The RAF Vulcan crash in Malta
In 1975, a British RAF Vulcan bomber exploded as it approached the runway of Malta's airport. That few cilivians died is near-miraculous. This article describes what happened and the view on the ground.
Russian exiles in Malta
Mentioning exiled Russians these days suggests pro-Ukrainian protesters or anti-Putin demonstrators. Malta's reputation as a haven for Russians goes back more than 100 years before Putin's antics.
The Maltese chapel of bones
I’ve written about Czech ossuaries before, and I’ve visited the one in Paris, but few know there is a Maltese chapel of bones. Well, there used to be one anyway.
Learn all about Malta’s lost Orsi Tower
We are so focused on preserving historical buildings that we often don’t realise how many already disappeared for one reason or another.
Orsi tower used to stand guard at the mouth of Valletta's harbour, and is one such lost building.
Learn how Portugal helped Malta in its time of need
If you ask people how Malta fought against French occupation, most will talk about how the British helped the Maltese out. Few know that the Portuguese navy played the decisive part in this battle. This article sets the record straight.
The Temple of Proserpina
There are few Roman remains on the island of Malta. Not far from Rabat in the village of Mtarfa, the Romans had built the now-lost Temple of Proserpina.
Marsalforn – The capital that almost was
In Malta, it won't take long before someone tells you that Valletta is the 'new' capital city and Mdina is the 'old' one. Few know that the same thing almost happened in Gozo, Malta's second island.
Why did the Pope want to move to Malta?
In the 19th century, various states on the Italian peninsula united to become a single, new country. While some papal states merged with the others, the Vatican refused to be under the control of an earthly ruler. It even considered moving the seat of the Holy See to Malta.
The powerful Anglo-Egyptian Bank in Malta
In the 19th century an offshore British bank in Malta issued its own banknotes. It's unusual to think of a private company issuing banknotes, more so in a small country like Malta. This article explains why this bank did so and why it was in Malta.
The Battle of Ferozeshah
British forces fought wars all over India in the 18th and 19th century. Between tribal feuds, and the British, there were many sources of conflict. This article describes the Battle of Ferozeshah, and its small connection to Malta.