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BALZAN

Horbitusundique septa – surrounded by gardens is the motto of this picturesque village, situated in the middle of Malta. Balzan is well known for its typical beautiful gardens and orchards, laden with the fresh scents of citrus fruits. In spite of the decreasing number of such gardens, Balzan still boasts of an abundance of traditional town houses with back gardens full of lemon, orange and tangerine tress.

It is one of the so called three villages, together with Attard and Lija. The village originally consisted of a group of small dwellings and farms, but eventually grew, becoming a parish in the 17th century..

Local council elections take place every three years. The name Balzan is thought to be Arabic in origin, possibly coming from the olive groves and different species of orange trees (Bitter oranges, blood red oranges etc.) which grew in the area. Also the name is thought to have originated from the surname of a Sicilian family that used to live in the area where Balzan is now situated.

The parish church, built in the mid-17th century, is dedicated to the Annunciation of Our Lady. The church is built in the form of a Latin cross, has one belfry and an elegant dome that can be seen from all around the village. The church is built on a Tuscan style from the outside and Doric on the inside. The statue used in the village feast celebrated on the 2nd week of July, is carved in wood and shows our lady and Gabriel the Archangel. The parish also celebrates the feast of St. Valentine.

Balzan is a sought after location and popular with the middle and upper middle classes. It's residents' political affiliation is predominantly that of the Nationalist Party (PN), a centre-right political party currently in government. Lately it's population has increased due to large-scale development taking place, largely in the form of apartment blocks replacing villas and their gardens. However, this is mainly occurring on the outskirts of the village, and not the historic centre. Due to the fact that the majority of Balzan is an Urban Conservation Area, most of its unique character will remain for years to come.

Madliena is a prestigious town in the north of Malta. It is situated on a hill and many of the villas built there enjoy magnificent views of the northern bays of the island and are harmoniously integrated into the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Madliena is considered to be a gem and is primarily considered to be an up market and exclusive residential area.

The name Madiena, is a reference to Mary Magdalene. Consequently, Madliena is often referred to as a Holy site. There is no tangible evidence that Mary Magdelene was ever shipwrecked on Malta before arriving in France (as is sometimes believed). However, there is evidence that a strong cult devoted to Magdelene existed[citation needed], and Madliena did have a church/chapel dedicated to Mary Magdelene. Sailors would pay their respects to the Magdelene every time they saw the Chapel of Madliena from the seas.

Madliena is also home to the famous Madliena tower, which served as a beacon, built and used mostly by the Knights of Saint John. A watchtower, it stands on high ground above the shore west of Ras L-Irqieqa on the north shore of Malta. It is one of a chain of de Redin towers that permitted communication between Gozo and the Knights headquarters in Valletta. To the west the tower has sight of St Mark's Tower (also known as Qalet Marku), and to the east St George's Tower. After the British gained control of Malta, this tower continued to serve as a military installation. At one time a rifled muzzle loading (RML) gun was mounted on the roof.

FLORIANA

Floriana is situated a stone’s throw away from the capital city, Valletta. The origins of Floriana date back to 1634 when grand master De Paule sensing another attack by the ottoman Turks brought an Italian engineer Pietro Paolo Floriani to examine the state of the island’s fortifications. He recommended that in the stretch of land just outside Valletta other fortifications were necessary to prevent a situation whereby the enemy could see directly into the capital city. Notwithstanding some initial opposition, works on the fortifications were eventually taken in hand and these were completed in 1721 ending at what is today Portes Des Bombes.

Today Floriana has a population of around 2,600 inhabitants, this is somewhat low considering that in 1860 the population reached a peak of 7,871. It covers an area of 133 acres, extending from city gate to portes des bombes. At its highest central point Floriana is about 125 feet above sea level.

Floriana offers an immense heritage and rich history. The buildings, churches, gardens and monuments provide an insight into Malta’s political and social past from the time of the knights of St. John till this present day. In this historic town one finds many beautiful apartments located on the bastions built by the heroic knights of Malta commanding breathtaking views of the three cities and the harbor area as well as many charming town houses.

ST. JULIANS

Before 1800 there was practically nothing standing in the area today called St Julian's, except for Spinola Palace, the old church and a few fishermen’s huts and farmers’ dwellings dotting the countryside. However in the area known as Mensija one finds a set of cart-ruts of the late Bronze Age period. Of the Roman period one finds also a couple of tombs discovered by P. F. Bellanti in the early 20th century in the Tal-Ballut district on the site now occupied by the Chapel of the Sacred Heart Convent.
Because of fear of attacks by the Moslems, the Northern Coastal area remained undeveloped until the diminished attacks after the famous great siege of 1565. The building of Spinola Palace, coming as it does in the 17th century built by an Italian knight, Giovanni Spinola, is the landmark historic building on the bay. Another fine building with superb sea views is Villa Dragonara, now a casino, on the headland of St George's Bay.
Spinola palace is to be regarded as the stepping stone for the coastal reclamation of St Julian's. The palace, together with the surrounding gardens, was built by Fra Paola Raffaele Spinola for the public entertainment as stated in the inscription which one finds above the portico. The palace was enlarged in 1733 through the efforts of Fra Giovanni Battista Spinola, Bali of the order and successor to his uncle as rector and Curator of the abbazia. During the French occupation of these islands in 1798, French troops were stationed in the palace and wrought havoc there. In fact it is thanks to them that the Order’s emblem atop the clock on the façade was mutilated.
Under the British influence St Julian’s changed from an insignificant locality to an important seaside village of pleasant residences. Today one finds much sought after quality apartments with quaint panoramic views of Balluta and Spinola bays and beyond . St Julian's is now an extension of Sliema although it started life as a small fishing port based on Spinola and Balluta Bays. Like Sliema, it is now a major residential and tourist centre, and home to some of Malta's newest hotels. St Julian's merges with Paceville, Malta's main nightlife centre where there are clubs, casinos and numerous restaurants, cafes and bars. Picturesque Spinola Bay is still used by fishermen whose traditional boats are housed just below the restaurants. The bay is particularly attractive at night and as a venue for open-air dining.

VALLETTA

The foundation stone of Valletta was laid by the Grandmaster of the Order of Saint John, Jean Parisot de la Valette, on 28 March 1566; The Order (which was the long-time ruler of the city and the island) decided to found a new city on the Xiberras peninsula just after the end of the Siege of Malta in 1565, so as to fortify the Order's position in Malta, effectively binding the Knights to the island. The city was designed by Francesco Laparelli, while many of the most important buildings were built by Gerolamo Cassar. Valletta, hence, is an urban area which boasts many buildings from the 16th century and onwards, but most of them were built during the time of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem (the Knights Hospitaller, or Knights of Malta).
Valletta, Malta’s capital which was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1980, is nothing short of an open-air museum. It is a living experience of Baroque architecture with hints of modern architecture located in very few selected areas, a monument donated by the Knights of St John nearly five centuries ago. Throughout the years, Valletta has welcomed emperors, heads of state, artists and poets and is now the permanent seat of the Maltese government.
Dotted with quaint cafés and wine bars, the city is today one of Malta’s main tourist attractions, hosting among others, the majestic St John’s Co- Cathedral, the imposing bastions and a treasure of priceless paintings. It also provides a stunning snapshot of Malta’s Grand Harbor, often described as the most beautiful natural harbor in the Mediterranean.

