tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85035026654282908402024-03-06T07:19:37.712+01:00Snapshots of an IslandMalta - it's history, myths, traditions and people.Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.comBlogger177125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-802465142692339712017-03-08T22:32:00.001+01:002017-03-08T22:33:51.729+01:00The Azure Window: the end of an icon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azure_Window" target="_blank">The Azure Window</a> was a natural limestone arch that rose
majestically out of the blue Mediterranean sea to a height of 28 metres (92
feet). It was located in Dwejra, Gozo. </div>
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The arch was created when two limestone caves collapsed on some
unrecorded day in history. It was a natural attraction much-loved both by the
Maltese and by thousands of tourists who visited it on a daily basis and
captured its unique beauty in countless images.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPy-QLA-BP62lmOskU_MT3A2C-bYArt7oDaoKKOV39S92wxNvaLBpMLgsm4fnXWxJz3uiJybJqhAoAMEH1DjGeRjyVaOdBsKaXht5sfDY5gbgrmtFhoxP_T9ThTWXD8d__lP86nayaTg/s1600/Azure+Window+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcPy-QLA-BP62lmOskU_MT3A2C-bYArt7oDaoKKOV39S92wxNvaLBpMLgsm4fnXWxJz3uiJybJqhAoAMEH1DjGeRjyVaOdBsKaXht5sfDY5gbgrmtFhoxP_T9ThTWXD8d__lP86nayaTg/s640/Azure+Window+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"> After a night of storms and gale-force winds, the arch
succumbed to the elements and it collapsed into the sea this morning. Nothing is
left where the arch once stood, not even the stacks. This iconic feature is gone
forever and the Azure Window will not only live on in our memories and our
photographs.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfWYXNKtPPvKMCK1IsXJaxI66KzVM8bPejZjYCIodVh2PHAm6tG-jpCrHORwTpNrHPREuKsOnQZU7S8XNDrWXY9Z3zo6umZPC7yxyHO9PU-JN_rLbKa12f9A1ZdTqX3PMyFDYstQmGTjY/s1600/Azure+Window+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfWYXNKtPPvKMCK1IsXJaxI66KzVM8bPejZjYCIodVh2PHAm6tG-jpCrHORwTpNrHPREuKsOnQZU7S8XNDrWXY9Z3zo6umZPC7yxyHO9PU-JN_rLbKa12f9A1ZdTqX3PMyFDYstQmGTjY/s640/Azure+Window+%25282%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Thankfully, in this age of social media, images and videos of
the Azure Window are plentiful but it is still sad to think that there will be
generations of children who will grow up without seeing it for themselves.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrN-gmlf9O0_HW4KibPdvTUSN6aBdWr4yH16-OBnMUqqKnO8u9sLB8D36-AFC5FAHYSQio6Mpuwng0KKBYcmCbuQciQpkKgGkmb6il2bepHFxDkoQgLZnlOrYAeVrL4AA4ZgDDLRLznq0/s1600/Azure+Window+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrN-gmlf9O0_HW4KibPdvTUSN6aBdWr4yH16-OBnMUqqKnO8u9sLB8D36-AFC5FAHYSQio6Mpuwng0KKBYcmCbuQciQpkKgGkmb6il2bepHFxDkoQgLZnlOrYAeVrL4AA4ZgDDLRLznq0/s640/Azure+Window+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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During its lifetime, the Azure Window was the backdrop for
some scenes in movies like <em><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082186/" target="_blank">Clash of the Titans</a> (1981)</em>, <em><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0245844/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Count
of Monte Cristo</a> (2002)</em> and in the TV series <em><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0944947/" target="_blank">Game of
Thrones</a></em>. In 2016, clothing designer Hugo Boss shot an ad campaign
featuring cliff diver David Colturi jumping off of the Azure Window.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/171752459" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/171752459">Hugo Boss - Superblack
suit</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/kopterworx">Kopterworx</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
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The photos in this article were taken almost exactly 14 years
ago on 5th March 2003.</div>
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Related links:</div>
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<li>
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<a href="http://allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2012/07/malta-and-movies-2-clash-of-titans-1981.html" target="_blank">Malta and the Movies: Clash of the Titians (1981)</a></div>
</li>
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<a href="http://www.malta.com/en/attraction/natural-sites/dwejra" target="_blank">Dwejra and the Azure Window</a></div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-35488785730558525682016-06-20T22:49:00.001+02:002016-07-25T21:56:28.868+02:00Things to do in Malta in Summer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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If you're visiting Malta in summer you may be tempted to spend your days at the beach. But Malta has a lot more to offer during the summer months than sun, sea and sand. So I have compiled a list of ordinary and not so ordinary things that you can do in Malta during the summer months.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">1.Catch up on the latest music at the Isle of MTV concert</span></strong></blockquote>
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Although this event is aimed at the young, you will still find several older people among the audience. This concert has been held in Malta since 2006 so, this year, it will be celebrating it's tenth edition. Usually held at the end of June, this year's concert will take place on the 28th of June (the eve of a public holiday) at the usual venue - the Granaries in Floriana. This year's line-up includes Jess Glynne, Wiz Khalifa, Steve Aoki and Malta's own Airport Impressions. The concert starts at 6.30pm. General admission is free. More information <a href="http://www.isleofmtv.com/tv/">here</a>.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">2. Keep yourself cool with an ice-cream from Amorino</span></strong></div>
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<a href="http://www.amorino.com/en/philosophy-artisanal-gelato-maker.html">Amorino</a> is one of the latest ice-cream parlours to open up in Malta but it is definitely one of my favourites. The ice-cream flavours are distinct and delicious, with my personal favourites being chocolate and amarena. </div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FLaike8_GWI/V2hWqSXLpKI/AAAAAAAAe1Y/-c15TV07Hxg/s1600-h/IMG_20160417_133240726%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_20160417_133240726" border="0" height="451" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IDBp9zck0lQ/V2hWq-S_KsI/AAAAAAAAe1c/B0wQxlbyKbE/IMG_20160417_133240726_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_20160417_133240726" width="595" /></a></div>
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Apart from ice-creams, Amorino also has a good selection of sorbets, ice-creams macarons and other sweet treats.</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lULAoEgcRuw/V2hWrXrebFI/AAAAAAAAe1g/x1VRzj-tWzs/s1600-h/IMG_20160417_133112482%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_20160417_133112482" border="0" height="451" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-70k2lQ34fUs/V2hWr_Fg9CI/AAAAAAAAe1k/SlQ1VYiagcc/IMG_20160417_133112482_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_20160417_133112482" width="595" /></a></div>
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<strong>Amorino, 36 Republic Street, Valletta</strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">3. Go for a swim</span></strong></div>
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This suggestion, of course, is a no-brainer. There is no better way to cool down than to take a swim in the turquoise-blue waters for which this island is so renowned. There are a number of beaches that are easily accessible by public transport, so it is not necessary to hire your own car to get to them. While sandy beaches are generally more popular, the scenery at rocky beaches usually tends to be more spectacular. Bear in mind that all beaches will be crowded on Sundays and public holidays.</div>
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Popular sandy beaches: Ghadira, Golden Bay, Paradise Bay, Gnejna, Pretty Bay.</div>
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Popular rocky beaches: Ghar Lapsi, Sliema seafront, St Peter's Pool (this bay is not easily accessible), Bahar ic-Caghaq.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAMhSlDaG8NIgSUS1oSD7zXH7tU6lWAXqYXd5GiAbS53alFO_X4-lX4fh2spxPBl2KiQqLgB9vafm_wZTv3GoV9ZiEwzMaxuclwbwwOxQzrXpp-PNPpSE-EtOZ75O4tMBuUroiafD0ZQ/s1600-h/Bahar%252520ic-Caghaq%252520%25252834%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Bahar ic-Caghaq (34)" border="0" height="451" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rub7yP7HHsc/V2hWs97JluI/AAAAAAAAe1w/tI7Iqn7TA7A/Bahar%252520ic-Caghaq%252520%25252834%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Bahar ic-Caghaq (34)" width="595" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">4. Watch the sun set</span></strong></div>
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Hot summer days ensure that sunsets are particularly fiery and the sun paints the sky with a variety of colours before disappearing over the horizon. You can catch a good sunset from anywhere along the western coast. You can read about three of the best places to enjoy sunsets <a href="http://allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2012/05/best-places-to-enjoy-sunsets.html">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sC9HlCyINqY/V2hWtefchmI/AAAAAAAAe14/ieEWw7HNe_Y/s1600-h/First-Swim-of-the-Year-196.jpg"><img alt="First Swim of the Year (19)" border="0" height="451" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UssoCMRTsq0/V2hWtuVmzAI/AAAAAAAAe18/8_ZCscSKxo8/First-Swim-of-the-Year-19_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="First Swim of the Year (19)" width="595" /></a></div>
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<em>Sunset at Gnejna Bay</em></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">5. Take a harbour cruise</span></strong></div>
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Harbour cruises are a great way of learning about the history of Grand Harbour and the cities that surround it, of seeing the scenery from a different perspective and of keeping cool - the moving boats ensure this.</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kv7lwMc97fE/V2hWunqpaRI/AAAAAAAAe2I/PFksnFxxzLg/s1600-h/Harbour-cruise-1263.jpg"><img alt="Harbour cruise (126)" border="0" height="451" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LXaOpxXd_7g/V2hWvKRvQ_I/AAAAAAAAe2M/EoZ6bNeS3TY/Harbour-cruise-126_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Harbour cruise (126)" width="595" /></a></div>
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Most harbour cruises depart from Tigne Seafront (the Ferries) in Sliema. </div>
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Popular harbour cruises are organised by <a href="http://www.captainmorgan.com.mt/harbour-cruises?l=1">Captain Morgan</a> and <a href="http://luzzucruises.com/2-harbours-cruise.html">Luzzu Cruises</a>.</div>
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Prices start from 16 EUR for adults and 13 EUR for children.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">6. Experience the mystique of the summer solstice at the Neolithic temples of Mnajdra or Hagar Qim</span></strong></div>
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Heritage Malta organises tours at the temples of <a href="http://allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/search/label/neolithic">Mnajdra</a> and Hagar Qim on the day of the summer solstice. During these tours, visitors will be able to experience for themselves the beauty and mystery of these ancient temples that are considered to be amongst the oldest man-made structures in the world.</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f1EbxHOMadM/V2hWvRZaVEI/AAAAAAAAe2Q/4N4vaUHSTmI/s1600-h/Hagar-Qim--Mnajdra-017-0013.jpg"><img alt="Hagar Qim & Mnajdra 017-001" border="0" height="787" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eKeshIJCw64/V2hWv7ufQNI/AAAAAAAAe2U/a_MnxWOCs_4/Hagar-Qim--Mnajdra-017-001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Hagar Qim & Mnajdra 017-001" width="595" /></a></div>
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Admission to these tours is €25.00.</div>
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More information may be found on the <a href="http://shop.heritagemalta.org/index.asp">Heritage Malta</a> website. This event usually takes place on June 20th and 21st.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">7. Attend a <em>festa</em></span></strong></div>
