The island Malta was generally known for its military, religious knight order of the Johanniters who had established themselves on the island. After the Crusades during which they distinguished themselves as hospital helpers, the Johanniters took care to secure the Mediterranean Sea against the Turks.

Malta is an island country in the Southern Europe, located in the central Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and North Africa. The archipelago's main inhabited islands are Malta, Gozo and Comino, with the capital at Valletta. It has a population of 574,250, spread over an area of 316 km2 (122 sq mi). Malta has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has been ruled by many powers, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, the Knights Hospitaller and the British Empire. It played an important strategic role during World War II and was awarded the George Cross in 1942. The country gained its independence in 1964 and became a republic in 1974. Malta is a parliamentary republic and a member of the European Union and Commonwealth of Nations. The official languages are Maltese and English and it is predominantly Catholic. The country is known for its strategic location, tourism industry, and its architectural and historical monuments, several of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Author: Nicolaes Visscher II