In the centre of the main island of Malta, on the slopes down the country's old capital of Mdina (Notabile) to the 'new' sixteenth century capital, Valletta, lies the gently slumbering romantic village of Attard which is like the other two of the “three villages” (Balzan and Lija), traditionally famous for its citrus orchards and gardens. Hence its motto: 'I perfume the air with my blossoms' (Florigera rosis halo).
Attard is mostly residential now but it comprises a good part which is still agriculture, even rural; another part is recreational parkland with open gardens and national sports facilities. Although not a market town in olden times, Attard now hosts a thriving 'national' vegetable market known as 'il-Pitkalija' on the edge of Ta' Qali, several crafts shops, and a handful of small factories of recent origin. The village is also serviced by all modern amenities including supermarkets, banks various confectioneries, a leading garage, shops and stores, salons, clinics. The village center is almost always bustling with activity especially on Sundays when residents of Attard mingle with fellow churchgoers and proceed to nearby cafeterias.
Attard continues to be a historic place, and a relatively peaceful one, with flowers in blossom everywhere. Tucked away from the boisterous seaside resorts and night spots, sloping gently down from the hills above it, with a synergetic socio-cultural dynamism of its own, symbolised by its elegant parish church, centralised by location and circumstance, spurred on in recent years by the municipal network, Attard has had for years one of the fastest-growing population rates in the Maltese Islands as well as one of the highest levels of social mobility, with a record number of teenagers proceeding to a university education.
During the 1980s, Attard experienced a boost in development. Most modern houses were constructed post-1980 but towards the village center, close to St. Mary's church, one will encounter quite a number of converted farmhouses, recognizable through their wooden doors and flat, rustic roofs.
The President's official residence is situated in Attard at the beautiful San Anton palace which serves as a landmark in the village with its vast gardens accessible to the public. Sant'Anton is not only rich in artistic and historical legacies, but as a magnet for hosting, entertainment and celebrations. This palace has greeted royalty too numerous to list - from Queen Marie of Romania
to the Russian Empress Marie Feodorovna, from King Edward VII to Queen Elizabeth II in this century alone.

NAXXAR

Naxxar is a village in the central north of Malta, The Naxxar Church is dedicated to Our Lady of Victories. The feast is celebrated on September 8. Although it has never been clearly explained from where the name Naxxar originated, it is a clear fact that there is a close tie with the tradition that the people of Naxxar were the first converts to Christianity. In fact the Parish of Naxxar was the first in the Maltese outskirts, after that of the Cathedral (Mdina) and that of Vittoriosa. This is borne out and further evidenced by the village motto – Prior Credidi – meaning the First To Believe.
The Naxxar Locality is spread over an area of eleven kilometres squared and has a population of over eleven thousand persons. It is not easy to determine when Naxxar started to become a village. What is sure is that thousands of years ago, there already existed some form of habitation in Naxxar. This is evidenced by the caves at Tal-Qattara and at Ta’ San Brinkaw; megalith remains of the Bronze Age period at Tal-Qadi and at Qaliet Marku; the cart ruts which start at Salina up to it-Targa and appear later on near the Ghadira tal-Wej and which are probably of the Bronze Age. Moreover Punic tombs have been discovered at the Naxxar Primary School.
Naxxar has always been known to be a fortified village. The actual area where the village of Naxxar is built offers a natural shelter to its inhabitants. In fact, in early times the village was used to trace the movements of the enemy. Because this height has a plain which goes right down to the sea, we find that three forms of defence were built through the ages – those along the sea such as towers, trenches, batteries, redoubts and beachposts - as a physical resistance to those attempting to land from the sea; inland defences like pillboxes – to hinder the advance of the enemy if they were successful in landing; and the fortifications on high ground.
A famous landmatk within the village is Palazzo Parisio, a palace built by Marquis Giuseppe Scicluna. Before, this site was occupied by a summer residence by the Jesuit Community. After buying the property in 1898, Marquis Scicluna altered it into its present state, purchased more land at the back and converted it into a big garden. All this was done between 1898 and 1906. All the artistic designs were done by Italian artists who were brought to Malta on purpose. The paintings on the ceiling are the works of the Italian artist Filippo Venuti. Marquis Scicluna used this palazzo as his private residence for only a short period, till 1907. After the death of the Marquis, the Palazzo stopped being used as a private residence and was changed into a tourist attraction and as a wedding hall.

SLIEMA

Sliema and the coastline up to neighboring St Julian's constitutes Malta's main coastal resort. It is a centre for shopping, restaurants and cafe life. Sliema is also a major commercial and residential area and houses several of Malta's most recent hotels. Sliema, which means `peace', was once a quiet fishing town on the peninsula across Grand Harbor from Valletta. The town began to develop rapidly in the early 20th century as a summer resort for wealthier Valletta residents. Their elegant villas and town houses line the quiet, inland streets.
The Sliema promontory offers on one side stunning views across to Valletta and on the other, open sea views. There are plenty of seats along the promenade and on summer evenings the seafront becomes a sociable meeting place for locals. A few Victorian houses still remain in the inner streets, although only a handfull remain along the shoreline, as there has been significant modern development of much sought after prestigious apartment blocks and hotels. A distinctive group traditional houses with Maltese balconies has survived remarkably intact in some side streets many of which are to be preserved for many years to come as they have heritage protection.

SWIEQI

Swieqi is a town in northeastern Malta. The name Swieqi alludes to the watering channels that used to criss-cross what used to be farm land. It is situated 15 minutes by bus from Sliema.
Its quiet environment and central location, combined with its beautiful townhouses have made it popular with the upper-middle/high class population of the island. In fact, vacant property in this area is notorious for its high demand and despite its high appreciation, most owners are unwilling to sell. Swieqi has seen its population rise over the years. It is essentially a dormitory town, although a small number of service industries, IT facilities and English language schools have taken root.
The town's parish church is dedicated to The Immaculate Conception Mother of the Church, celebrated on the 8th of December. However, the feast is not celebrated, save for a mass and small procession. Very few historical sites can be found in Swieqi. These are located in neighbouring Madliena, consisting of the Victoria Lines, Madliena Fort, the Batteria San Giovanni and the Madliena Chapel.