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If exuberant religious celebrations, fireworks and band marches are your thing, attending a <em>festa</em> is an experience not to be missed. These celebrations in honour of the patron saint of a town or village take place every weekend from the beginning of May till mid-September. The <em>festa</em> season culminates in mid-August when seven villages in Malta and two in Gozo celebrate the feast of the Assumption of Mary.</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1C4Wuycz-2M/V2hWwaSCwDI/AAAAAAAAe2c/y03irs2dFbg/s1600-h/Rabat-at-Feast-time-93.jpg"><img alt="Rabat at Feast-time (9)" border="0" height="787" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1N-_Oge4760/V2hWw4VVi1I/AAAAAAAAe2k/a79YpJ13IDM/Rabat-at-Feast-time-9_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Rabat at Feast-time (9)" width="595" /></a></div>
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It would be good to keep in mind that a <em>festa</em> is not for the faint-hearted. The bangs from the fireworks are ear-shattering, the church bells ring non-stop, the air is thick with the smell of sulphur and the streets will be crowded. This is one celebration that you will either love or hate.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">8. Spend a night with the most famous bard of them all at San Anton Palace gardens</span></strong></div>
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Every year, the popular theatre group MADC performs one of William Shakespeare's plays at San Anton Palace gardens. San Anton gardens surround <a href="http://allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2009/10/story-of-palace.html">the palace</a> that was built as a summer residence for the Grand Masters by Grand Master Antoine de Paule. Today it is the official residence of the President of Malta. </div>
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This year, MADC will be performing the popular comedy <a href="http://www.madc.com.mt/en/upcomingproductions/productions/43/a-midsummer-nights-dream.htm">'A Midsummer's Night Dream'</a>. Performances will take place between the 15th and 24th of July.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">9. Discover your favourite wine at a Wine Festival</span></strong></div>
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Two of the major wine producers in Malta, Marsovin and Delicata, organise a wine festival during the summer months. </div>
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The <a href="http://www.marsovinwinefestival.com/">Marsovin Wine Festival</a> usually takes place at Hastings Garden (Valletta). This year it will be held between July 15th and 17th from 8pm to 1 am.</div>
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The <a href="http://delicata.com/wine-festival-valletta/valletta-malta-2016/">Delicata Wine Festival</a> will celebrate it's 15th anniversary at its usual venue, the <a href="http://allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2011/10/upper-barrakka-gardens.html">Upper Barrakka Gardens</a> in Valletta. This wine festival will take place between the 4th and 7th August from 7pm till midnight.</div>
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The venues for both wine festivals offer fantastic views of Marsamxett Harbour and Grand Harbour respectively. A variety of food will also be on sale and a number of local bands and musicians will provide entertainment throughout the night. However, without a doubt, the star of both festivals will be the wine.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">10. If your taste in music is a bit more eclectic be sure not to miss the Malta Jazz Festival</span></strong></div>
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The <a href="http://www.maltajazzfestival.org/">Malta Jazz Festival</a>, organised by the Malta Arts Council, is now in its 26th edition. It usually features well-known artists in this genre - and this year is no exception. A variety of styles will be represented by the most significant bands and musicians in this sector. This year's performers include Snarky Puppy, Omer Avital, Mike Stern and Bill Evans.<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div>
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Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-10128181559226238362016-05-09T22:28:00.001+02:002016-05-09T22:28:51.092+02:00Wayside Chapels: St Michael 'is-Sancier'<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BTyD4bImznA/VzDy4lCdTRI/AAAAAAAAehM/ggGI6mtb-ls/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%2525288%252529-001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (8)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (8)-001" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DmQAsy45Yyg/VzDy5MB7QpI/AAAAAAAAehQ/zB3HY5_64Rs/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%2525288%252529-001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="389"></a></p> <p align="justify">The chapel of St Michael nicknamed 'is-Sancier' (the sincere) is located on the outskirts of the town of Rabat. It is one of the oldest chapels still standing in its original form. Low and squat, it is partly built of rough-hewn stones, blending in with the rural landscape that surrounds it. The chapel of St Michael is located in a zone that has yielded many shreds of Punic, Roman and medieval pottery. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HMHjAG2GBpg/VzDy5n99p1I/AAAAAAAAehU/Xn_1RdJhTbY/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%2525289%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (9)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (9)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZuBsj50FuUQ/VzDy6JteHNI/AAAAAAAAehY/EyegdUxbStc/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%2525289%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gYIaryLmQGE/VzDy6UILX-I/AAAAAAAAehc/rtHOVTKlMqw/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252811%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (11)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (11)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-68j5RK7SNmA/VzDy6xqKssI/AAAAAAAAehg/EGbMulft5ds/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252811%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">St Michael's was probably constructed during the middle of the fifteenth century. In 1678 it was deconsecrated and the titular painting of St Michael was transferred to the parish church of St Paul, in Rabat. For many years the chapel was used by farmers as a store for tools and as a cow-shed. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4lrdZXf5v-Q/VzDy7QdNAbI/AAAAAAAAehk/gOMB-Ug_vb4/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252812%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (12)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (12)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_Nocx7Sd-5I/VzDy7_asnTI/AAAAAAAAeho/3Y-yHs08eTk/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252812%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vVyzqFFjCiA/VzDy8a7YbMI/AAAAAAAAehs/ODt03OqyZrE/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252814%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (14)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (14)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OQelo1W6bTw/VzDy8s6eW4I/AAAAAAAAehw/jdexXzYJe3g/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252814%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">In 1981 the chapel was cleaned and restored by a group of volunteers but, since that time, it has fallen into disrepair, with all sorts of weeds and other types of small plants growing on the façade, together with an insidious type of wild ivy, whose roots and tendrils are wreaking havoc on the crumbling, centuries-old stone-work. The side-entrance is almost completely obstructed by bamboo and the interior of the chapel is ravaged by rising damp.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-agE7GF1uf2s/VzDy9KBsiqI/AAAAAAAAeh0/iVeLT-eGsTM/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252810%252529-001%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (10)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (10)-001" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lJI_SMUpViM/VzDy9mXRQnI/AAAAAAAAeh4/fegNKJ2CpRw/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252810%252529-001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-61oeFeRD_0M/VzDy959_ZuI/AAAAAAAAeh8/Ov8FehVqDlE/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252818%252529-001%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (18)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (18)-001" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cA4wAK9Ma_w/VzDy-TlPaUI/AAAAAAAAeiA/4tyWh5hxnxc/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252818%252529-001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ku6H8Qdj9fk/VzDy-1ccNmI/AAAAAAAAeiE/J0qJ9HY0rjk/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252817%252529-001%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (17)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (17)-001" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pn2b7RXWHoQ/VzDzAqI49eI/AAAAAAAAeiI/yqoygDkp7pI/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252817%252529-001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a></p> <p align="justify">It is a pity that one of the few surviving structures from the medieval period in Malta is rotting away with no foreseeable plans in the near future to carry out the professional restoration that it so badly deserves.</p> <p>Further reading:</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Wayside-Chapels-Malta-Gozo/dp/9990993068">A Hundred Wayside Chapels of Malta and Gozo by Kilin</a></li></ul>Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-84108579266015965902016-03-01T22:23:00.001+01:002016-03-01T22:23:13.354+01:00The Lazzaretto on Manoel Island<p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5P9QpJLDNsg/VtYILQ1efrI/AAAAAAAAeJ0/ESdjRG4grQo/s1600-h/Valletta-473.jpg"><img title="Valletta (47)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (47)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2ua9_pCO1Ls/VtYIL4GLu7I/AAAAAAAAeJ4/1ywfD3x5-jM/Valletta-47_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="343"></a></p> <p align="justify">A <em>lazzaretto</em> is a quarantine station for maritime travellers. Passengers arriving on board ships from infected countries had to spend a number of days (usually around forty) in quarantine before being allowed to mingle with the inhabitants. This was done so as to ensure that any symptoms of the disease would be manifested and, as a result of this preventive measure, the infection would not be spread to the rest of the population.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MQDVbLBQJG4/VtYIMhRDRHI/AAAAAAAAeJ8/qUbC7COKXVg/s1600-h/Harbour-cruise-6-00116.jpg"><img title="Harbour cruise (6)-001" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Harbour cruise (6)-001" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f0Hs27z5J74/VtYINY_iSvI/AAAAAAAAeKA/0MzWimBkUsU/Harbour-cruise-6-0011_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a></p> <p align="justify">The first <em>lazzaretto</em> was set up on Manoel Island in 1592 during an outbreak of the plague. At that time, temprary wooden huts were set up. These were later demolished. In 1643, Grand Master Lascaris, built a permanent structure in the same place to control the periodic outbreaks of plague and cholera on board visiting ships. The building consists of two floors with eight rooms on each floor surrounding a central courtyard. A series of arches runs along the facade facing the sea. Persons who died in the <em>lazzaretto</em> were buried on Manoel Island in one of six cemeteries that existed there at different times.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zfVgGEDRVh8/VtYINyyHwgI/AAAAAAAAeKE/Kt_GAQsLRGI/s1600-h/Harbour-cruise-87.jpg"><img title="Harbour cruise (8)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Harbour cruise (8)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jxrEERJ314Q/VtYIOignx1I/AAAAAAAAeKI/f0CmZLTtLkc/Harbour-cruise-8_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">Additional buldings were added from time to time, depending on the exigencies of the moment. In 1670, Grand Master Nicholas Cotoner made some improvements on the building constructed by Lascaris. Stores and warehosues were erected to house merchandise from infected ports, together with facilities for disinfection and fumigation. The <em>lazzaretto</em> was enlarged further between 1837-38 under the governship of Sir Henry Frederick Bouverie.