| About Malta »
The Maltese Islands
The Maltese archipelago consists of the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino. Malta, with Valletta as its capital, is the largest island of the group. Strategically located at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, 93 kilometres south of Sicily and 288 kilometres north of the North African mainland (Tunisia) linking Europe, North Africa and Middle East, Malta's unique position affords easy access to these markets and beyond.
The islands cover a total area of 316 square kilometers. The distance in Malta from North West to South East is about 27 kms, with 14.5kms width in an n E/W direction. Malta has neither mountains nor rivers and the island is characterized by a series of low hills with terraced fields. The shoreline which is 317 kms long has many bay and harbours, with a good selection of small sandy beaches and rocky coves.
Accessibility
Malta's coastline is well indented with natural harbours as well established ports. Historically, these ports have established the islands as a centre for Mediterranean commerce, combining old world charm with Modern port facilities. At the centre of countless shipping routes, these ports provide a wide variety of professional shipping services to value to major commercial entities. The Grand Harbour of Valletta is Malta's main port, and one of the spectacular natural deep water harbours in the Mediterranean. The Malta Freeport, situated at the south-eastern tip of Malta, has become an important transhipment centre in the Mediterranean. Both ports offers a comprehensive service covering practically all maritime requirements, service that reflects the care, commitment and knowledge that the Maltese maritime community is today well renowned for.
In addition, Malta is readily accessible from major European and North African destinations and has direct air links to most European and North African cities, Middle East and Arab Gulf States.
Political and Administrative scenario
The Maltese islands are politically and economically stable, with a sound legal and financial framework. Industry and exports, information technology, tourism and financial services are the pillars of the Maltese economy. The country's communication facilities are excellent, with a highly sophisticated digital telecomunications infrastructure that ensures a global business environment at all times.
Climate
The climate provides a perfect living and working environment. There are no extremes temperatures, with the average winter temperature rising up to 12-°C (54-°F). This coupled with a rich cultural heritage, historic trading and business traditions, makes Malta a reliable centre for Mediterranean commerce.
Time
Malta is on central European time (CET), that is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter and two hours from the last Sunday in March until the last Sunday in October.
Currency
The national currency is the Euro.
Population
As at year 2005, Malta population was 402,668 of which 199,580 are male and 203,088 are female. Both English and Maltese are official languages with Italian being widely spoken. |