GOZO

Gozo, which in Maltese is called Għawdex, is a derivation of other older names such as Gaulos. It has an area of 67 square kms, is 14 kms long and 7 kms wide. With a coastline of 43 km, it is the second largest island of the Maltese Archipelago that, together with the smaller isle of Comino and the main island of Malta form the Republic of Malta. Gozo is popularly called The Island of Calypso, that is a nickname originating from the Greek mythological location of Ogygia referred to in Homer's Odyssey. In this epic poem, the fabled island was controlled by the nymph Calypso, who had detained the Greek hero Odysseus for seven long years as prisoner of love.
The Maltese Islands are situated in the centre of the Mediterranean - 93 km south of Italy and 290 km north of North Africa. Gozo lies about 5 km in the North West of Malta and the distance between Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, involves a 25 minute ferry crossing. It therefore enjoys warm summers and mild winters and this makes it the ideal holiday destination at any time of the year.
The official coat-of-arms of Gozo is a field divided horizontally: the upper two thirds silver; the lower one third made up of six parallel wavy horizontal bands alternately silver and black, the top one silver, the bottom one black. Upon the upper part, three slightly pointed hills in black, the centre hill higher and in front of the other two hills. Simultaneously with this emblem, Gozo earned its popular nickname the Island of the Three Hills probably derived from the hilly view when observed from mainland Malta. Throughout the years Gozo has been vastly influenced by the cultures and history of a series of dominators including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, the Knights of St. John, the French and the British, who all left their mark on the cultural and the folkloristic heritage of the population.
In comparison with mainland Malta, one finds a more varied geology and larger relief contrasts, with typical flat-topped hills. Over 31000 people inhabit the island and this amounts to one-twelfth of the overall population of Malta. When compared to the overall area of the Maltese Islands, Gozo covers approximately one-third of that area. This means that the island of Gozo is not overpopulated, and therefore greener and quite more peaceful. Many Maltese and foreigners alike have in fact chosen to purchase holiday homes on this peaceful and charming island, traditional farmhouses and seaside apartments are very popular.
The main sources of income are from Tourism, Agriculture, Fishing together with a number of small and medium-sized enterprises. Politically, Gozo and Comino form one of the thirteen electoral districts of the Republic of Malta. Five representatives are elected to the Maltese parliament, and to better look after the Gozitan people's interests, one of these is always a central government cabinet minister. Besides, each of the fourteen localities or village communities have their own local council and therefore their mayor.

MOSTA

The town of Mosta is situated in the centre of Malta. It is located on a plain and is surrounded by fertile agricultural land. Neighboring villages and towns include Lija, Burmarrad, Rabat and Naxxar. Mosta is found on the main route from Valletta to Cirkewwa and experiences daily heavy traffic flows from north to south and vice versa. Mosta is 9km away from the capital city of Malta, Valletta. Mosta is in continuous development, new buildings are erected every day and the business community is quite active and flourishing. The population at about 18,000 inhabitants is one of the highest in the Maltese islands and has been given a boost in the last decades of the twentieth century.
Mosta’s motto “Spes Alit Ruricolam” testifies to its rural past. In fact, the motto translates to “Hope Strengthens the Farmer”. Yet, today urbanisation has taken a predominant lead over the agricultural activities of the “Mostin” and agricultural land has diminished significantly while the built-up area has sprawled out to the former rural outskirts of the small village of Mosta, now a significant and bustling town. As in all other towns and villages of the Maltese islands, Roman Catholicism is very much alive and active. Thus Mosta’s titular feast, that of St. Mary or the Assumption of Our Lady, forms an apex in the local religious and popular celebrations where the Mostin rally in front of the Rotunda in a manifestation of joy, merrymaking and social well-being.
The red cross symbolises the Catholic faith which has always predominated the lives and beliefs of the locals. The circle represents the Rotunda, Mosta’s parish church, its main landmark and the building for which it is most famous with one and all, Maltese and foreigner alike. The blue star is the symbol of the Madonna, Our Lady, patron saint of the town, whose feast is celebrated on the 15th of August.
Mosta boats a Victorian military installation dating back to 1878 and making up one of the four main fortifications of the Victoria Lines. Fort Mosta lies in the middle of the fortified lines overlooking the Great Fault, a geological feature which separates the northern parts of the island of Malta from its southern half. Fort Mosta, sited on the higher ground facing the lower ground to its front used to guard this terrain which was considered to be prone to invasion by the enemies of the British Empire in a bid to capture and control Malta, so strategic a base in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Fort Mosta has a pentagonal keep which is protected by a ditch and a number of gun emplacements along the perimeter of the fort. This fortification is well-kept and it makes an interesting visit both to the military enthusiast as well as to the uninitiated.

TA’ XBIEX

It is hard to imagine a coastline more beautiful than the one around this peninsula, not quite a mile long, “ix-xatt ta Ta’Xbiex” circumvents a hill where up market handsome villas, many home to ambassadors look over the enchanting Marsamxett Harbour like castles over the Rhine. The streets of Ta’ Xbiex take off from the seafront and shoot straight up the hill without losing sight of the water. Their names honor pioneers such as Onorato Bres, a nationalistic spokesperson for the Maltese civil and political rights in the early part of the British period. His fight continued by his successors ended with the acquisition of the independence in 1964, when the town of Ta’ Xbiex was coming into being.
The marina is the most significant business venture in Ta’ Xbiex, but it is not just a business. The picture perfect scene is an image of leisure, fitting peaceful use of this extremely hospitable harbor. It is also the scene of an active sailing season which extends from April till November. The major sailing regatta is the middle sea race which takes place in September with a route round the island of Sicily and back to Ta’ Xbiex.
Through World War two, in fact, the picture of the peninsula was one of fishing activity and only a few scattered villas, one of bright sun and blue sea. The motto sole illuminata marique amplecta (lit by the sun and embraced by the sea) clicks the shutter on that picture.

MELLIEHA

Mellieha is a large village (pop. 7,549 (Nov 2005)) in the northwestern part of Malta. It is a popular tourist destination during the summer months. Mellieha as a village developed under the British colonization. The British started proposing people to settle in this area by giving leases to the population. It was only during this time that it started to be inhabited again as for two centuries it was abandoned due to fear from attacks of corsairs and Saracens, and beforehand there were only some villagers used to live in the area. After the British encouraged Maltese to settle in Mellieha, the village kept on flourishing. Nowadays, the village also includes a large number of villas in the peaceful, picturesque part of the village known as “santa maria estate.” Even foreigners choose to settle in Mellieha.
Ruins and tombs show Mellieha to have been inhabited from Neolithic times to the Byzantine era, but the area was deserted after the Arab conquest (870), likely due to frequent raids by Muslim corsairs. In 1530 the island was handed over to the Knights of Malta, and Mellieha was one of the many settlements they established, complete with fortifications and a church: The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha, which became one of the island's most venerated places.

Each village in Malta has its own festival. The festival in Mellieha, the feast of Our Lady of Victories, begins on August 30 and culminates on September 8, commemorating the repelling of the Great Siege in 1565. This feast celebrates the victory the Maltese people had over the Ottomans, a victory that many believe saved Europe's Christianity.

Mellieha is now a tourist resort, featuring Malta's largest sandy beach, Ghadira. Another popular attraction is the set of the 1980 film Popeye. A short drive away from Ghadira, the set is a collection of various ramshackle buildings that made up the city of Sweethaven. The 'town' was originally built using several thousand planks, eight tons of nails, and 2,000 gallons of paint. To this day the set draws a considerable amount of tourism, with daily Popeye-related shows taking place for the tourists.