</p> <p align="justify">Some famous visitors kept in isolation in the <em>lazzaretto</em> on Manoel Island were Lord Byron, Sir Walter Scott, William Thackeray, the Reverend (later Cardinal) John Henry Newman and a young Benjamin Disraeli.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-krcjrqvYYzg/VtYIPFKFFII/AAAAAAAAeKM/bIu8eChKXpU/s1600-h/Harbour-cruise-77.jpg"><img title="Harbour cruise (7)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Harbour cruise (7)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AqwRjHw5JdA/VtYIP6wWCZI/AAAAAAAAeKQ/OLDJKZhDJLQ/Harbour-cruise-7_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">The <em>lazzaretto</em> on Manoel island was used as recently as 1937 when there was an outbreak of the plague. During WW2 it was damaged and eventually fell into a state of disrepair. In spite of plans to restore it, it is still an abandoned shell, slowly crumbling into the sea.</p> <p align="justify">Related links:</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://melitensiawth.com/incoming/Index/Melita%20Historica/MH.09(1984-87)/MH.9(1984)4/orig05.pdf">A Tour of the Lazzaretto Buildings by Dr Paul Cassar</a></li> <li><a href="http://mhs.eu.pn/mh/19662.html">Melita Historica: Journal of the Malta Historical Society - The Quarantine Service and the Lazzaretto of Malta by Joseph Galea</a></li></ul>Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-15903096839428751902016-01-13T23:03:00.001+01:002016-01-13T23:03:47.351+01:00The Grandmaster's Palace<p align="justify">This palace, originally built in 1569, was purchased in the 1570s by Grand Master Jean de la Cassiere and subsequently enlarged by Maltese architect Girolamo Cassar. Situated in the heart of Valletta, opposite <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2010/01/st-georges-square.html">St George's Square</a>, it is the capital city's largest palace. The facade, designed in a rather severe Mannerist style, belies the richness of the interior. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EbtFgFkPo5E/VpbJcYpwsCI/AAAAAAAAdwM/XGEaFuUEICI/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%2525281%252529%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (1)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tL0f7MV2ZcU/VpbJdcN4YkI/AAAAAAAAdwU/K6te4pgEPeU/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%2525281%252529_thumb%25255B16%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a1t4FoP7AmU/VpbJeHVfSwI/AAAAAAAAdwc/el8Rw-tMDk8/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%2525289%252529%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (9)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (9)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2tukIdxdOQI/VpbJfAjsJEI/AAAAAAAAdwk/g1x7Nnbvo28/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%2525289%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">From the 16th century, until the Knights left Malta in 1798, the palace served as the official residence of the Grand Master of the order of St John and was known as the Magisterial Palace. During the British period it became the Governor's Palace. It currently hosues the offices of the President of Malta. The palace was also the seat of Malta's first constitutional parliament in 1921.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5xpwzEF4BhQ/VpbJgV_VG9I/AAAAAAAAdws/c5FvpVGL14U/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252810%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (10)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (10)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mjQai9HKZnw/VpbJhRY1OlI/AAAAAAAAdw0/3MEEQfTlQbY/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252810%252529_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">Although the Grandmaster's Palace occupies a whole city block, it is nowhere near as grand, or on as large a scale, as European palaces like Versailles, the Schonbrunn or any other palace built for royalty - after all, even though the Knights were members of some of the most prominent aristocratic families of Europe, they were a religious order. Which does not mean they lived in misery because the palace has its own innate charm and architectural grandeur. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VxmUGeME6jo/VpbJiD51aYI/AAAAAAAAdw8/g7LJdoM5voQ/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252826%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (26)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (26)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dGQWMx46CYQ/VpbJjHEk6GI/AAAAAAAAdxE/BjPRml7_tT4/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252826%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">A unique and intact set of Gobelin tapesteries named “Les Teintures des Indes”, a gift to the Order from Grand Master Ramon Perellos in 1710, decorate the Council Chamber (sorry no photos allowed but you may take a virtual tour by going to the link at the bottom of this post). The ceilings and corridors are lavishly decorated with frescoes of naval battles, coats of arms and allegorical scenes. Portraits of the Grand Masters hang on the walls and suits of armour line the corridors.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0N6UMbiKcB0/VpbJj89DMwI/AAAAAAAAdxI/SkZC-z1AFCs/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252812%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (12)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (12)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7PZyUo2tn94/VpbJkoz9NcI/AAAAAAAAdxU/RIXpg0o35lU/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252812%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--frTotLrQI0/VpbJlf0puwI/AAAAAAAAdxY/GmdMKs366vI/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252825%252529%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (25)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (25)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CGmkYTz25GQ/VpbJmAUCT7I/AAAAAAAAdxk/TolCLi0KLps/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252825%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a></p> <p align="justify">Five State rooms are open to the public, including the Red and Yellow State Rooms, the Hall of the Supreme Council and the State Dining Room. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--_XKFbpVgIE/VpbJm2UOODI/AAAAAAAAdxo/tbI0RpujhL8/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252816%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (16)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (16)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5fvHnBvcpUc/VpbJnrfehYI/AAAAAAAAdxw/Z8PySgfue-0/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252816%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FKkiXG1hDRk/VpbJoZSes_I/AAAAAAAAdx8/0UEKv1-B2YY/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252817%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (17)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (17)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c5o-0e2fryI/VpbJpGTdGPI/AAAAAAAAdyA/qTUa2y8UxZ4/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252817%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TvbQEFAr6PU/VpbJqApI0qI/AAAAAAAAdyM/9fiQFkNHppE/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252829%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (29)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (29)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xH5CqCvdcLw/VpbJqkFdr_I/AAAAAAAAdyQ/P5EbU8XyZpk/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252829%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-voPFtUJjulQ/VpbJrgAxHzI/AAAAAAAAdyc/4Ez8dXBSEx8/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252831%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (31)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (31)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WvEQfeUsMlU/VpbJsdgCP4I/AAAAAAAAdyg/lu1LQvcLaLE/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252831%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a></p> <p>The palace is built around two courtyards - one of which is dominated by a bronze statue of Neptune. The palace armoury is located on the ground floor, in what used to be the palace stables (more on the armoury some other time).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uKdU6bG3T0Q/VpbJtgFqtbI/AAAAAAAAdys/NjWH_l9dqc0/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252814%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (14)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (14)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHSvtKof9dhXVCVARCUJSChy37ub5utZeViYw4Z45ynr9VF8K-LHVZQrQ-UYGDlbzxRKlkJCZ1U4qO9705eTIDGNsU-CtrVl9N-ypVlzN-DCO2DLYBtphj6ULCYntdOHYzhJjD4L80kU/?imgmax=800" width="595" height="451"></a></p> <p align="center"><em>The Grandmaster's Palace, Palace Square, Valletta</em></p> <p align="center"><em>Opening hours:</em></p> <p align="center"><em>Monday to Sunday: 09.00 - 17.00hrs<br>Last admission: 16.30hrs</em></p> <p align="center"><em>Closed on 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January & Good Friday. The Palace and Armoury may be also closed on other days due to state functions and activities.</em> <p align="center"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pOD6Ti9GBPw/VpbJu3eJF0I/AAAAAAAAdy4/RAAdlCtvRko/s1600-h/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252839%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="The palace and the armoury (39)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The palace and the armoury (39)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4CnDMf_mF2Y/VpbJwKAUynI/AAAAAAAAdzE/mbsmYQJ4WeM/The%252520palace%252520and%252520the%252520armoury%252520%25252839%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787"></a> <p>Useful links:</p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2012/12/snapshots-of-courtyards-at-grand.html">Snapshots of … The Courtyards at the Grandmaster's Palace</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2012/12/snapshots-of-courtyards-at-grand.html">The Palace Staterooms - A Virtual Tour</a></li> <li><a href="http://maltain360.com/page.aspx?ref=110005951">The Tapestry Chamber - A Virtual Tour</a></li></ul>Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-43539101553551917582015-11-26T22:29:00.001+01:002015-11-26T22:29:42.683+01:00Snapshots of … More shop-fronts of Valletta<p align="justify">I don’t know whether you agree with me but I find the old shop-fronts of Valletta endlessly fascinating. Without knowing it, it seems that I’ve taken it upon myself to photograph all the ones I can find before they disappear forever.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qcK7k1Z8qP4/Vld5qQAm8vI/AAAAAAAAdYc/wPRBjBnO3f0/s1600-h/Valletta-794.jpg"><img title="Valletta (79)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (79)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VMrNPR3Yi7M/Vld5rL0r-7I/AAAAAAAAdYk/9eRO5eOGLrI/Valletta-79_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="1041" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bUP20Az1ZF0/Vld5sBZfQGI/AAAAAAAAdYs/tyfmm3RzgjY/s1600-h/Valletta-814.jpg"><img title="Valletta (81)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (81)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PDqYn_CTk54/Vld5s5ehp2I/AAAAAAAAdYw/sVxD9gBHGUc/Valletta-81_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CBL0luj14JE/Vld5tklLgsI/AAAAAAAAdY8/UqzZINR8RzA/s1600-h/May-364.jpg"><img title="May (36)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="May (36)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LkW6sx9e3Xw/Vld5uS2P9AI/AAAAAAAAdZA/3psDBtl_-Qo/May-36_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q4NLc2npoSs/Vld5u61xe-I/AAAAAAAAdZM/GMJpKduTmAQ/s1600-h/May-394.jpg"><img title="May (39)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="May (39)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vSOuxihctEI/Vld5vtb8JdI/AAAAAAAAdZU/4wW8xVze1wY/May-39_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="1041" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dntbIReexGk/Vld5wHputrI/AAAAAAAAdZY/GnlNXVquar0/s1600-h/May-414.jpg"><img title="May (41)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="May (41)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q-UOQYH6U-E/Vld5xBjUEJI/AAAAAAAAdZg/LAVmxE27P_g/May-41_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="1041" /></a></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-38908331711462006982015-10-25T21:52:00.001+01:002015-10-25T21:52:30.625+01:00The New {and improved} National War Museum<p align="justify">The National War Museum has moved from the old Drill Hall of lower Fort St Elmo to the actual Fort itself. The entrance ticket is valid for both which means that you can tour the fort while visiting the museum. Fort St Elmo played a crucial role during the siege of 1565. The Knights defended it to the last  man and, when it fell on June 23 1565, no defenders were left alive. But it cost the invading Turks many men and a lot of ammunition. I don’t know whether it was a coincidence or a strange twist of fate, but t he first casualties of World War 2 occurred at Fort St Elmo in June of 1940. Due to its long and varied history, Fort St Elmo deserves a post all to itself so I will leave that to another time. