Malta : an island where past and present go hand in hand

Abstract

The newcomer can immediately discover the real essence of that stretch of land permanently lurking alone, in apparent oblivion of all, in the middle of the Mediterranean: that rock is equally small and complete. It has consistently attracted the attention of numerous powerful nations, and some of them have also managed to fall in love with her. Eventually they have left their indelible mark on her character, and this has gradually grown into one complex phenomenon; all its layers tell a different story, but lead towards one substantial conclusion: assimilation. That is how history has been equally benevolent and despotic with the place. Since Malta is also a prominent tourist resort in the region, it boasts of its past as it seeks to justify its pretences according to the demands of the present. [excerpt]