BIRKIRKARA

Birkirkara is a city in central Malta. It is the largest town on the island and consists of four autonomous parishes: St Helen, St Joseph, Our Lady of the Carmel and St Mary. It also houses one of the most famous colleges in Malta, St Aloysius' College. Birkirkara is the home town of President Edward Fenech Adami and Opposition Leader Alfred Sant and also the first president of Malta Anthony Mamo. It is the birthplace of Malta's leading singer songwriter Walter Micallef.
The city's motto is "In hoc signo vinces", and its coat of arms is a plain red cross with a crown on the top.
There are many places of interest in Birkirkara, among which are the Old Railway Station, which today is a public garden. Trains were used as means of transportation until 1931. Other attractions include the aqueducts near Mriehel, and St Helen's basilica, one of the most beautiful churches on the Maltese islands, which also houses Malta's biggest bell. Birkirkara is one of the oldest towns in Malta. It was already featured in the 1436 Ecclestiastical Report which established parishes in Malta and Gozo. Birkirkara emerged as the largest parish. Indeed, quite a lot of parishes emerged from Birkirkara over the years. These include Sliema, St. Julian's, Msida, and Hamrun in the 19th century and Santa Venera in the early 20th century. In more recent years, there was San Gwann (1965) and the hamlet of h was hived off from Birkirkara to form part of the new parish and locality of Swieqi back in 1993. For more information about the history of Birkirkara please visit the Historical Society website.
It has been the most populous town in Malta for the last fifteen years. The main religious feast is that of St Helen which is celebrated on 18 August if it falls on a Sunday, or on the first Sunday after that date. The main event of the celebration is a procession with a larger than life wooden statue carved by the Maltese sculptor Salvu Psaila. This is the only procession that is celebrated in the morning.. The statue is carried shoulder-high through the main streets of the city.

IKLIN

Iklin is a relatively modern village in the centre of Malta, with a small population situated between Birkirkara, Naxxar and Lija. Iklin detached itself only recently from neighbouring village, Lija. A number of commercial outlets have more recently opened in the area. It also has its own Parish Church. This means that it does not depend any longer on Lija, which is its neighbouring village. In fact such celebrations as the first holy communion and confirmation are celebrated in the Iklin Chapel. Such activities which are organised each year include: Jum l-Iklin (Iklin's Day) a fund-raising activity for the Parish Church
There is a small chapel dedicated to St. Michael. St. Michael's feast is celebrated the Sunday before the 29 September. This current chapel seems to have been built in 1615, on the site of a previous chapel. Mgr. Dusina report of the Apostolic Visit in 1575 describes the chapel in a very poor state.
Even though Iklin has only recently developed (the first house was built in 1958), it still has a few minor sites of archaeological importance: a megalithic site, perhaps the remains of a temple was discovered in 1967 by the Teenagers Din l-Art Helwa group from St. Aloysius' College. Unfortunately, this site has never been seriously surveyed or studied. A second megalithic site was studied in 1986 during works on the new Birkirkara By-Pass, in the area known as Tar-Raddiena. Two large megaliths, and a few smaller ones are still visible (though often ignored) on this busy road. The ruins were dated, through pottery sherds found during excavation, to the Temple Period.

Mdina, the old capital of Malta, is a typical medieval town situated in the centre of the island at an altitude of 200 meters above sea level and enjoys a spectacular view of the Maltese Islands. The "Silent City" as it is known although fully inhabited, silence therein reigns supreme. In Mdina car traffic is restricted no cars (other than those of a limited number of residents, emergency vehicles, wedding cars and hearses) are allowed in Mdina and there is a calming atmosphere as one walks along its narrow streets and ways and this further enriches the town’s silent atmosphere. Narrow street and alleys, churches, convents, and palazzo, characterize the city, together with the surrounding high bastions.
The original medieval cathedral dedicated to St Paul was destroyed by an earthquake in 1693. The present edifice was completed and consecrated in 1702 and is the work of Lorenzo Gafa (1638-1703). It is traditionally believed to be standing on the site of the house of Publius, the Roman governor at the time of St Paul's stay on the island. The architecture is well proportioned and splendid. The two belfries have six bells, the oldest of which was cast in Venice in 1372. The church is adorned with paintings by Mattia Preti, fresco paintings in the ceiling by the Sicilian artists Antonio and Vincenzo Manno (1794) and painting in the dome by Mario Caffaro Rore of Turin (1955).

The Parish Church is dedicated to Philip of Agira and the feast is celebrated on the 2nd Sunday of June, although the actual feast day falls on the 12th day of May. The name of the town literally means "olives" in Maltese; it derives from the large olive groves that stood in and around the current location of the church and the centre of the town. The town was bestowed with the title of Città Rohan by Grandmaster Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc in 1777.
In 1380 a church dedicated to St. Philip of Agira was built in Casal Zebugi, a tract of land situated in the middle of the small communities which had developed during the previous Arab occupation of Malta, namely Hal-Dwin, Hal-Muxi and Hal-Mula and which were eventually joined together forming the village known till today as haz-zebbug. Long years after it became the parish church another one, designed by Tumas Dingli, was erected in its stead in the late seventeenth century. The Church boasts a magnificent titular painting by Luca Garnier and two spectacular murals by the great Maltese 18th Century painter of the Favray school, Francesco Zahra, which critics consider to be his best works. The statue of St. Philip, by sculptor Luigi Fontana, was created in 1864 and is regarded by connoisseurs as the most beautiful of its genre in the country.
When Malta was an independent principality under the sovereign Order of St. John, haz-zebbug was among the chief towns after Valletta and Mdina, first because of the presence of leading corsairs among its inhabitants, subsequently due to its major role in the cotton industry. The magnificence of St Philip's Church is the foremost evidence of the pre-eminent place haz-zebbug enjoys in Maltese history. haz-zebbug is the birthplace of various prominent Maltese personalities who have adorned the national cultural history down the ages, such as Mikiel Anton Vassalli (father of the written Maltese language), Dun Mikiel Xerri (patriot), Dun Karm Psaila (Malta's national poet)
The locals or zebbugin as they are known in Malta are renowned for their business acumen amongst others, and there is a local saying to this end. Due to the Zebbugin's Francophile past, the town was regarded as a friendly community when the Revolutionary French took Malta. During their rule in Malta (1798-1800), the local churches were plundered for their riches in order to fund Napoleon's campaign. The Zebbug locals opened the main door to the church when they heard the French were coming and hastily hid the gold and silver religious iconography. When the French saw the open doors of the church they kept on going and the zebbug in retained their religious riches.

VITTORIOSA

Also called Birgu is a small city in Malta that played a vital role in the Siege of Malta in 1565. It is one of the three best-known cities on this small island nation.
The city was established in 1530 - 1535 on the Great Harbour of Malta around Fort St. Angelo, and served as Malta's principal harbour with Cospicua and Senglea. When the Knights of St. John arrived in 1530, they made Birgu the capital city of Malta, since the former capital, Mdina, was inland and did not suit their naval requirements.
After the Siege of Malta in 1565, support for the previously impoverished knights flooded in from across Europe. As a result, Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Vallette was able to implement a long held goal of the knights: the building of a new fortified city on Mount Sceberras, the peninsula opposing Birgu from which the Turks had bombarded Birgu. The new capital city, bore his name, Valletta. After the Siege, the Knights also gave Birgu the title Città Vittoriosa, Italian for "victorious city".
The parish church is dedicated to St. Lawrence. The saint's day is celebrated on August 10. This church was the conventual church of the Order when the Knights settled at Birgu. The Order settled in Birgu until 1575 when the Knights moved to Valletta. As a matter of fact in Birgu one can still find the old Auberges which were all located (except for the Italian Langue) in the Collachio. The Collachio was a confined place where only the Knights were allowed to enter. All these aspects and more can only be appreciated if one visits this unique city which is surrounded by fortified walls and high towers known as St. John and St. James Cavalier, and which are similar to the same named high towers at Valletta. During the visit one should not miss taking a look at the Inquisitor's Palace and the Guva in St.Angelo where Caravaggio was arrested.
Also in Birgu is the Church dedicated to Our Lady of the Annunciation run by the Dominican Order. This church is also known as St. Dominic's Church. The feast of Saint Dominic is held every last Sunday of August. It is organised by the Dominican Friars, the St. Dominic External Feast Committee and the Prince of Wales' Own Band Club of Birgu.
After the taking of Malta by Napoleon in 1798, and his eviction by the Maltese, the British were invited to Malta and the British Navy made Birgu its base in the Mediterranean, and remained there until 1979.