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NlKATzHMfC4/Vi1Au0gDz8I/AAAAAAAAdEk/maH6YaknVew/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520036%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 036" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 036" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4YyHN1XVGNI/Vi1Avo0fwKI/AAAAAAAAdEo/HL-uGDMUuUs/Saint%252520Elmo%252520036_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify">The National War Museum houses a collection of items that date back to prehistoric times. The items are displayed in chronological order and span over four thousand years of history. There is a section dedicated to the Great Siege of 1565 but the biggest, and best, part of the museum is dedicated to the Second World War and the crucial role that  Malta played during those turbulent times. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E8nhGcjJF14/Vi1AwT0EM4I/AAAAAAAAdE0/9MRX1QdMBig/s1600-h/Great%252520Siege%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Great Siege" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Great Siege" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FrS18ioSlHo/Vi1AxdFaD9I/AAAAAAAAdE8/F_0hp021iCI/Great%252520Siege_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="595" /></a></p> <p align="justify">The exhibits vary from anti-aircraft guns, period uniforms of the British forces and items made by German POWs to the Gloster Gladiator nicknamed ‘Faith’ that I had written about <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2012/09/a-plane-called-faith.html" target="_blank">here</a>, the George cross (Malta’s award for gallantry) and President Roosevelt’s jeep ‘Husky’.  </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rka98nDuMM0/Vi1AyLIvexI/AAAAAAAAdFE/sf_D09Z4ZVE/s1600-h/WW2%252520uniforms%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="WW2 uniforms" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="WW2 uniforms" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CvCVeNg0osk/Vi1AyhyVOAI/AAAAAAAAdFI/-xXJDlR0ZgQ/WW2%252520uniforms_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="595" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w3GYvkhQ1Gk/Vi1AzSiBCLI/AAAAAAAAdFQ/hb9uCk1H2M0/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520057%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 057" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 057" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KL5i83ib8Ps/Vi1AznM7BRI/AAAAAAAAdFY/ztKnnpU3ckA/Saint%252520Elmo%252520057_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="329" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mao8cjlOMmE/Vi1A0ft2QyI/AAAAAAAAdFk/49pNk7Fbqvg/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520059%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 059" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 059" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y4KZrQIyeSs/Vi1A04COlGI/AAAAAAAAdFo/cbwpmGGmfrk/Saint%252520Elmo%252520059_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0qCqqfY--j0/Vi1A1p0BJ7I/AAAAAAAAdF0/rnCCMzJxGNE/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520063%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 063" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 063" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SiXiolVUy_I/Vi1A2OFBHfI/AAAAAAAAdF4/Sz9N_wFXVxQ/Saint%252520Elmo%252520063_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cbpB60DVRNM/Vi1A3W_90PI/AAAAAAAAdGE/0brm5VMxIWY/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520071%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 071" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 071" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BdxJFsir8B0/Vi1A3-6nrYI/AAAAAAAAdGI/fklrChL0uHY/Saint%252520Elmo%252520071_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MEJGHxLeP6c/Vi1A4p5Dw2I/AAAAAAAAdGU/j5TZkW4YbCg/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520077%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 077" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 077" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-siBqz_FupT8/Vi1A5aTkj5I/AAAAAAAAdGY/loXTgFJ8trM/Saint%252520Elmo%252520077_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-saruTqokug0/Vi1A511T_YI/AAAAAAAAdGg/wqxidRGQ3NU/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520078%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 078" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 078" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EzbW7zIkjEs/Vi1A6TQ2zqI/AAAAAAAAdGo/NGmkEEcnqsA/Saint%252520Elmo%252520078_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="329" height="432" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GmqCReXoKvY/Vi1A7OFPG1I/AAAAAAAAdGw/_vtsLFMeR74/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520088%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 088" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 088" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mv6r1DqeNhM/Vi1A70iGuWI/AAAAAAAAdG8/JofBIyoYjc8/Saint%252520Elmo%252520088_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dho2DMyvI5Y/Vi1A8RiMsfI/AAAAAAAAdHA/xdHAnsD1tis/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520087%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 087" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 087" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zqnkqaADIqc/Vi1A9MkLvoI/AAAAAAAAdHI/4KOeNZiHHWg/Saint%252520Elmo%252520087_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a></p> <p align="justify">My favourite part of the exhibits was the hall dedicated to the SS Ohio and <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com.mt/2009/08/operation-pedestal.html" target="_blank">Operation Pedestal</a>. Computer generated images projected onto the ground show the progress of the convoy of ships that left Gibraltar en route to Malta. It really puts into perspective the amount of men and ships that paid the ultimate price to save the island.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g8yBVyTp3IM/Vi1A9tM8PYI/AAAAAAAAdHQ/ArrJQPopssk/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520082%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 082" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 082" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z7KmP3SoYV0/Vi1A-UQL1aI/AAAAAAAAdHc/HAEsCOVhhtQ/Saint%252520Elmo%252520082_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KmNrjlfPJlU/Vi1A_P6i84I/AAAAAAAAdHk/Onhh18wUI7M/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520084%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 084" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 084" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xm7qwhpTtwk/Vi1A_1Uh17I/AAAAAAAAdHo/o--lWkvKkhk/Saint%252520Elmo%252520084_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OL8neQQM6jc/Vi1BAWs4IQI/AAAAAAAAdH0/AjYeoeDcNw4/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520085%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 085" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 085" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h_l10VXaPBw/Vi1BBHWq0kI/AAAAAAAAdH4/d6GzajENE2M/Saint%252520Elmo%252520085_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">The new National War Museum is a vast improvement on the old one. There is ample space for all the exhibits, which are all clearly labelled, and information is readily available through photographic panels and audio visual presentations. It is definitely worth a visit.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U6VxQgzsctw/Vi1BCdioWNI/AAAAAAAAdIE/R7baXBJ9YAI/s1600-h/Saint%252520Elmo%252520092%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Saint Elmo 092" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Saint Elmo 092" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iip2gH0pRi4/Vi1BC6A1kAI/AAAAAAAAdII/L0L0AaDpTLs/Saint%252520Elmo%252520092_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="center"><em>The National War Museum, St. Elmo Place, Valletta VLT 1741</em></p> <h6 align="center"><em><font size="3">Opening Hours</font></em></h6> <p align="center"><em>Monday to Sunday: 09.00 - 17.00hrs <br />Last admission at 16.30hrs <br />Closed on 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January & Good Friday</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-43781485717395089362015-09-09T22:24:00.001+02:002015-09-09T22:24:59.863+02:00Margo’s: Pizza perfection<p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i3fDMPlBgQ4/VfCVh0AyatI/AAAAAAAAcYs/1EG3EHOyHcs/s1600-h/June%252520%25252830%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="June (30)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="June (30)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2FSd2FoNZ6Q/VfCVil50D3I/AAAAAAAAcY0/e5rZ5EN9qCY/June%252520%25252830%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="595" /></a></p> <p>Like all good things, we discovered Margo’s quite by accident, a couple of years ago. We had planned on going to another restaurant but it was closed. So we walked around for a while. And then we found Margo’s. We haven’t looked back. We think that they make the best pizzas on the island. The ingredients are simple: a thin sourdough crust, fresh produce and … passion. Margo’s pizzas exude passion. A passion for creating the perfect pizza.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iRgs1jw5F7w/VfCVjp28HjI/AAAAAAAAcY4/GxpBj16YVDk/s1600-h/June%252520%25252824%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="June (24)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="June (24)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2xTsAAIGCmg/VfCVkcLLX1I/AAAAAAAAcZE/YzDsZ0bTdzw/June%252520%25252824%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="1041" /></a></p> <p>My personal favourite is the Cruda but I’ve heard that the Margherita, the New Yorker and the Maltese are pretty awesome too. It’s all a matter of taste, of course. </p> <p>And if you’re craving a sweet something, Margo’s home-made ice-creams will be the perfect ending to your meal. Needless to say, I always have to have a scoop or two of chocolate-flavoured icecream for the road.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P_EU0bnpme8/VfCVleNAE7I/AAAAAAAAcZI/1mzypQcHldA/s1600-h/June%252520%25252827%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="June (27)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="June (27)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g3e2fzf9w80/VfCVmNaK60I/AAAAAAAAcZU/OP4KleiGtxw/June%252520%25252827%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a></p> <p>As for who Margo is, I’m not sure anybody knows.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://margosmalta.com/about.php" target="_blank">Margo’s</a>, 63 Republic Street, Valletta</p> <p><em></em></p> <p><em>This is not a sponsored post and all opinions are strictly my own.</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-19133110325444771572015-08-25T22:04:00.001+02:002015-08-25T22:04:39.301+02:00Blue and Green<p align="justify">Growing up we learnt this rhyme:</p> <p align="justify">Blue and green should never be seen</p> <p align="justify">Without a colour in between</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_3hgY0RtuRw/VdzKTuaXVzI/AAAAAAAAcMc/zuCwaak8V5E/s1600-h/Salib%252520tal-Gholja%25252C%252520Delimara%25252C%252520Marsaxlokk%252520%252528110%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Salib tal-Gholja, Delimara, Marsaxlokk (110)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Salib tal-Gholja, Delimara, Marsaxlokk (110)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jeKIMOgy6kY/VdzKUwx5-_I/AAAAAAAAcMk/UQdidTKCWrk/Salib%252520tal-Gholja%25252C%252520Delimara%25252C%252520Marsaxlokk%252520%252528110%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">But I somehow it seems as if blue and green work well together here. Maybe the limestone wall is acting as the colour ‘in between’. So what do you think? Do you think blue and green look good together?