Life in Malta in Roman times

Abstract

Malta and Gozo before Roman times had evolved each as a city-state, and become Roma'IJJised, at least in administration, by the time of the early Empire. For ~nscriptions show that both these self-governing units became incorporated within the Roman state, about the beginning of the second century. Remains and records of Roma'lli times in Malta and Gozo are scanty, but along with the work of archaeologists and the few testimonies of ancient writers, they do give us a general idea and even some interesting details on the elements and classes of the population; on the general level of prosperity and on trade, on the administration, social life and standards of living of the urban society, and, less indicated except for one vital point, the religious aspect of Maltese life.