SIGGIEWI

Siggiewi (or Is- Siggiewi) is situated on a plateau in the South Western part of Malta, a few kilometres away from Mdina, the ancient capital city of Malta, and 10 kilometres away from Valletta the capital city. It is the home of inhabitants who, up to several decades ago, worked mostly in the fields which surround the village. The meaning of the word " Siggiewi " is not confirmed; some say that the place was named after the Sageyo's, rich family which had large estates in this area. Others argue that the Semitic roots of the word mean 'prosperous' or calm; two virtues which the villagers still cherish today. In fact the motto of Siggiewi is "Labore et Virtute" (Work and Virtue)
In its demographic and topographical formation, Siggiewi followed a pattern common to other villages in Malta. Before the arrival of the Order of St John in 1530, there were other thriving hamlets in the area. Little by little Ħal Xluq, Ħal Kbir, Hal Niklusi and Hal Qdieri were absorbed in Siggiewi and today, only their secluded chapels remind us of their former existence.
Siggiewi was already established in the 14th century. On December 30, 1797, after a formal request by Don Salvatore Curso, on behalf of his parishioners, Grand Master Ferdinand Von Hompesch instituted the village as a city calling it after his name, "Città Ferdinand".
The ruins of the former parish church, dedicated to St Nicholas of Bari are still visible today. Lately, great restoration works have been carried out and retrieved its old glory. The imposing baroque parish church, dedicated to the same saint, was erected by the hardworking villagers who raised the necessary funds between the years 1676-1693. It was designed by the famous Maltese architect, Lorenzo Gafà but underwent some changes throughout the years. The portico and naves were added by Professor Nicola Żammit in the latter half of the 19th century.
Siggiewi has a lot to offer to the hundreds of tourists who visit each year. The view from the Inquisitor's summer palace, in 1625, is impressive. Today it is the Maltese Prime Minister's official residence. The huge iron cross on huge stone pedestal, erected in 1903 on the hilltop nearby (presumably the highest peak of the island) built at the turn of the century is a well-known landmark. The palace of Grand Master Verdalle is one of the residences of the Presidents of the Republic. Adjoining this palace one finds the famous Buskett, a small forest which Grand Masters such as La Vallette used as hunting grounds.
Siggiewi is also blessed with natural beauty. In the hot summer season, many flock to the picturesque bay of Ghar Lapsi to enjoy peaceful atmosphere in a place which has changed but a little since the dawn of creation. From here the islet of Filfla can be seen on the horizon. The village stands on a flat plateau flanked by two relatively deep valleys (Wied il-Hesri and Wied Xkora)which give this locality a secluded feeling.

GHARGHUR

Gharghur is one of the smallest and oldest towns of Malta.
Gharghur is situated on a hilltop between two valleys in the North-East of Malta with a very small population and is well known to have some of the finest houses of character. Its coat of arms is a red star over a red triangle on a silver shield with the motto 'Excelsior' which means 'The Highest'. This motto indicates the fact that this town is geographically one of the highest in Malta.
Some Roman artefacts, found during road construction, were carried to the Domus Romana (Roman Villa), a Roman Villa and Museum, situated in the old town of Rabat. There is documented reference of Gharghur as far back as 1419, in the lists of the Dejma, which was a Militia that guarded the locals from pirate attacks. This settlement suffered from severe de-population during the High Middle Ages and some years later due to continuous pirate attacks.
Gharghur was a rural community living in an area particularly lacking fertile soil and fresh water. Nevertheless, the inhabitants of this area were able to finance the building of a parish church and several other chapels which host Baroque fine arts. The main attraction of the village, besides the countryside, is the parish church dedicated to Saint Bartholomew the Apostle. Its treasures include a wooden statue of Saint Bartholomew sculptured in Rome, attributed to Maltese artist Melchiore Gafa.
The Victoria Lines, named after Queen Victoria, and which divide the island of Malta from east to west, passes through this locality. Other fortifications can also be found. Gharghur hosts much of Malta's telecommunication infrastructure.

RABAT

Rabat (or Ir-Rabat) is a village just outside Mdina, Malta. The population of Rabat is exceeds 11,000. The Local Council of Rabat is also the administrator of Bahrija.
Rabat is home to many beautiful old houses and is most famous for the Catacombs of St. Paul and of St. Agatha. These catacombs were used in Roman times to bury the dead as, according to Roman culture, it was unclean to bury the dead in the city (Mdina and parts of Rabat were built on top of an ancient Roman city). The Catacombs were also where early Christians secretly met and performed Mass until Constantine I made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire and therefore stopped persecuting Christians. The Catacombs are now looked after by Heritage Malta, the organisation who looks after most of the museums and temples in Malta. Part of St.Paul's Catacombs, the part accessible from the Parish church which is dedicated to the same Saint, was where St.Paul stayed for three months when he was shipwrecked on the island in 60 A.D.

SAN GWANN

San Gwann is one of the largest localities in Malta, with a population of OVER 12,000. The San Gwann suburb is mostly made up of relatively modern buildings having been established as a parish only in 1965. However, the few scattered archeological remains found in the region suggest that San Gwann has an ancient history which is woven into the national history of Malta.
The oldest human remains in the locality are the cart ruts close to Sant Andrija zone. The presence of these prehistoric cart ruts suggests that the region may have housed an agricultural community who made full use of the then fertile valleys of Wied Ghomor, Wied il-Ballut and Wied Ghollieqa. These prehistoric inhabitants may have lived in caves similar to those behind the Tal-Mensija Sanctuary. This agricultural community continued with its activities in the region throughout the subsequent centuries. Roman period remains excavated from the region included a number of tombs and a covered cistern arresting to an active human community. However, the most renowned period archaeological remain is the "Roman Tower" of Ta’ Cieda. This tower was one of a series of eight defensive towers built throughout Malta around the 3rd century AD. This tower further arrests to a continuing human presence in the region since it was used as a cemetery during the Arab period.
The Arab links to the region can also be seen in the various Semitic names given to various localities as arrested by various medieval notarial documents. The old names given to the region – Tal-Gharghar, and L-Imsierah – are such examples. These names give us an indication of the habitat of the region during this distant age. The old name of “Tal-Gharghar” suggests that the region was enriched by a flourishing woodland area of juniper trees which we known were prevalent during the Arab period and were continually cut down for their wood. The alternative name of “L-Imsierah” suggests open spaces reflecting the high ground rise of the locality. During the medieval period, the region was apparently inhabited by at least two communities living at Rahal Tigan [close to Wied Ghollieqa] and Rahal Ger [close to Xwieki between Tal-Gharghar and Naxxar].
Other Semitic locality names recorded in medieval notarial documents include: the valleys – Wied Ghomor, Wied il-Ballut and Wied Ghollieqa – and the field localities – il-Kappara, Habel il-Ghasfur, il-Hirba ta’ l-Imnajdar, ta’ Gharnuqa, l-Andar ta’ Zerqa, tal-Berbri, ta’ Gulbien, tal-Ghul, tad-Dwiemes, Habel il-Hofor, il-Hofra tad-Demus, il-Hrejba ta’ Bajdun, tal-Milfuq, tan-Nigem, Bir Werc, tal-Minfes, ta’ Xmiexi, and others.
The ceding of the Maltese Islands in 1530 to the Order of St. John and the aftermath of the 1565 Great Siege brought a degree of safety from the recurrent Turkish raids that plagued the inhabitants of the San Gwann region in previous decades. This led to an augmentation in the population living in the locality as evidenced by the establishment of further chapels including that dedicated to San Gwann tal-Gharghar [c.1646] and that dedicated to Sts Philip and James [c.1730]. Other buildings built during the time of the knights included the protected farm-building – It-Torri ta’ Lanzun [c.1713].