</p> <p align="center"><em>Location: Marsaxlokk, April 2013</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-82038614736361441352015-04-26T22:43:00.001+02:002015-04-26T22:43:57.682+02:00The Garigue in Spring<p align="center"><em>Garigue: shrubby vegetation of dry Mediterranean regions, consisting of spiny or aromatic dwarf shrubs interspersed with colourful ephemeral species (Collins English Dictionary)</em></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-71cd5O3-aFY/VT1N0DhTqqI/AAAAAAAAbGE/4SwBDaQJZmE/s1600-h/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252857%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Congreve Memorial and Wied iz-Zurrieq (57)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Congreve Memorial and Wied iz-Zurrieq (57)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UIMtg19I3eU/VT1N1TfI_oI/AAAAAAAAbGM/ypd1gTZKNNY/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252857%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">At first glance it appears to be a barren stretch of land interspersed with rocks and a few shrubs, bent and stunted by fierce winds. But if you look closer and focus on the little things, you will come to realise that the idea that the garigue is barren is just a misconception. On the contrary, it is teeming with life. You just have to  know where to look for it. In Malta the garigue is most common on cliff-tops close to the shore, especially in areas like Dingli Cliffs, Ghar Lapsi, Migra Ferha, l-Ahrax tal-Mellieha and the stretch of land between the <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/2013/06/neolithic-malta-mnajdra-temples.html" target="_blank">Mnajdra</a> and Hagar Qim temples and Wied iz-Zurrieq. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z259paznFDw/VT1N2q2eHxI/AAAAAAAAbGU/foutDQFtBGM/s1600-h/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%2525283%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img title="Azure Stonecrop" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Azure Stonecrop" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aG8-O7l9VMI/VT1N4J0WZDI/AAAAAAAAbGc/Jdnv4WU92hY/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%2525283%252529_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify">The small pockets of red-brown soil in between the jagged rocks  are shallow and the only plants that will thrive have short roots and are able to withstand long periods without water under a blazing Mediterranean sun. So the plants that do grow are quite tiny and the best way to appreciate them is to get down on your knees and take a close peek. It is well worth the effort, especially in spring,  when the majority of plants will be in flower. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4v0sOfdGi0c/VT1N47iMqNI/AAAAAAAAbGk/CeBAmNhscK4/s1600-h/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252841%252529%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Maltese Pyramidal Orchid" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Maltese Pyramidal Orchid" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TzEG_UB-1Is/VT1N56QrK_I/AAAAAAAAbGs/8IbU7epc9L0/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252841%252529_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Ironically, although at first glance the garigue appears to be so barren, plants thrive and flower there year round. The most prevalent shrub of the Maltese garigue is the wonderfully-scented wild thyme but it is also common to find <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/search/label/asphodel" target="_blank">asphodel</a>, fennel and spurges. Less frequently, sea chamomile, different species of tiny orchids and irises are encountered. Some of these plants are endemic to the Maltese islands.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lOw2H_gP8sI/VT1N7bIHO5I/AAAAAAAAbG0/1OROSFIXwKs/s1600-h/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%2525289%252529-001%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="Migra l-Ferha (9)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Migra l-Ferha (9)-001" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kDmnpCjgjCw/VT1N8anyZKI/AAAAAAAAbG8/6m2gW1tIsUg/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%2525289%252529-001_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bdDn7AihRkg/VT1N9mz3tcI/AAAAAAAAbHE/iwxI3LoRblI/s1600-h/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%25252810%252529%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="Migra l-Ferha (10)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Migra l-Ferha (10)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bnfTC_bdyac/VT1N-b2kSZI/AAAAAAAAbHM/aDLWL2LA5yc/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%25252810%252529_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">In the past, large stretches of garigue were destroyed by urban development and the mistaken mentality that these tracts of land are incapable of supporting any useful vegetation. Nowadays most garigue areas are protected and, thankfully, they continue to be a source of delight to all lovers of nature.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kYNPzqUC2jg/VT1N_lRQoUI/AAAAAAAAbHU/Yt1FC9sl0Gg/s1600-h/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252854%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="Sun Rose" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Sun Rose" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tv9Y5dZW1UM/VT1OAegPK3I/AAAAAAAAbHc/bUc1RvCsCFE/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252854%252529_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">More information about Malta’s garigue may be found on the blogs <a href="http://naturalmalta.blogspot.com/2010/09/garigue.html" target="_blank">Maltese Nature</a> and <a href="https://leslievella.wordpress.com/tag/malta-garigue/" target="_blank">The Malta Photo Blog</a>.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ew59ssATU64/VT1OBgEtVxI/AAAAAAAAbHk/ad7fU4Y8Fso/s1600-h/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252873%252529%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Congreve Memorial and Wied iz-Zurrieq (73)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Congreve Memorial and Wied iz-Zurrieq (73)" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bce8hi6blnk/VT1OCg_FCdI/AAAAAAAAbHs/OWGTRUzGJgU/Congreve%252520Memorial%252520and%252520Wied%252520iz-Zurrieq%252520%25252873%252529_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-4335495066707201642015-04-14T22:55:00.001+02:002015-04-14T22:55:27.649+02:00St Agatha’s Tower<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GRo5wMzZ-uI/VS1-b2n0mdI/AAAAAAAAa7k/SpDKA3G0p2Q/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520077%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 077" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 077" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgtMMCDt1qNxb5wX1DTfndDzn1JxdA3kKg2a6HzyCr-TrCBS3_BkFypHlqvTLZu71lAtBxzkoeyv9VTQTH_7yOyydPbgIhqE7dTGdbw4NzwMOgOpKRn35MwnI4fmCg0v_0Huv93Yqc2kE/?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a> <p align="justify">St Agatha’s Tower, or as it is more commonly called, the Red Tower is situated on a high ridge that gives anybody in it unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside and, more importantly, the sea. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-S_1C3sNZSWg/VS1-d2hzRKI/AAAAAAAAa70/bS2dBYTa5Ww/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520098%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 098" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 098" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4R4Eo3mDEyo/VS1-eg4-_iI/AAAAAAAAa78/opdKn3MyGi0/Red%252520Tower%252520098_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8yvmrHskvfY/VS1-frv23FI/AAAAAAAAa8E/YtD7QLhc1q8/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520099%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 099" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 099" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-C7TuaGtUZcE/VS1-gkHgC2I/AAAAAAAAa8M/9XcoTdKvesY/Red%252520Tower%252520099_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">The tower was built in 1647-1648 during the reign of Grand Master Lascaris as part of the coastal defences of the island and was dedicated to St Agatha – one of the patron saints on Malta. Inside the tower there is a small chapel dedicated to the saint.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1aS2zp6BLHw/VS1-hCG0QcI/AAAAAAAAa8U/Uq5tYrw3Pfk/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520090%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 090" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 090" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wwgPiQgL2cs/VS1-iBaS1cI/AAAAAAAAa8c/pAovKnifS24/Red%252520Tower%252520090_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LIlkfge7teY/VS1-izxfJzI/AAAAAAAAa8k/7sfEFUdDL7Y/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520078%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 078" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 078" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lWo2up9Qd_M/VS1-jvzGp5I/AAAAAAAAa8s/GMsWqC4aWUE/Red%252520Tower%252520078_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9mU_agM7WZU/VS1-kwrHgQI/AAAAAAAAa80/uCQ1LJoZDGU/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520093%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 093" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 093" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s-L6fCVTVXE/VS1-lg6Mk2I/AAAAAAAAa88/ZEosW67nYKw/Red%252520Tower%252520093_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="452" height="595" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-s3TPhbePd7Q/VS1-mmm1f-I/AAAAAAAAa9E/BiE-zY39Ps0/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520095%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 095" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 095" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3E5UZPLjsEY/VS1-nKOPRHI/AAAAAAAAa9M/O2IDxofVkdE/Red%252520Tower%252520095_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7aWTUIGmNTQ/VS1-oVNf1kI/AAAAAAAAa9U/ITld4m_VkXs/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520112%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 112" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 112" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RhMamSrdHKc/VS1-ozpWE9I/AAAAAAAAa9c/VruepM3HqmU/Red%252520Tower%252520112_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Originally, the tower was probably accessed by a drawbridge. The interior of the tower consists of two vaulted rooms with four corner towers. If the need arose, it was able to house a garrison of about 50 men who had at their disposal five cannons positioned on the roof. The tower was manned by British soldiers during both of the world wars. At the base, the walls of the tower are about four metres thick. It is not known when or why the tower was painted red.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xR2T71Y6MH0/VS1-p2463cI/AAAAAAAAa9k/CSe-UfusIlE/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520082%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 082" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 082" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-snvW4LUpf-Y/VS1-qhzhU3I/AAAAAAAAa9s/wjyYhhINsnk/Red%252520Tower%252520082_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3M2ttmC0iik/VS1-rl1EH8I/AAAAAAAAa90/tUdJuLVkDkU/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520084%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 084" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 084" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-emLY6AX1l3Y/VS1-sQ0YvcI/AAAAAAAAa98/DAhisQGt0p8/Red%252520Tower%252520084_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">In recent years the tower has been restored by <a href="http://dinlarthelwa.org/" target="_blank">Din l-Art Helwa</a> (Malta’s Heritage Trust) with the aid of three private companies.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OelyG7V3lT0/VS1-tojkcxI/AAAAAAAAa-E/c4Anzp_P2RU/s1600-h/Red%252520Tower%252520116%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Red Tower 116" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Red Tower 116" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hG5-t1YUQ94/VS1-uTpcnGI/AAAAAAAAa-M/H67BBxSLoJ4/Red%252520Tower%252520116_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="center">The Red Tower, Triq tad-Dahar, Mellieha</p> <p align="center">Opening hours: daily 10.00 – 13.00 hrs; Tuesdays 10.00 – 16.00 hrs</p> <p align="center">Entrance fee: 2EUR</p> <p align="center"> </p> <div id="scid:84E294D0-71C9-4bd0-A0FE-95764E0368D9:e06eacab-c5b2-42a8-aab8-8af82346abca" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent" style="width: 568px; float: none; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto"><a href="http://www.bing.com/maps/default.aspx?v=2&cp=35.97426~14.33562&lvl=14&style=r&mkt=en-us&FORM=LLWR" id="map-cf4f1d53-1d66-4e5a-a394-d271ffe40aa1" alt="View map" title="View map"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bLDdxlOZ5DU/VS1-vD5ojkI/AAAAAAAAa-Q/dmFAzbXfOrQ/map-c871966f4294.jpg?imgmax=800" width="564" height="374" alt="Map picture"></a></div> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-77819720217670876332015-02-10T21:28:00.001+01:002015-02-10T21:28:04.289+01:00Snapshots of … Traditional Shop-fronts of Valletta<p align="justify">It’s been a long time. But I think it’s finally time to come back here and share more of Malta with you. I’m starting off with something very close to my heart: the traditional shop-fronts of Valletta. They are hard to find these days and some of them are in a less than pristine condition. But that’s what  makes them all the more beautiful and mysterious. They make me wonder just what types of wares used to be sold behind those crumbling wooden shutters.