A complete historical overview from prehistoric settlers to the British Empire
Introduction
Malta’s strategic position in the central Mediterranean has made it a focal point of civilisation for over 7,000 years. From prehistoric temple builders to imperial powers, the islands have been shaped by successive cultures, each leaving a lasting imprint on Malta’s identity, architecture, language, and governance.
Prehistoric Malta (c. 5200–700 BC)
Malta’s earliest inhabitants developed one of the world’s most remarkable prehistoric cultures, best known for constructing the megalithic temple complexes such as Ġgantija and Ħaġar Qim. These societies left no written records but created advanced architectural and ritual landscapes.
Phoenician and Punic Malta (c. 700–218 BC)
The Phoenicians established Malta as a maritime trading hub, later absorbed into the Carthaginian (Punic) sphere. The islands became integrated into a wider Mediterranean network of commerce, culture, and religion.
Roman Malta (218 BC – c. 395 AD)
Malta became part of the Roman Republic during the Second Punic War in 218 BC. Under Roman rule, the islands prospered, adopting Latin culture, law, and infrastructure. Tradition associates Malta with the shipwreck of Saint Paul in 60 AD.
Byzantine Malta (c. 395 – 870 AD)
Following the division of the Roman Empire, Malta came under Byzantine control. This period is less documented but maintained continuity of Christian traditions and imperial administration.
Arab Rule in Malta (870 – 1091 AD)
In 870 AD, Arab forces conquered Malta, introducing new agricultural systems, irrigation techniques, and linguistic influences that shaped the Maltese language. This period marked a major cultural transformation.
Medieval Malta – Norman and Aragonese Rule (1091 – 1530)
Malta was reconquered by Norman forces in 1091 and later integrated into the Kingdom of Sicily and the Crown of Aragon. By 1283, Malta was firmly under Aragonese control, forming part of the wider European feudal system.
The Knights Hospitaller (1530 – 1798)
In 1530, Emperor Charles V granted Malta to the Order of St John. The Knights transformed Malta into a fortified stronghold, most famously defending it during the Great Siege of 1565 and building Valletta.
The French Occupation (1798 – 1800)
Napoleon seized Malta on 12 June 1798 during his Egyptian campaign. French reforms were introduced but met strong local resistance, leading to a Maltese uprising.
British Malta (1800 – 1964)
Following the expulsion of the French in 1800, Malta came under British protection and was formally declared a Crown Colony in 1813. The islands became a key naval base within the British Empire until independence in 1964.
Independent Malta (1964 to date)
On 21 September 1964, Malta officially gained independence. The country remained a constitutional monarchy within the Commonwealth, with the British monarch as head of state represented locally by a Governor-General.