MARSASCALA

Marsaskala also called Wied il-Ghajn is a modest sea-side village in Malta that has grown up around the small harbour at the head of Marsaskala Bay, a long narrow inlet also known as Marsaskala Creek. The bay is sheltered to the north by Ras iz-Zonqor, the south-east corner of Malta, and to the south by the headland of Ras il-Gzira. This seaside town sees its population swelling in the summer time. Many villas and apartments have been built in this locality seen mostly to be a summer venue.
The village extends along both sides of the bay, and across most of Il-Ħamrija, a creek leading to Il-Ponta tal-Gzira. Marsaskala boasts a rather modern church, and a very pleasant promenade of shops, restaurants and coffee shops along the long stretch of waterfront.
The shore north of Ras iz-Zonqor is of low cliffs, with shelving rock ledges south of the point. Marsaskala Bay is largely edged by promenade, with low shelving rock ledges cut with salt pans on the seaward face of Ras iċ-Ċerna, which continue on round the eastern point, past l-Abjad iż-Żgħir, and into Il-Bajja ta' San Tumas (St Thomas Bay) to the south.
Though not endowed with much in the way of sandy beaches, the environment is ideal for scuba diving and snorkelling, and the town boasts at least two diving schools. The parish church is dedicated to Sant Anna (St. Anne) and St Anne's feast is celebrated at the end of July in Marsaskala.
Man inhabited this area thousands of years ago as evidenced by the several archaeological remains found in various areas of Marsaskala. Its Pre-history is normally divided in the Neolithic period and the Bronze Age. Some of the most ancient remains at Marsaskala are undoubtedly the cart-ruts, which are parallel channels formed in the rock face. Some of Malta's cart-ruts, mysteriously, lead straight into the sea. Difficulties and uncertainties still abound as regards their use as well as the time and the way they were made, though it seems that they served to transport heavy burdens from one place to another.
Early Christian catacombs as well as Roman era villa remains, were also discovered in Marsaskala, the latter suggesting that Marsaskala was also a Roman port. Remains of Roman Baths were found in a field at il-Gzira, a rock peninsula behind the former Jerma Palace Hotel.

BAHAR IC-CAGHAQ

Bahar Ic-Caghaq is a small Maltese village situated between the limits of Madliena, Maghtab, Ghargur and Pembroke. The area is situated at the mouth of the islands longest valley called ‘Wied il-Kbir’. The name Bahar ic-Caghaq in Maltese can be translated to the meaning ‘sea of pebbles’ in English’. The area has been traditionally allocated to one of the nicest bathing spots on the island and as the location’s name suggests, one may find a long stretch of rocky coast characterised by a large number of pebbles and sharp rocks in the limits of the area. The area of Bahar ic-Caghaq has been used as a camping site by British forces during the British colonial period of the islands.
Two century old chapels are found in the area, one of which has been abandoned. A modern central parish church and Franciscan retreat house are also found in the town. Opposite Bahar ic-Caghaq is a 'marine' entertainment centre which also has a dolphin show. Bahar ic-Caghaq nowadays is best known for the 'White Rocks' bathing area, a small number of bars and restaurants, a boy-scout camping site and a hugely poplular ice-cream kiosk.
Residents are approximately 1250 persons (2007 estimate). The town forms part of the Local Council of Naxxar, however the parish district of the town falls under the neighbouring Gharghur. In the last 15 years the land development increased by threefold and Maltese and foreign people continue to purchase and develop property in this much sought after area.

ZEJTUN

Zejtun (also called Iz-Zejtun) is a medium sized town in the south of Malta. Zejtun holds the title of Città Beland, which was bestowed by Ferdinand von Hompesch zu Bolheim, Grandmaster of Knights of Malta in 1797, Beland being his mother's surname. Zejtun takes its name from Arabic “the olive”, which was one of the main productive industries in Malta. This Town is also known for its wonderful and charming houses of character or farmhouses some of which have been expertly converted in recent years.
In Medieval times the whole district around Zejtun, that is the southern end of Malta, was known as le Terre di Santa Caterina, ( Italian for 'the lands of Saint Catherine', Italian being the official language in the period). During this period a number of new villages such as such as Ghaxaq and Marsaxlokk emerged from parts of the Parish of Zejtun. most of these are today separate parishes. The local militia regiment of Zejtun was one of the first to engage the Ottoman forces in the initial stages of the Great Siege of 1565, but the town continued to suffer attacks by Turkish pirates up to 1614, when an attack by the Turks was repulsed without aid from other militias. The town served a minor role in the French Blockade of 1799/1801 as a depot for soldiers. It was one of the first towns in Malta, outside the main fortified areas of Malta, to boast a Public Garden. This garden, the Luqa Briffa Garden, still stands today. It is named after a famous cavalryman during the Great Siege of Malta.
Zejtun passed the British-rule of the Maltese islands as a rural-backwater in the green fields of the Mazza Valley. In this period it had one of the many hospitals in Malta for wounded British and French soldiers in the First World War, which hospitals earned the island the nickname of the Nurse of the Mediterranean.
The village contains various Roman remains, including a Roman Villa, and a Church dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria. The most important event which takes place in the town during the year is the feast of St. Catherine of Alexandria, which is celebrated in summer and not in the traditional date of the 25th of November. On this day Zejtun's two rival musical bands, the Banda Beland and the Zejtun Band, perform at Gregory Bonnici Square. Zejtun is considered as the hub of Maltese folk singing, l-ghana and the town has given Malta many of its most respected folk singers.
As in most Mediterranean countries, olive tree cultivation and the production of olive oil was prevalent in Malta, especially during Roman times. Over the years this activity declined especially when cotton cultivation became popular around 200 years ago. There has been a renewal of interest in olive tree cultivation during recent years. Archeological remains of such activity indicate that the area around Zejtun was already inhabited in Punic and Roman times.