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MoqwFtbcgWE/VNppmmXjOxI/AAAAAAAAabk/Yyvldcy9jvY/s1600-h/More%252520Valletta%252520011%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="More Valletta 011" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="More Valletta 011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fhW9GvaW-fc/VNppnf5CL2I/AAAAAAAAabs/x8jZbGYMcZY/More%252520Valletta%252520011_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qvJIeGlwE2M/VNppn85zItI/AAAAAAAAab0/cr6U08G8AH0/s1600-h/More%252520Valletta%252520042%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="More Valletta 042" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="More Valletta 042" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1ZpNLN_vHUA/VNppokB9lWI/AAAAAAAAab8/xONIRbb95Fo/More%252520Valletta%252520042_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="1041" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kDzM93wI-1U/VNppphZbg_I/AAAAAAAAacE/fpWcnIQu_Q4/s1600-h/Valletta%252520%25252821%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta (21)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (21)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kXl_ANUlhO8/VNppqnf3aaI/AAAAAAAAacM/TVNtkQubFbA/Valletta%252520%25252821%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4cojqM-oCcw/VNpprsZJOnI/AAAAAAAAacU/SplMm3sR4KY/s1600-h/Valletta%252520%25252878%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta (78)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (78)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-u0EjP6I5oMI/VNppsYsy5YI/AAAAAAAAacc/eNmtA27ussw/Valletta%252520%25252878%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LtNCKhtqBBw/VNpptK43kuI/AAAAAAAAack/KlHsmZLvHpg/s1600-h/Valletta%252520%2525282%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta (2)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TS_luc83D7M/VNpptpL-OaI/AAAAAAAAacs/A5TXa0ZW4rI/Valletta%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wQBbIeWXY6s/VNppumHRZHI/AAAAAAAAac0/syx_HW6JZV8/s1600-h/Valletta%252520%25252865%252529-001%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta (65)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (65)-001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1-HeVTnjS9g/VNppvC_M6eI/AAAAAAAAac8/osz6sqGccsM/Valletta%252520%25252865%252529-001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YSnGVeRQkkk/VNppv8yxLOI/AAAAAAAAadE/bpyRTqb_KGY/s1600-h/Valletta%252520%2525283%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta (3)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (3)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nRFETORCZ1Q/VNppwr9lPJI/AAAAAAAAadM/DbzHhbNAMhY/Valletta%252520%2525283%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="344" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-04edUix9Drs/VNppxqxjA8I/AAAAAAAAadU/QJTP_q4tCNo/s1600-h/Valletta%252520%25252836%252529-001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta (36)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta (36)-001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dDdjxe93uRM/VNppyaUnvZI/AAAAAAAAadc/S0UIkJIIPB0/Valletta%252520%25252836%252529-001_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9cX4izEGUVE/VNppzu_K6cI/AAAAAAAAadk/BQ5W_KpXTLY/s1600-h/Valletta%252520%252526%252520Sliema%252520%2525288%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta & Sliema (8)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta & Sliema (8)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KrnodtAmUbU/VNpp0S_ZKVI/AAAAAAAAads/N-19rMEG0ug/Valletta%252520%252526%252520Sliema%252520%2525288%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p>So tell me, which are your favourites?</p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-75235907871310752202014-05-22T22:45:00.001+02:002014-05-22T22:45:42.455+02:00Count Roger of Normandy and the Legend of Migra Ferha<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9KpB45VHP80/U35hxDeaLVI/AAAAAAAAXEw/TBMQVE8UnsE/s1600-h/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%2525285%252529%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="Migra l-Ferha (5)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Migra l-Ferha (5)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-stg8aZ60X4s/U35hyQEa7gI/AAAAAAAAXE4/MY_-at8qKNw/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%2525285%252529_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p>According to a local legend, Count Roger the Norman landed here in 1091 with an army of men and freed the island from the hated Moors. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEGOf1FJ0sXv-K4pC8FZjF2UqQ-fXN5uyOL7wQhUdzMnSYusfNz1zjcwKsQhM2LrANS3NQc0GlhQf0bD0TCYPGiN5zgfytkLa96Jcx1psR_y9lW3_aT7g4UGtgLcmFH2ufuSKinRP6zk/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252824%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (24)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (24)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kzCcCg4mEIE/U35h0iQMTOI/AAAAAAAAXFI/3PzivyMncuc/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252824%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">This is supposedly the exact spot where the hoof of the Count’s horse touched the ground as soon as he disembarked from his ship. Legends – you just have to love them.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3mtwq72gl-Q/U35h1jKENRI/AAAAAAAAXFQ/lUReeSLkNS0/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252828%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (28)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (28)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-KQ_gBtUmKcQ/U35h2yN2bpI/AAAAAAAAXFY/jYbop_QSmYY/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252828%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Of course, no commander worth his salt would anchor his ships beneath such inhospitable cliffs and then lead an army of men and horses up the steep slopes. So although we know that Count Roger did come to Malta in 1091 he must have landed in a much safer place. The story goes that the locals greeted him with the shouts of Kyrie Eleison, that he freed all the Christian slaves from the clutches of the Moors and sent them (the Moors) packing and that everyone was so grateful to him that they adopted the colours of his coat-of-arms as our national flag.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7mJx6L1vPWs/U35h3_tho_I/AAAAAAAAXFg/q-yV-xDtMLo/s1600-h/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%25252819%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Migra l-Ferha (19)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Migra l-Ferha (19)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wXR-Fbo6KZ4/U35h415Dr3I/AAAAAAAAXFo/ZuTf250BYvM/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%25252819%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify">The truth is that the Moors stayed here until 1123 and paid Count Roger a yearly tribute and our national flag came into being much later (although no one knows precisely when). </p> <p>You will find a brief history of this period <a href="http://www.culturalmalta.org/index.php/History/arab-rule-in-malta.html">here</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-m7YwwZzQRkk/U35h555w8pI/AAAAAAAAXFw/9Kj3oplWPAI/s1600-h/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%25252823%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Migra l-Ferha (23)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Migra l-Ferha (23)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zkVcM-9omRQ/U35h6-Vl1QI/AAAAAAAAXF4/kvFne4r3uzU/Migra%252520l-Ferha%252520%25252823%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p>This should give you a better perspective of how far down the ‘hoof mark’ is and - yes, those men are fishing.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-biQId_ny0BY/U35h8Aaa0KI/AAAAAAAAXGA/8V-UPbfdIbc/s1600-h/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252823%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (23)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Is-Sancir & Migra Ferha (23)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nyXTvMwUFc0/U35h89BEx_I/AAAAAAAAXGI/pPSv9_ZInb0/Is-Sancir%252520%252526%252520Migra%252520Ferha%252520%25252823%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a></p> <p>(These photos were taken on two different days in March – one that was rather stormy and the other on a sunny day).</p> <p align="center"><em>Location: Migra Ferha, March 2014</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-40114358948592555442014-03-24T22:39:00.001+01:002014-03-24T22:39:36.876+01:00Ta’ Qali Farmer’s Market<p align="justify">By the looks of it, I have neglected this <a href="http://audreywalas.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> for quite some time. The thing is, what I write here is usually factual and I seem to prefer a more narrative, personal approach. Maybe one day I will find the right balance.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rf3Rcn8uAK8/UzCl2nXcISI/AAAAAAAAWgI/MwALpFFnSag/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520002%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 002" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7DQ4V1JxRu8/UzCl4TFih8I/AAAAAAAAWgQ/MS04eHMuioA/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520002_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0qZEKKjwaCQ/UzCl5xu7I7I/AAAAAAAAWgY/sHLYPoAi7xw/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520006%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 006" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 006" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VYDTYykxUik/UzCl6grG5FI/AAAAAAAAWgg/tj_MKNPePl4/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520006_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">For today, I just wanted to share some photos of local produce at the  main Farmer’s Market that is held in Ta’ Qali. It is the best place to buy fruit and vegetables – which is what the majority of stalls sell. Interspersed amongst them are a few flower and meat sellers.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Vale0o67y1U/UzCl73MPJwI/AAAAAAAAWgo/60NX2IK7l1o/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520003%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 003" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 003" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zSvykffV8IA/UzCl8owX9EI/AAAAAAAAWgw/AcJGxIgGEeE/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520003_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_ITE8UC1CdM/UzCl9lv-KcI/AAAAAAAAWg4/qt2C7GyA01w/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520005%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 005" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EEBfFfHfgtk/UzCl-oWG3iI/AAAAAAAAWhA/bFMyLx4oS38/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520005_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="justify">I would love to see some more variety – maybe a few stalls selling home-baked goods or jams and there is definitely a need for a couple of booths selling bread. But all in all, it is a pleasant shopping experience and it is nice to be able to walk around and then go back to purchase the freshest and best-looking wares.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EZAkegGyP2A/UzCl_zVsv4I/AAAAAAAAWhI/zgZqfdv72yk/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520008%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 008" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 008" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wOLXZYxKDfg/UzCmA89KVjI/AAAAAAAAWhQ/Yv6nu2p8ZdU/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520008_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oCtlUOMg8OE/UzCmCFuINSI/AAAAAAAAWhY/XFjZH39GI74/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520004%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 004" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GVw6VFtwxzc/UzCmDAwgGsI/AAAAAAAAWhc/zXlxHQdyMQg/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p>Nature’s palette is so vibrant, isn’t it?