28 | MALTA


January 2024


Step Into the Land of Westeros MALTA- THE FILM ISLAND


BY SARAH PICKERING


HAVE you ever dreamed of walking in the footsteps of the Kings and Queens of


new and old, yet the traditional essence is maintained both in buildings and its local way of life.


Smaller than expected, the compact city plays on your senses with rolling hills elevating all to the centre where sits the ultimate viewing gallery of the famous port here in Malta-


as


though to view a famous painting in an open- aired gallery. This point especially is the area in which to highlight the abundantly clear ‘new and


Game of Thrones? Maybe ride alongside those in the Trojan War? Or even visit Popeye the sailorman’s home? Malta is the island in which to do it. Flying into this small island not far from the bays of Sicily to the North and the shores of Tunisia to the south- west, Malta captivates every movie- buff’s heart as you soar above the hundreds of sailing boats gliding upon the vibrant blue water and witness the soft yellow of the many buildings below. Having been subjected to the Game of Thrones hype and falling into the trap of loving the series, the warm tones of the island automatically take you to King’s Landing- As if to fly directly into a movie set. To some extent, this is exactly what had happened as many locations were chosen for filming parts of the hit


old’, with cruise ships aplenty hugging the port side and the backdrop of the historic fort sitting high above the water. Inshore it is easy to walk the cobbled streets to soak up the history and life of the island. With busy eateries, vendors and bars, Valletta is the escape of historical tradition from the outer regions into a modern world. A walled city, Valletta has been the heart of Malta from the 1500’s which is not easily forgotten due to the aged infrastructure and traditions still maintained to this day within the city. possibly the most recognised and watched tradition is that of the gun salute carried out daily.Make your way to the salute battery which sits elevated below the viewing point located from the Upper Barracca Gardens. The well-maintained guns arrived to the maltese shores during


the


16th century and


been


have used


throughout that


for different reasons;


time Its


most famous use was as a


defence


mechanism against naval assaults, however this salute been to


has used welcome


tv series, with many areas untouched and left just as they were found before filming. Although seen many times on the big screen, Malta is much more than its


dystopian-like infrastructure and


war-time involvement. A country with two capitals is a rare


thing. The new versus old capitals of Malta boast unique and diverse qualities which test the tales of time. The yellow brickwork rains throughout the island, yet mirrored with modern luxury and wealth in the form of tourist interest. Don’t be fouled by the prospect of


Valletta providing modern dominance in the region- The island’s ‘new’ capital can be described as the perfect blend of


dignitaries and royalty,


keeping those within the


Grand


along with Harbour


correct on timings, as a single shot is fired daily at midday. It is fitting that visitors


will also


find the infamous Lascaris War Rooms sheltered below the platform and well into the mound. Now open to the public, take a walk through the


islands World


Park Heights by The Warren Collection Park Heights Four Stars “Beautifully designed studio apartments strategically located in the harbour town of


Msida, a stone’s throw from the capital city of Valletta, effortlessly fuse style, functionality and


home offering not


comfort only


gorgeous bedrooms but tricked out top-quality kitchens and bright living spaces that adapt to the way you live your life. “


parkheightsmalta.com


Corinthia Palace Five Stars “Experience the place in which the Corinthia legend began. Resting amid


olive


Palace. From the shores of the Mediterranean Sea to the winding streets


of Malta’s groves,


brimming with lush verdure, and completely in tune with the desirable slow pace of Malta, this is Corinthia


picturesque villages filled with historical landmarks and neolithic temples, our Palace is an idyllic location to witness what the island has to offer.


It’s time


to taste, discover and immerse yourself in the real magic of Malta.” corinthia.com


War Two history during its british rule. The island played a key role in the war during this time due to, not only its reigning country and its importance, but its location which opened the British to new heights and strengthened war tactics. The RAF control rooms located within these rooms are well-known for its key involvements in the 1943 invasion of Sicily and following on from the war, was used by NATO to intercept soviet submarines within the mediterranean. Now functioning


as a museum, the


vast underground tunnels and rooms showcase just how important this island was, and is, and gives a personal sense of importance to the daily gun salute. A transportation in time from a single gunshot over one of the most spectacular harbours in the world. But, as mentioned, there is so much more to Malta than its frequently- visited capital. The Mediterranean is world-renowned for its magnificent coastlines and waterways, but the blues of Malta and its islands, Comino and Gozo, are a sight one truly needs to see for themselves. Whether visiting by day boat-tour or hired yacht, one must spend at least one day exploring its beauty and warm waters. Most boat companies in the region will provide day trips to well known swimming spots such as the Blue Lagoon and some even include trips to the Gozo island where travellers can walk throughout its untouched beauty. The waters are a luke-warm constant with the sun beating down for the most- part of the year highlighting Malta as the ultimate destination from both sun worshippers and the history buffs. The blues of the island are extremely popular with both visitors and locals alike and it is therefore necessary to arise early whilst wishing to explore (this is the perfect excuse to catch the early rays of the sunrise as it elevates to its spot for the day).


The island itself is simplistic and quirky, adding to its timely feel and maltese charm. With that said, travelling throughout the island mainly follows suit. All areas of the island can be reached by timely buses and taxis despite the lack of trains. Hop into one of these transports and step into a world of fantasy at the Popeye village. This ‘abandoned’ film set settled in the north of the island is the original set of the 1980 live action comedy Popeye. Stars such as Robin Williams graced the island to film the movie where he played popeye. You now too can explore the cartoon-esque map, featuring the


fire station, local bar and grocery store and be entertained by the hourly rendition of Popeye and Olive,


his


true love, as they dance their way through the map. The slanted roofs and colourful buildings are hidden at what feels like the bottom of a cliffs-edge which can be accessed only by foot- The entire area feels a world away from the local, quiet roads leading to the location. It gives a sense as to why this location was chosen for filming as the dystopian feeling is already created, without the need of the film crew. The area is suitable for both young and old and features a minigolf course, small outdoor swimming pools and fortified beach for village visitors only. The village is a must-see from the blues of the mediterranean and is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Looking for an escape from the hot sun? As mentioned, the mediterranean is known for its blue seas which are filled with a world of wildlife and colourful species; This is also true for the surrounding waters of Malta. Whilst spending the day at sea, one may witness the beauty of the dolphins or colourful jellyfish inhabiting the waters in the area; The Malta aquarium is also the


prime location to take a closer look at the wonders and lives of the animals of the region, and how this island is helping to ensure the upheaval of endangered species. Witness fish, jellyfish, local reptile inhabitants and everything in between. Once again, ideal for all the family with a tasty restaurant within the facility, accompanied by the scenic views of the ocean.


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