DINGLI

Dingli is a village on the west coast of Malta, with a population of 3,326 persons (Nov 2005), 13 kilometers from the capital Valletta and two kilometers from the nearest city, Rabat. The village lies on a plateau some 250 metres above sea level, which is the highest point of Malta. The area provides not only open sea views over the tiny, uninhabited isle of Filfla, but also an excellent vantage point over Malta.
From the cliffs there are views inland of nearby Buskett Gardens and Verdala Palace. The countryside here is ideal for walking. An ideal locality for people looking for a detached country residence. Dingli is a locality near the sea and is full of cultivated fields, but at the same time stands imposingly very high above the sea. The Dingli Cliffs, in harder times than at present, were also sometimes beneficial. Century’s age, Malta was frequently devastated by sea pirates who wreaked havoc everywhere. Many people were robbed, carried away as slaves, or killed straight away. For several centuries life it was no longer possible to live in the Island.

GZIRA

Gzira is a town in the north-eastern coast of Malta (pop. approx. 8,000), between Msida & Sliema, and bordering on Ta' Xbiex, with its famed yacht marina and Embassy Row. The word Gzira means "island" in Maltese, and the town is named after Manoel Island which lies just adjacent to the town. The seafront of Gzira is famed for its breathtaking views of the walled city of Valletta, which are illuminated at night, forming a picturesque backdrop to Manoel Island, the yacht marina and a seafront public garden.
In the mid-19th century the first houses started to be built in Gzira. Gzira became known as a working-class town. During the last decade, a large proportion of the old houses has been demolished and new, luxurious blocks of flats have been built. Much of the character and charm of the seafront houses has been lost as a result, although on the narrow village streets in the heart of Gzira one can still find examples of traditional Maltese facades, with their enclosed wooden balconies (gallarija) and bow-fronted, wrought-iron balconies. The proliferation of flats in Gzira led to an inflation of the housing prices, as the town became sought after by both Maltese and foreign settlers. The main reason behind the area's popularity is that it is fairly centrally located in Malta, being close to both the University of Malta and the capital, Valletta. Service industries, mainly car mechanics, commercial outlets and educational services are the town's main activities, yet Gzira shall most probably remain the gateway to Sliema, its neighbouring town.
Gzira became a parish within the Roman Catholic Archidiocese of Malta in 1921, with Dun Anton Manché appointed as its first parish chaplain (kapillan). The parish church of Gzira is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and its annual festa is celebrated in July.

QORMI

Qormi also known as Hal Qormi or Città Pinto, is a city in Malta with a population of over 16,000. The town is located southwest of Valletta in the centre of Malta. The town enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry, sunny summers and short, cool winters.
The neighbouring towns of Qormi are Marsa, Luqa ,Zebbug and Siggiewi. Qormi sits just off a main road between the old capital city Mdina and the new capital city Valletta.
The patron saint of Qormi is Saint George while the protector is Saint Sebastian. For two weeks in summer, the town celebrates the feast of its Saints. The town is also known for its Good Friday procession with over 500 people participating each year, outgoing from the church of Saint George.
Qormi is run by a local council established in 1993 under the Local Councils Act. Qormi also houses a number of bakeries and band clubs namely Anici Band & Social Club (L-Ghaqda Muzikali u Socjali Aniċi); Pinto Philarmonic Society St. George's Band Club (L-Ghaqda Muzikali San Ġorġ Martri) and St. Sebastian Band (Is-Socjetà Filarmonika Pinto Banda San Sebastjan). This highly populated town is also home tomany sports clubs including Qormi is home to Qormi FC, the football team of the city, playing in yellow and black. Qormi is also home to the Qormi Basketball Club, which is an established team in Maltese Basketball and the Qormi Hockey Club represents our city in the National Hockey Leagues both in the junior and senior categories.

SENGLEA

Senglea is a fortified city in the east of Malta, mainly in the Grand Harbour area. It is one of the Three Cities, with the other two being Cospicua and Vittoriosa. The city of Senglea is also called Citta Invicta, because it managed to resist the Ottoman invasion at the Great Siege of 1565. The proper name is Senglea since the grandmaster who built it Claude De La Sengle, gave this city a part of his name. Here one finds some magnificently restored seafront houses of character or town houses sought after for their tranquil location. Some having been built centuries ago and retaining numerous authentic features which reflect genuine Maltese antiquity.
The island was in fact joined by a landbridge to Cospicua during the time of the Knights of St. John and as a result, it became peninsular in shape. During the time of the Knights of St. John, Senglea was also used as a hunting area, and was in fact known as L'Isola di San Giuliano, but later it was developed and made inhabitable by the Grand Master, Claude de la Sengle who built fortifications following a Turkish invasion in 1551. The locality eventually became known as Senglea but retained its old name Isla.
Senglea is particularly famous for the miraculous statue of Jesus Christ The Redeemer (Ir-Redentur ta` l-Isla), located in the oratory of the basilica which is dedicated to the birth of the Virgin Mary (Marija Bambina).
Senglea also has a statue dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus, which is often referred to as Il Madonna Tan-Nofs, literally meaning "Our Lady Of The Centre". It was originally erected in the city center during the time of the plague, as gratitude, for being the only town not contaminated.
We must not forget the local band club, currently named "Socjeta Filarmonika La Vincitrice". The local band can be seen especially during the feast of Senglea. The band also has an important role in the Good Friday procession and Easter celebrations.

XEMXIJA

Xemxija is a town on the west side of St. Paul's Bay.
Xemxija (meaning sunny) is the gateway to the sandy beaches of Golden Bay to the west, and to Mellieha Bay to the north. Xemxija is a quiet resort, surrounded by Maltese countryside and some of the most fertile valleys in Malta. There is also a picturesque small fishing harbour. There are a few hotels and restaurants in Xemxija, but nightlife, shops and bars can be found in the villages of St Paul's Bay, Bugibba and Qawra, all within walking distance.
Many delightful apartments may be found in this town enjoying wonderful open views and situated just minutes away from some of the islands most beautiful beaches. In fact many of these attractive apartments enjoy breathtaking sea and country views.

ZURRIEQ

The Village of Zurrieq claims for a large area of the South Eastern part of the Island of Malta, in which village we find a wide collection of ruins and remains going back to the Bronze and Punic times, through the Roman, Knights and British eras. The village in itself is to a large extent adorned with houses and buildings of historical value dating to the XV and XVI century.
We find the first historical reference to this village back in 1399. The villages of Hal Lew, Hal Millieri, Hal Manin, Bubaqra, Hal Far, Nigret and Qrendi used to make part of the village itself, until in . 1618 the village of Qrendi became a village of its own right while the others dissolved in a natural way with their area now making an integral part of the village perimeter.
The village of Zurrieq is surely not lacking in history, and this can be witnessed by the numerous ruins and remaining structures that indicate the flow of the village through time. These indicate the various settlements of peoples that inhabited the village area, from the Phoenicians to the Carthaginians, Greeks to the Romans. The remains found indicate these peoples as ancestors to the village, yet without excluding the possibility of other peoples, this village is rich in ruins and remains which in future may shed new light on its ancestors. Proof of this may be seen namely in remains such as the Punic Tower, Xarolla Catacombs, Cart Ruts at 'Tal-Bakkari', 'Tal-Hlantun Tower' and many others.
The largest village in the area, it is also the centre of most of its commercial activities. It has also been one of the oldest to be established as a separate parish church, and thus it precedes all the other villages that are within the immediate vicinity. Zurrieq has always been one of those villages that attracted people from smaller hamlets. Hal Millieri, a case in point, was still thriving up to the late 16th century, but by the turn of the 17th century it dwindled and today only its names survives. The majority of its inhabitants went to live either at Zurrieq, or else in nearby villages. The area surrounding Zurrieq is also famous for its wonderful country walks. A walk from the parish center towards the cliffs overlooking the Blue Grotto, would lead one through wonderful scenery, including the valleys of the area as well. In fact today this tranquil village is much sought after for its exceptional houses of character many of which have been expertly converted.