</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-08vOYtlGlMM/UzCmEQ5JgXI/AAAAAAAAWho/NqxXWd2pE0Y/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520007%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 007" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 007" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e2SLCPq2AHM/UzCmFQ6WroI/AAAAAAAAWhw/iLoVi1bnFFY/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="452" /></a></p> <p align="center">Ta’ Qali Farmer’s Market</p> <p align="center">Opening hours: Tuesdays 16.00 – 19.00 and Saturdays 09.00 – 17.00</p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-62313222885583392062014-01-29T21:00:00.001+01:002014-01-29T21:00:12.103+01:00Yellow House, Birgu<p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZvNiR_ozgMc/UuldxqWatVI/AAAAAAAAV30/SpjLZPPD3_M/s1600-h/The%252520Inquisitor%252527s%252520Palace%252520%25252812%252529%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="The Inquisitor's Palace (12)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The Inquisitor's Palace (12)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rvNv8jLtt7U/Uuldym7PCxI/AAAAAAAAV38/FID4rUpxDbU/The%252520Inquisitor%252527s%252520Palace%252520%25252812%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">I still remember the time when the exterior of most town-houses would be painted in all sorts of different colours. Nowadays, the trend is to peel off the paint and expose the limestone blocks out of which our houses are built. Since I am not a student of architecture, I won’t go into the merits, or otherwise, of this practice. But let’s just say that in the blazing heat  of the mid-day summer sun, the pastel and rainbow hues were easier on the eyes than stark-white. I am glad to see that the practice of painting the facades of houses has not completely died out. This lemony, hue reminiscent of sorbet, brightens up the whole street.</p> <p align="center"><em>Location: Birgu, June 2013</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-88127161052660970902014-01-09T22:25:00.001+01:002014-01-09T22:27:53.122+01:00Churchill’s Cigar and Eisenhower’s Walking Stick<p align="justify">These are just two of the many artifacts that may be seen at the National War Museum in Valletta. Through its collection of personal memorabilia, original footage, digital displays and numerous photographic panels, the museum aims at highlighting the role that Malta played during the two World Wars with special focus on the second world war. Perhaps the most poignant items on display are the fuselage of the <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-plane-called-faith.html" target="_blank">Gloster Gladiator “Faith”</a> and remnants from the ships that formed part of <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/2009/08/operation-pedestal.html" target="_blank">Operation Pedestal</a> – the convoy that saved Malta in 1942. The museum honours the fallen, salutes the heroes and provides a glimpse at what daily life in Malta was like during World War 2. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UJczE6bKn7o/Us8TpJRH9PI/AAAAAAAAVa0/3JhyJpPTWE0/s1600-h/September1%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="September1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="September1" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4lY9vn6ubdk/Us8TqTVXuZI/AAAAAAAAVa8/cnZv3vN0cgY/September1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="978" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6d5w0NFV43M/Us8TrTDe3YI/AAAAAAAAVbE/Y-HGhrQKykc/s1600-h/September2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="September2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="September2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1ZNCY_URyX8/Us8TsQtn46I/AAAAAAAAVbM/jMUEh1HIdhE/September2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="978" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-27XPr4hCmjo/Us8TtKmxJeI/AAAAAAAAVbU/s_0R1ux9Inc/s1600-h/September3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="September3" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="September3" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1imeTpadF1M/Us8Tud9a4mI/AAAAAAAAVbc/fTEJUhTt21E/September3_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="978" /></a></p> <p align="center"><em>The National War Museum, Old Drill Hall, Lower Fort St Elmo, Spur Street, Valletta VLT 1741 <br />Tel: +356 21 222 430</em></p> <p align="center"><em>Opening hours:  </em></p> <p align="center">Monday to Sunday: 09.00 - 17.00hrs <br />Last admission at 16.30hrs <br />Closed on 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January & Good Friday </p> <p> </p> <p>Notwithstanding the high level of the exhibits, it is difficult to understand the complexity of this particular period in the island’s history just be visiting the museum. For those interested in learning more, here are a few recommendations:</p> <p><u>More Places To Visit</u></p> <p>- <a href="http://www.lascariswarrooms.com/" target="_blank">Lascaris War Rooms</a>: an underground complex of tunnels and chambers that housed the War Headquarters and from where the defence of Malta was conducted during WW2.</p> <p>- <a href="http://www.maltaatwarmuseum.com/" target="_blank">Malta at War  Museum</a>: apart from the exhibits and the screening of an original wartime documentary ‘Malta G.C’, a visit to a war-time air-raid shelter is included.</p> <p><u>Documentaries</u></p> <p>On Discovery Channel: <em><a href="http://press.discovery.com/uk/know/programs/heroes-hell-island-men-who-saved-malta/" target="_blank">Heroes of Hell Island – The Men Who Saved Malta</a></em></p> <p>A  National Geographic Production: <em>World War 2: Battle for Malta</em></p> <p align="center"><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Sr2wVyw1xzA" frameborder="0" width="560" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><iframe height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/HmYz6mvpEVQ" frameborder="0" width="480" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><u>Books</u></p> <p><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Fortress-Malta-1940-1943-MILITARY-PAPERBACKS/dp/0304366544" target="_blank"><img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41dz%2B1eWS4L.jpg" width="300" height="322" /></a>                   <img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51N%2BZ9gqIuL.jpg" width="215" height="342" /></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Ohio-Malta-Legendary-Refused/dp/1848845219/ref=pd_sim_b_2"><img alt="" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51dkYm%2B8dLL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_SX385_SY500_CR,0,0,385,500_SH20_OU02_.jpg" width="300" height="390" /></a>               <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Siege-Malta-1940-1943-Ernle-Bradford/dp/1848845847/ref=pd_sim_b_6"><img alt="" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51QWdqNnRZL._.jpg" width="265" height="382" /></a>       </p> <p><u>Fiction</u></p> <p><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kappillan-Malta-CASSELL-MILITARY-PAPERBACKS/dp/0304358444/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389125395&sr=1-1&keywords=the+kapillan+of+malta"><img style="float: left; display: inline" alt="" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51J5TMS2CYL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_SX385_SY500_CR,0,0,385,500_SH20_OU02_.jpg" width="300" align="left" height="390" /></a></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-70997671062724085092013-12-23T21:53:00.001+01:002013-12-23T21:53:23.774+01:00Merry Christmas<p align="justify">I am realising that, the more time passes, the harder it is becoming to find the time to write both here and at <a href="http://www.loreeswritingspace.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Stories and Scribbles</a>. I would like to maintain both blogs, but this one may have to be on the back-burner for a while and I may have to post here even less often than I am already. I will try to work things out. In the meantime, I would like to wish my regular readers and all my occasional visitors a very Merry Christmas. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6FTQHm79sqU/UriivZa73HI/AAAAAAAAVBw/Q9Sp6ByMqNo/s1600-h/The%252520Barracca%252520Bridge%252520and%252520Castille%252520%25252834%252529-001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="The Barracca Bridge and Castille (34)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="The Barracca Bridge and Castille (34)-001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5oMMd45GCjY/UriiwTyhP6I/AAAAAAAAVB4/Fc5TE0zIi7Y/The%252520Barracca%252520Bridge%252520and%252520Castille%252520%25252834%252529-001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="center"><em>Mdina Glass Christmas Tree at Auberge de Castille, December 2012</em></p> <p align="justify">I will leave you with a traditional Christmas carol from Malta. It’s called ‘Ninni La Tibkix Izjed’ which roughly translates to ‘hush, don’t cry and go to sleep’. It was written in 1846 and is one of the best-loved Maltese carols. More about its origins <a href="http://di-ve.com:8080/culture-cafe/origins-ninni-la-tibkix-izjed" target="_blank">here</a>. </p> <p align="justify">Keep warm, keep safe and enjoy this beautiful time.</p> <p align="center"><object width="480" height="360"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wIBHQMReYsk?version=3&hl=en_GB"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wIBHQMReYsk?version=3&hl=en_GB" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="480" height="360" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></p> <p align="center"></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-42537102766985754242013-11-28T20:57:00.001+01:002013-11-28T21:00:24.667+01:00Bingemma Gap and The Victoria Lines<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xicT2EpTphY/UpegFq0KcrI/AAAAAAAAUxI/oAXnWWEwZ1k/s1600-h/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528117%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Picnic at Dwejra (117)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Picnic at Dwejra (117)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ulq_CcrGVzI/UpegGf515cI/AAAAAAAAUxQ/h0_ZYlfSum4/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528117%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a> <p align="justify">Situated on the edge of the Great Fault that runs across the entire breadth of the island, the <a href="http://allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/2011/10/wayside-chapels-our-lady-of-itria.html">Church of Our Lady of Itrea</a> is surrounded by some of the most picturesque scenery that Malta has to offer. It almost looks as if one gust of wind will send this little chapel crashing down into the valley. But is has withstood the test of time. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bywf3q4nGa4/UpegHkNU5-I/AAAAAAAAUxY/eS1diJyzNdU/s1600-h/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528119%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Picnic at Dwejra (119)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Picnic at Dwejra (119)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MOHoNHK__Nw/UpegICb4BRI/AAAAAAAAUxg/aRsyVNU-z8o/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528119%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Its unique location ensures that it takes my breath away every time I pass by. Although this area is rich in archeological discoveries, perhaps it is most well-known for the line of defenses that was built by the British in the late 19th century. