (PRG)

2h30

Rome (FCO)

1h35

Vienna (VIE)

2h20

Zurich (ZRH)

2h25

* From 1st April until 30th May 2025. Information is subject to change. ** From June 2025.

FLIGHT????????

INFORMATION

FLIGHT AND COMPANY INFORMATION INFORMAZZJONI DWAR IT-TITJIRA U L-KUMPANIJA

Welcome on board KM Malta Airlines

Merħba abbord il-KM Malta Airlines

We’re excited to have you with us and want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable flight. Here are a few important tips to keep everything smooth and safe for everyone.

Aħna ħerqanin li inti tkun magħna, u rridu nkunu żguri li jkollok titjira komda u pjaċevoli. Hawnhekk issib ftit pariri importanti biex jinżamm kollox pinna u sigur għal kulħadd.

OUR MAIN AIRPORT HUB IĊ-ĊENTRU EWLIENI TAL-AJRUPORT TAGĦNA Malta International Airport (MLA), the main hub for KM Malta Airlines, first opened in 1958 as Luqa Airport and has since grown into a modern, world-class facility. Playing a crucial role in connecting the island to hundreds of destinations, MLA supports KM Malta Airlines’ extensive network of flights. Guided by core values, the airport ensures a seamless travel experience for all passengers. By working sustainably and collaboratively with its partners, MLA continues to enhance Malta's connectivity and deliver exceptional service to travellers worldwide.

L-Ajruport Internazzjonali ta’ Malta (MLA), iċ-ċentru ewlieni għall-KM Malta Airlines, fetaħ għall-ewwel darba fl-1958 u minn dakinhar kiber f’faċilità moderna u ta’ klassi dinjija. Bi rwol kruċjali biex jgħaqqad ’il gżiritna ma’ mijiet ta’ destinazzjonijiet, l-MLA jappoġġja x-xibka estensiva tat-titjiriet tal-KM Malta Airlines. Iggwidat minn valuri tal-qalba, l-ajruport jiżgura esperjenza ta’ vjaġġ trankwill għall-passiġġieri kollha. Permezz tal-ħidma sostenibbli u kollaborattiva mal-imsieħba tiegħu, l-MLA jissokta jsaħħaħ l-konnettività ta’ Malta u jagħti servizz eċċezzjonali lill-vjaġġaturi mad-dinja kollha.

OUR FLEET IL-FLOTTA TAGĦNA AIRBUS 320NEO

QUANTITY: 8 IN FLEET NUMBER OF SEATS: 180 ENGINES: CFM LEAP-1A MAXIMUM TAKE OFF WEIGHT: 73.5 / 77 METRIC TONS OVERALL LENGTH: 37.57M WINGSPAN: 35.8M CRUISING SPEED: MACH 0.78 (450KNOTS, 833KM/HR) RANGE: 6,500KM, 3,500 NMI, 4,025 SMI FUEL CONSUMPTION: 1.8 LITRES PER 100KM PER PASSENGER* * Based on a 1,000NM (1,860KM) journey with 180 pax and bags.

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FLIGHT INFORMATION

A quick heads-up!

Inħejjuk bil-quddiem!

SEATBELT SAFETY

Your seatbelt is here for your protection!

Please fasten it whenever the seatbelt sign is on or while the aircraft is moving. For your safety, we recommend keeping it fastened throughout the flight. If you’re travelling with a child under two, they’ll need to be secured on your lap with an infant seatbelt, which our crew will be happy to provide.

ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Only alcohol served by our crew is allowed on board, and it’s only for passengers aged 17 and over. Remember, alcohol can have a stronger effect at high altitudes, so please enjoy responsibly. In line with international regulations, we may prevent intoxicated passengers from boarding or continuing their journey.

PHOTOGRAPHY ETIQUETTE

We want everyone to feel comfortable, so please respect your fellow passengers and crew. Please do not take photos or videos on board without their verbal permission.

NO SMOKING ZONE

For the safety and comfort of everyone, smoking – including e-cigarettes – is strictly prohibited at any time when on board the aircraft. If you see anyone smoking, let our crew know immediately.

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IS-SIGURTÀ TAĊ-ĊINTURIN

Iċ-ċinturin tiegħek qiegħed għall-protezzjoni tiegħek! Jekk jogħġbok aqflu kull meta s-sinjal taċ-ċinturin ikun mixgħul jew sakemm ikun miexi l-ajruplan. Għas-sigurtà tiegħek, aħna nirrakkomandaw li żżommu maqful matul it-titjira kollha. Jekk qed tivvjaġġa bl-ulied taħt is-sentejn, dawn għandhom jinżammu fuq ħoġrok b’ċinturin għat-trabi li l-ekwipaġġ ikun kuntent li jagħtik.

IL-KONSUM TAL-ALKOĦOL

Abbord huwa permessibbli biss l-alkoħol servut mill-ekwipaġġ tagħna, u dan qiegħed biss għallpassiġġieri li għandhom 17-il sena jew iktar. Ftakar, f’altitudnijiet għolja l-alkoħol jista’ jkollu effetti aqwa, għalhekk, jekk jogħġbok, ħu gost b’mod responsabbli.

Skont ir-regolamenti internazzjonali, nistgħu nipprevjenu lill-passiġġieri fis-sakra milli jitilgħu abbord jew milli jissuktaw bil-vjaġġ tagħhom.

