A new day begins in Malta

Malta is an archipelago in the Mediterranean situated between Europe and Africa.

Malta is the largest island, but also includes the islands of Gozo, Comino, Comminotto and Fifla. The nation has had more than 5,000 years of human occupation and has absorbed Phonoecian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences.

The capital, Valletta, is a fortified Renaissance city and UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow cobblestone streets. Here lies the magnificent baroque St John's Co-Cathedral with an adjoining museum featuring two works by Italian painter Caravaggio. A further point of interest is the National Museum of Archaeology which houses relics from four of Malta's neolithic temples, dating back to 3600BC.

Elsewhere in Malta you will find picturesque fishing villages, sheltered coves with warm, crystal-clear water and ancient fortified towns such as Mdina and Cittadella.

Malta has tourist resorts at Sliema and Bugibba, but for those who want to get away from it all, island hopping between Malta, Gozo and Comino is the way to go.

Malta enjoys a warm climate and outdoor activities such as hiking, rock-climbing, sailing and swimming are popular here.

Malta is a devoutly Catholic country. The official languages are Malti and English.