MGARR

Mgarr is a typical rural village, and lies in one of Malta's most isolated spots around five kilometres from the town of Mosta. It is surrounded by rich farmland and vineyards and most of the local population is still engaged in agriculture. Mgarr's rustic environs embrace several picturesque spots - Bingemma, Wardija, Fomm ir-Rih and Gnejna Bay. The countryside is superb for walks. Here you are likely to come across examples of Giren, circular stone huts used by farmers, natural landmarks such as the characteristic flat-topped hills, ancient rubble walls and typical Mediterranean garrigue, or scrubland.
Mgarr's history is that of a farming community, which some of the Mdina patrican families had owned, such as the Vassallo family. Mgiarro was granted by the King of Sicily to the Inguanez family, and over time they sold it to the Falsone family. Over time, land was split up and given to all descendants.
Mgarr today has grown quite large, though still considered a country town with fresh clean air away from the major industrial towns of Malta. One may find many charming villas and houses of character in this area
Mgarr's rustic environs embrace several rustic spots like Bingemma, Wardija, Fomm ir-Rih and Gnejna Bay.
Mgarr has two important prehistoric sites: Ta' Hagrat, which is still in a good state of preservation, stands in a field near the village centre; Ta' Skorba, excavated in 1963, lies just outside the village.

ST. PAULS BAY

Saint Paul's Bay is one of the numerous inlets of the island of Malta. It is a place of reference, and holds an ancient and interesting history, especially because this is the place where the shipwreck that brought St. Paul the Apostle of Christ to this island took place. It is after the Apostle of Gentiles the place is named. The village is situated about ten miles (sixteen kilometers) from Valletta, on the north coast of Malta.
St. Paul's Bay is surrounded by valleys and hills. The land around it is all fertile. Burmarrad valley is renowned for its vegetables and grapes. Although the fields are small and terraced the diligent farmer toils his lands carefully and helped by nature's favor the product is abundant.
A quick glance around we see that the St. Paul's Bay, Bugibba and Qawra area takes us in the prehistoric times, around 6000 years before Christ. The place was excellent for fruit-gatherer, hunter and fishermen. Their graves still exist on Mistra ridge and takes us to 3800 B.C.
St. Pauls Bay is popular for its superb seafront apartments with stunning unobstructed views of St. Paul’s bay, the islands beyond and the wonderful Mediterranean Sea. One may also find some lovely spacious villas with lovely mature gardens set in the tranquil area of this location.

QAWRA

Qawra is a small town on the north-eastern coast of this Mediterranean island.
Close to Bugibba and forming part of St. Paul's Bay, Qawra is popular among tourists and is home to a great many hotels and restaurants. Although there is no beach, many swim and bathe off the rocks, which provide ample space for sun bathing.
Qawra is also the site of one of the many towers built by the Knights of St. John. Qawra Tower is now a restaurant.
Qawra is home to many water-sport activities including banana boat rides and speed boat rides.
In Qawra many lovely apartments have been built with spacious sunny terraces many enjoying fantastic sea and country views.

QRENDI

Qrendi is a small village in the southwest of Malta, with a population of just over 2,500 people. It is near Mqabba and Zurrieq. Within its boundaries are two well-known Neolithic temples called Mnajdra and Hagar Qim. In this village two feasts are held annually. The feast of Our Lady of Lourdes is celebrated either on the last Sunday of June or on the first Sunday of July, with the August 15 the titular feast of the Ascension of Our Lady. This feast is popularly known as the feast of Santa Maria.
Although the majority of the village's old core buildings remain today, Qrendi has changed considerably in recent times. A bypass road has been built to divert through-traffic away from the village, modern suburb developments has been built and an open space with a bus terminus has been created in front of the Parish Church by removing the walled grounds from an old villa. In Qrendi one finds many much sought after charming houses of character that have survived through the ages, some of which expertly converted with great taste.
The village is very quiet, as many of the Qrendin keep themselves to themselves, which gives the visitor a sense of relaxation and tranquillity in the narrow streets. There are no tourist cafes in the centre of the village. However the residents are friendly and will usually give a cheery greeting to any passers-by.

IBRAG

Ibrag is a relatively modern and very quiet residential town. However it is only a five minute drive away from Paceville, the hub of Malta's recreational area where one can find loads of pubs, restaurants, shopping mall, casino, cinemas, bowling, nightclubs and sandy beach.

SAN PAWL TAT-TARGA

BIDNIJA

Bidnija is a rural hamlet situated in the central northern part of Malta, and home to 100 families(fewer than 350 people) which consider themselves as one family as they are all members of one big family. Bidnija is a tiny village even by Maltese standards, and is located between two valleys which are 'Wied Qannotta' and 'Wied Tal-Pwales'. It is still largely a farmer's village since it is entirely surrounded by fields which mainly belongs to the inhabitants themselves, although in recent years many have moved here in order to enjoy the quiet life amidst the countryside and today Bidnija boasts some fine country residences.
Bidnija took its name from the 'Bidni olive trees' grove that is found in this village and can date back to 5,000 years. The inhabitants are very proud to have these olive trees in their village as they are indigenous Maltese olive trees which are found nowhere else on Earth except in Malta. These olives are of good importance to olive-oil's productivity
Bidnija has good horse riding facilities and is also home of a clay pigeon shooting club. One can also find a good restaurant here which specialises in the traditional Maltese Rabbit Stew. Its small church is dedicated to the Holy Family and a Feast is celebrated in July.

ZABBAR

Zabbar is the fourth largest town in Malta, with a population of 14,694 (Nov 2005). Originally a part of Zejtun, Zabbar was granted the title of Città Hompesch by the last of the Grandmasters of the Knights of St. John to reign in Malta, Ferdinand von Hompesch zu Bolheim. The Grandmaster gave his surname to the city, which is still known (in honorem) as Città Hompesch.
The city is very devout, particularly to Our Lady of Grace, to whom the city Sanctuary is dedicated. A vast number of paintings and other artefacts can be found in the village church museum, most of which have 'VFGA' in some way or other imprinted on them. This is the Latin abbreviation for Votum Fecit, Gratiam Accipit, meaning that a grace has been asked for and it had been granted due to intercession by the Madonna tal-Grazzja (Our Lady of Grace). These paintings are one of the largest votive paintings called Ex-Votos collection, about marine subjects and give large detail about ships of the Knights of Malta era. The Mattia Preti painting, found in the town's museum, is a particularly beautiful and invaluable painting.