Sizilien & Malta - Inselhopping im Mittelmeer

About the destination: The Maltese Islands are a melting pot of different cultures that have each played a part in shaping our history, heritage, and lifestyle. While there remains an innate “Malteseness” in everything that we do, influences from past rulers can still be observed in our day-to-day lives. Our language is derived from Semitic roots with Italian influences and is the only language of its kind that is written in Latin script; our Capital City – Valletta – and the Islands’ fortifications, were built by the Order of the Knights of St John; our national flag bears the George Cross, an award for the country’s display of valour during the Second World War, during which Malta served as the naval base for the British; and the list goes on. 8000 years of history are condensed into an island of just 316 square kilometres, so history can be found in every corner of the island. From the oldest free-standing temple structures of the Megalithic Temples and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum to incredible feats of fortified architecture like the “silent” city of Mdina and the Capital City of Valletta, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you will also find that there is a more modern side to the Maltese Islands too. After over 160 years of British rule, Malta became an Independent nation in 1964. Since then, the Island has continued to develop into the warm and welcoming Island that we know today. From beautiful sunny beaches, to fun-filled leisure activities, luxurious experiences and, of course, historical, and cultural excursions, the Maltese Islands have something to offer to every type of traveller. An open, safe, and multicultural destination, Malta has always been a melting pot that embraces a diversity of cultures. Today, our country is one of the most inclusive places in the world, happily welcoming thousands of travellers of all kinds, shapes, sizes, colours, and creeds every year. Malta Facts • The Maltese Islands boast 300 days of sunshine throughout the year. • Malta is less than a three hour flight away from most major European airports. • The island’s total area covers just 316 km squared, meaning travel times are often kept under 20 minutes! • Maltese and English are the two official languages on the island, although many people are also fluent in Italian. • The Capital City, Valletta, was the European Capital of Culture in 2018 and is one of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites found on the island. • Malta joined the European Union on 1st May 2004 & adopted the Euro on New Year’s Day, 2008.

About the destination: Catania is the second largest city in Sicily. Buried seven times by fierce eruptions of the Etna volcano and several earthquakes, much of its monuments have been destroyed. Nonetheless, the old town is well maintained, so much so, that it was declared a World Heritage Site in 2002. In the city center visitors will be able to enjoy the major feature of the city: its baroque architecture. The main examples are the Cathedral Square, Piazza del Duomo ,with the Elephant Fountain, the adorned Cathedral, founded in the 11th century on the ruins of the ancient baths and the impressive 13th century Ursino Castle. The remains of the Roman and Greek heritage can still be witnessed at the former Acropolis of Katane that includes the Roman Theatre, built by Greeks and reconstructed by Romans, the Odeon and the Amphitheatre. Chaotic, noisy and boisterous, Catania’s nightlife is buzzing, hundreds of bars, clubs and eateries are at hand where to get infected with the joie de vivre of the city’s population.