Malta
The Maltese islands form an archipelago in the middle of the Mediterranean. Malta is the largest of the group and by far the most popular as a holiday destination with well-developed modern resorts, harbours suitable for yachts and cruise liners and an international airport.
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Although Malta is famous today as a laid-back sunshine holiday destination it has a turbulent history. Not just once, but twice, events on this tiny rock have shaped the course of world history. First was the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, when Malta became the decisive battleground in the conflict between Islam and Christianity. A force of 40,000 Turks fought the Maltese defenders and the Crusader Knights of St John, who had made Malta their base. After huge losses on both sides, the Ottoman Empire was defeated. Such was the gratitude of the Pope and European kings that Malta was rewarded with riches that helped endow Malta with the country churches and official buildings that are still very much in evidence today.
Its second period of strategic significance was during World War II, when its geographical position made it the focal point of Mediterranean and North African conflicts. It endured 154 days and nights of Blitz, and was recorded as the most bombed place on earth. But the islanders were resilient and Malta continued to operate as a vital supply point for Allied convoys. Britain awarded the island, and by implication every islander, the George Cross, the highest award for civilian gallantry.