L-ETIKETT TAL-FOTOGRAFIJA

Irridu li kulħadd iħossu komdu, għalhekk, jekk jogħġbok, irrispetta lill-passiġġieri ta’ miegħek u lillekwipaġġ. Jekk jogħġbok tiħux ritratti jew filmati abbord mingħajr il-permess verbali tagħhom.

POST LI FIH MA TPEJJIPX

Għas-sigurtà u l-kumdità ta’ kulħadd, it-tipjip – inklużi s-sigaretti elettroniċi – huwa pprojbit f’kull waqt abbord l-ajruplan. Jekk tara lil xi ħadd ipejjep, għarraf lill-ekwipaġġ tagħna minnufih.

ELECTRONIC ????????

DEVICES

USING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES (PEDs) L-UŻU TAT-TAGĦMIR ELETTRONIKU PORTABBLI (PEDs)

PEDs IN FLIGHT MODE

Any devices that can send or receive data by wireless means, such as smartphones, tablets and e-readers must be switched to flight mode before departure and can be used throughout the flight. If data transmission capability cannot be switched off while the device is operating, the device itself must be switched off completely for the duration of the flight. Bluetooth connectivity can be used during all phases of flight.

LARGER DEVICES (LAPTOPS, LARGE TABLETS)

These should be turned off and stowed away during taxi, take-off and landing, but you’re free to use them during the cruise.

Wi-Fi

The use of Wi-Fi with flight mode enabled is allowed on aircraft which are equipped with an in-flight entertainment system. Follow any crew instructions regarding connectivity.

USE OF HEADPHONES

Headphones may be used during all phases of flight, however we ask you to remove them during the safety briefing. Customers sitting in an emergency exit row must refrain from using headphones during taxi, take-off and landing.

IL-PEDs FUQ IL-MODALITÀ TAT-TITJIRA

Kwalunkwe tagħmir elettroniku li jista’ jibgħat jew jirċievi d-data mingħajr il-ħtieġa ta’ wajer, bħall-ismartphones, it-tablets u l-e-readers għandhom jinqalbu għall-modalità tat-titjira qabel it-tluq, u hekk jistgħu jintużaw matul ittitjira kollha. Jekk il-funzjoni tat-trasmissjoni tad-data ma tistax tintefa waqt li t-tagħmir elettroniku jkun mixgħul, it-tagħmir innifsu għandu jintefa għalkollox tul it-titjira kollha. Il-konnettività tal-Bluetooth tista’ tintuża tul il-fażijiet kollha tat-titjira.

IT-TAGĦMIR ELETTRONIKU TA’ DAQS IKBAR (LAPTOPS, TABLETS KBAR)

Dawn għandhom jintfew u jintrefgħu matul is-sewqan, it-tlugħ u l-inżul, iżda tista’ tużahom b’mod liberu tul il-kruċiera.

IL-Wi-Fi

L-użu tal-Wi-Fi bil-modalità tat-titjira mixgħula huwa permessibbli fuq l-ajruplani mgħammra bis-sistema taddivertiment ta’ matul it-titjira. Segwi kull istruzzjoni talekwipaġġ rigward il-konnettività.

L-UŻU TAL-HEADPHONES

Il-headphones jistgħu jintużaw tul il-fażijiet kollha tat-titjira, madankollu nitolbuk tneħħihom waqt l-ispjegazzjoni tas-sigurtà. Il-klijenti bilqiegħda f’xi filliera tal-ħruġ tal-emerġenza m’għandhomx jużaw ilheadphones matul is-sewqan, it-tlugħ u l-inżul.

DAMAGED OR OVERHEATING DEVICES

IT-TAGĦMIR ELETTRONIKU BIL-ĦSARA JEW LI JKUN SAĦAN IŻŻEJJED

We kindly ask that all passengers follow these guidelines for the safety and comfort of everyone on board. Have a fantastic flight with KM Malta Airlines!

Ġentilment nitolbu li l-passiġġieri kollha jsegwu dawn il-linji gwida għas-sigurtà u l-kumdità ta’ kulħadd abbord.

Nixtiqulek titjira fantastika mal-KM Malta Airlines!

If any device is damaged, starts to overheat or produces smoke, is lost or falls into the seat structure, please notify our crew immediately.

Do not try to retrieve it yourself if it falls between seats; we’ll take care of it. Carriage of damaged, defective or recalled lithium batteries or devices is prohibited on board our flights.

Jekk xi tagħmir elettroniku jkollu l-ħsara, jibda jisħon jew idaħħan, jintilef jew jaqa’ fl-istruttura tal-pultruna, jekk jogħġbok għarraf lill-ekwipaġġ tagħna minnufih.

Tippruvax issibu inti jekk jaqa’ bejn il-pultruni; nieħdu ħsiebu aħna. Il-ġarr ta’ batteriji tal-litju jew tagħmir elettroniku bil-ħsara, difettuż jew wieħed li ntalab jinġabar lura huwa pprojbit abbord it-titjiriet tagħna.

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Hungry for more?

Pre-order your favourite meal before your next KM Malta Airlines flight and have it delivered straight to your seat.

or visit kmmaltairlines.com/inflight-catering

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