This small island nation sits between Sicily and North Africa and its location has shaped thousands of years of culture, architecture and traditions. Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Knights of St. John and the British all left their mark on Malta, creating a destination rich with layered history.
Today Malta is celebrated for its historic cities, seaside cliffs and sunny island lifestyle. From medieval fortresses and UNESCO landmarks to peaceful fishing villages and clear swimming coves, the country offers a remarkable mix of culture and coastal beauty.
Here are ten highlights that help explain what Malta is famous for.
1. Valletta, Malta’s Historic Capital
Malta is famous for Valletta, one of the most historic capital cities in Europe. Built in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, the city sits on a narrow peninsula surrounded by fortified stone walls.
Valletta is known for its elegant baroque architecture, narrow streets and golden limestone buildings that glow in the Mediterranean sun. Grand palaces, historic churches and scenic terraces overlook the deep blue harbor below. Because of its cultural importance and preserved architecture, Valletta is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. St. John’s Co-Cathedral
One of the most celebrated landmarks in Malta is St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. From the outside, the building appears modest, but inside it reveals one of the most elaborate church interiors in Europe.
The cathedral is famous for its richly decorated marble floors, gilded carvings and dramatic artwork. It is also home to Caravaggio’s masterpiece The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, one of the most important paintings in Malta. The cathedral reflects the wealth and influence of the Knights of St. John who once ruled the island.
3. The Ancient City of Mdina
Malta is also recognized for Mdina, a medieval hilltop city often called the “Silent City.” Surrounded by stone walls, Mdina feels frozen in time.
The narrow streets are quiet and shaded by historic buildings that date back hundreds of years. From the city’s bastions, visitors can see wide views across the island countryside. Mdina’s calm atmosphere and historic beauty make it one of the most memorable places in Malta.
4. The Blue Lagoon
Malta is famous for the Blue Lagoon, a stunning stretch of bright turquoise water located between the islands of Comino and Cominotto. The lagoon’s shallow waters and white sandy seabed create brilliant shades of blue that attract visitors from around the world.
Many people come here to swim, snorkel or simply relax in the clear Mediterranean water. The surrounding rocky cliffs and open sea views make the lagoon one of the most photographed natural spots in Malta.
5. Malta’s Megalithic Temples
Malta is known for some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. The island’s megalithic temples were built more than 5,000 years ago, making them older than the pyramids of Egypt and Stonehenge.
Sites such as Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra and Tarxien reveal the advanced engineering and spiritual life of Malta’s earliest inhabitants. These massive stone temples continue to fascinate archaeologists and historians today.
6. The Three Cities
Across the Grand Harbour from Valletta sit the historic towns of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Together they are known as the Three Cities.
These towns are famous for their narrow streets, historic forts and maritime traditions. The Knights of St. John once used the area as their naval base and its deep harbors remain one of the most impressive natural ports in the Mediterranean. Today the Three Cities offer a quieter glimpse into Malta’s historic seafaring culture.
7. Dramatic Coastal Cliffs
Malta is celebrated for its rugged coastal scenery, especially the towering Dingli Cliffs along the island’s western edge. These cliffs rise high above the sea and offer sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
Sunset at Dingli Cliffs is particularly beautiful as the sky glows orange and pink over the water. The dramatic coastline shows a different side of Malta, where nature and open landscapes take center stage.
8. Traditional Fishing Villages
Malta is also famous for its colorful fishing villages. One of the most recognizable is Marsaxlokk, a harbor town known for its traditional wooden boats called luzzus.
These boats are painted in bright colors and decorated with the “Eye of Osiris,” a symbol believed to protect fishermen at sea. The village’s waterfront market and seafood restaurants reflect Malta’s deep connection to the Mediterranean.
9. Maltese Cuisine
Malta is recognized for its flavorful cuisine influenced by Italian, Mediterranean and North African traditions. Many dishes feature fresh seafood, olive oil, herbs and locally grown vegetables.
Popular foods include pastizzi, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas and fenek, a traditional rabbit stew that has long been part of Maltese cooking. Desserts often include honey-based sweets and almond pastries that reflect the island’s historic trade routes.
Meals in Malta are often enjoyed slowly, with family and friends gathering around the table to share food and conversation.
10. Malta’s Sunny Island Lifestyle
Perhaps what Malta is most celebrated for is its relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, the island has a naturally outdoor way of life.
People gather at seaside cafés, swim in rocky coves and stroll through historic squares in the evening. The pace of life encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy the scenery, the culture and the warm hospitality that defines Maltese life.
What is Malta Known For?
Malta is known for its ancient temples, historic cities and stunning Mediterranean coastline. From the golden streets of Valletta and the medieval walls of Mdina to the bright blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, the island blends thousands of years of history with breathtaking coastal scenery.
With its rich culture, welcoming atmosphere and remarkable heritage, Malta continues to stand out as one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating destinations.