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uzBTtDR5It0/UpegJcB9asI/AAAAAAAAUxo/wwpbkHDGG4U/s1600-h/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528118%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Picnic at Dwejra (118)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Picnic at Dwejra (118)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1ypP46IsAyA/UpegKBX-4sI/AAAAAAAAUxw/4lF7uYIelLw/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528118%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify">On this island that possesses few natural barriers, man-made fortifications abound. The eastern coastline, where the main harbour is situated, has been heavily protected with castles, forts and high bastion walls for hundreds of years. In other areas, impenetrable walls of upper coralline limestone rise majestically from the blue sea. But the sandy beaches of the northern part of the island provided an easy landing place for any marauding pirates or corsairs; and where pirates could land, so could an army. In 1870 the British decided to make the most of a natural fault, running from Madliena in the east to Bingemma in the west, and built the <a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/1114/">Victoria Lines</a>. The Victoria Lines, which stretch for 12km, are further strengthened by 4 forts and a number of gun batteries. Originally called the North West Front, the wall was re-named the Victoria Lines to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jLEcPZ2UOvg/UpegLlmCdGI/AAAAAAAAUx4/hU2jEnk4A-4/s1600-h/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528122%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Picnic at Dwejra (122)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Picnic at Dwejra (122)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2oQXWxT0dyE/UpegMWqpYhI/AAAAAAAAUyA/ICdtdOpMZCE/Picnic%252520at%252520Dwejra%252520%252528122%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ox3fSljwC_4/UpegNq9M8uI/AAAAAAAAUyI/TfR58lQEMOA/s1600-h/Bingemma%25252C%252520Gnejna%252520%252526%252520Dwejra%252520%25252813%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Bingemma, Gnejna & Dwejra (13)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Bingemma, Gnejna & Dwejra (13)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t5mucwDSYfY/UpegOem6JKI/AAAAAAAAUyQ/IsShHxzLAs0/Bingemma%25252C%252520Gnejna%252520%252526%252520Dwejra%252520%25252813%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Nowadays, the Victoria Lines are very  popular with hikers. The route is quite easy as you simply follow the Great Fault Line. Walk guides for the different sections of the route may be found <a href="http://www.victorialinesmalta.com/map-walk/">here</a>. </p> <p align="center"><em>Location: Bingemma</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-42627851542228498852013-11-03T22:55:00.001+01:002013-11-03T22:59:12.859+01:00Merchants’ Street On An Autumn Afternoon<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-K9z-6BKScMU/UnbGVACi1PI/AAAAAAAAUgY/24-j8otLYUU/s1600-h/Valletta%252520on%252520a%252520Sunday%252520%252528103%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta on a Sunday (103)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta on a Sunday (103)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-01N3eLsSWxw/UnbGWKvFraI/AAAAAAAAUgg/7R8k6QCnQOQ/Valletta%252520on%252520a%252520Sunday%252520%252528103%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="570" height="433" /></a> <p>An all but deserted Merchant’s Street on a Sunday afternoon. To the left of the picture, <a href="http://www.foreign.gov.mt/default.aspx?MDIS=519">Palazzo Parisio</a> (where Napoleon resided for seven tumultuous days in 1798), now the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/2013/03/inside-auberge-de-castille.html">Auberge de Castille</a> (the office of the Prime Minister). To the right, <a href="http://www.mta.com.mt/page.aspx?id=56">Auberge d’Italie</a> which currently houses the Malta Tourism Authority. In the foreground, <a href="http://www.sjcav.org/page.asp?p=6380&l=1">St James Cavalier</a>, Centre for Creativity. I just love how the camera caught the rays of the sun and turned them into orbs of light, giving a different dimension to the photo. A typical autumn day in Malta – blue skies with just a hint of clouds.</p> <p align="center"><em>Location: Merchants Street, Valletta</em></p> <p align="center"><em>November 2012</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-16644040855069122952013-10-22T23:01:00.001+02:002013-10-22T23:01:56.574+02:00Les Gavroches<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YURzrR_c2gw/UmbnuQmJSHI/AAAAAAAAUMw/G_bzYE3qjCo/s1600-h/Museum%252520of%252520Fine%252520Arts%252520%25252844%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Museum of Fine Arts (44)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Museum of Fine Arts (44)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-plZ1Xbo_5xY/UmbnvOkmnFI/AAAAAAAAUM0/bFcirJNT47Q/Museum%252520of%252520Fine%252520Arts%252520%25252844%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a> <p align="justify"><em>Les Gavroches</em> - three Parisian urchins, immortalised forever by Antonio Sciortino, are the subject of this sculpture in bronze. Antonio Sciortino is one of Malta’s foremost sculptors. He was born in the village of Zebbug in 1879 and studied at the Istituto Reale di Belle Arti in Rome. He died in Rome  in 1947. His work is said to be influenced by Auguste Rodin and by the artistic movements of Realism and Futurism.</p> <p align="justify"><em>Les Gavroches</em> was completed in 1904 and was placed in the <a href="http://www.allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/2011/10/upper-barrakka-gardens.html">Upper Barracca Gardens</a>. In 2000 the sculpture was removed to be cleaned and restored. It now resides in the Museum of Fine Arts.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RTtGvn1hKAc/UmbnwJamfPI/AAAAAAAAUNA/illYrT7s2hQ/s1600-h/Museum%252520of%252520Fine%252520Arts%252520%25252845%252529-001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Museum of Fine Arts (45)-001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Museum of Fine Arts (45)-001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xDthZSrYuT4/UmbnwyjMqPI/AAAAAAAAUNE/BUuR_yIt-WI/Museum%252520of%252520Fine%252520Arts%252520%25252845%252529-001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Of all the statues and sculptures in Malta this is probably my favourite. There is a sense of movement and vitality in the faces of the three <em>gavroches</em> that is quite engaging. It almost feels as if, like Pinocchio, they will turn into flesh and blood little boys right before our eyes. And perhaps that is why this sculpture enjoys such universal appeal – because Sciortino has captured to perfection the impish look that so often comes into little boys’ eyes.</p> <p align="center"><em>Les Gavroches</em></p> <p align="center"><em>Museum of Fine Arts, South Street, Valletta</em></p> <p align="center"><strong>Opening Hours</strong></p> <p align="center">Monday to Sunday: 9.00-17.00 <br />Last admission: 16.30 <br />Closed: 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January, Good Friday</p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-76099263694610488532013-10-17T23:01:00.001+02:002013-10-17T23:01:06.880+02:00Wayside Chapels: Santa Maria at Tal-Virtu’<p align="justify">This chapel forms part of my earliest memories. It is located at the edge of a promontory on which the town of Rabat is situated, on a lonely stretch of road with stunning views . When I was a little child, my Nanna would take me for a walk, almost every day, to the boundary wall of the chapel and back. We would walk, hand in hand, and she would feed me a banana, piece by little piece – I was not much of an eater back then.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8DmCl4Ez-vg/UmBP7U5NYQI/AAAAAAAAUHA/lXSx1Rm0OpA/s1600-h/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520009%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Jason Rides his Bike 009" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Jason Rides his Bike 009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-t3Tcns0EUqE/UmBP8P1LMoI/AAAAAAAAUHI/Sq26qKh_hM8/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520009_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a></p> <p align="justify">On the way, we would stop at a little farm. A big billy-goat with an impressively long beard lived there and I never missed the chance to stop and say hello.  The chapel itself is a mysterious place with a history that goes back to Punic times.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8Y3L8nKd_JE/UmBP9USPxlI/AAAAAAAAUHQ/Na3J7a9Ewg4/s1600-h/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520015%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Jason Rides his Bike 015" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Jason Rides his Bike 015" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--lQ4ka3cH_Q/UmBP-BO9-jI/AAAAAAAAUHY/U_6w63jdPn0/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520015_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Beneath the chapel are a number of tombs that date back to Punic and late Roman times, together with paleo-christian (early Christian) catacombs. Also underneath the current church is a crypt which used to be the ante-chamber to the catacombs. The crypt was  used as a troglodytic (cave) place of worship in medieval times.  The first church on this site was built in 1438 but the existing domed structure was built between 1717 and 1723 after the original church suffered extensive damage during the earthquake of 1693. (The earthquake of 1693 is rather famous in Malta. It was caused by a violent eruption of Mt Etna – just 70 miles away – and caused extensive damage to a number of buildings).</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rcl6y9CsXig/UmBP-1WA_CI/AAAAAAAAUHg/LWUUPBAkmYU/s1600-h/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520033%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Jason Rides his Bike 033" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Jason Rides his Bike 033" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gDjJsbRdStg/UmBP_vaH2UI/AAAAAAAAUHo/DklYVOPRtTc/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520033_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a></p> <p align="justify">In 1923, another earthquake caused several fissures to appear in the domed roof and the church was closed to the public. With the passing of the years, the church fell into dis-repair and was abandoned for many years. It was finally restored in 2009 but, due to the fact that it is now situated on private land, it is not open to the public except for private functions.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KVjaeCpfJG4/UmBQAj1-KQI/AAAAAAAAUHw/6s74eNlucY4/s1600-h/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520023%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Jason Rides his Bike 023" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Jason Rides his Bike 023" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GZlE9JCYHZo/UmBQBQoNRdI/AAAAAAAAUH4/LmCvhS36060/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520023_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Perhaps not too surprisingly, the church is reputed to be haunted*. At least three people (two farmers and a British soldier), on different occasions, claim to have entered the church and saw a priest saying Mass in the empty building. To their horror, they realised that the  priest had no flesh on his skeletal hands. Some also claim to have seen the ghost of a young woman, accompanied by her guardian angel, walking towards the church. Local legend has is that  this young woman was the sister of the famous Maltese architects Lorenzo and Melchiorre Gafa. During her life, she loved to come to pray in this lonely chapel … </p> <p>(*All of these sightings happened prior to the chapel’s restoration.)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Fc4xyjqooDo/UmBQCPo3jJI/AAAAAAAAUIA/htiilacOjmM/s1600-h/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520033_edit%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Jason Rides his Bike 033_edit" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Jason Rides his Bike 033_edit" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2mrmodBRc6A/UmBQCok3JII/AAAAAAAAUIE/Vi6QkK9FGuY/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520033_edit_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="569" height="432" /></a></p> <p>I have been in the vicinity of this chapel many, many times and I have seen nothing unusual (unless you count the billy-goat’s beard). As kids, we were warned not to get too close to the building because it was in a heavily dilapidated state and it was thought that the roof was in imminent danger of collapse. However, one day, in our early teens, we disobeyed and went and looked in through the broken, decayed door. I cannot vouch for the others that were with me, but I was overcome by a very spooky and sinister feeling – and I had not yet heard about the ghost stories at that point in my life.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zW2z5XJ_3mE/UmBQDaQXjOI/AAAAAAAAUIQ/dsfUfxpp85A/s1600-h/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520027%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Jason Rides his Bike 027" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Jason Rides his Bike 027" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nVc62kFls7Q/UmBQEPHxNbI/AAAAAAAAUIY/wz6fSTBppwg/Jason%252520Rides%252520his%252520Bike%252520027_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="595" height="787" /></a></p> <p align="center"><em>Location: Santa Maria Chapel (Tal-Virtu), Virtu Road, Rabat</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-27398016817246120382013-10-08T23:09:00.001+02:002013-10-08T23:09:51.439+02:00Maltese Recipes: Tuna & Spinach Pie<p align="justify">I thought it would be fun to occasionally share  a local recipe. Whether this one is one hundred per cent local, or whether it is an adaptation of a recipe from nearby Sicily, I cannot tell you. What I can tell you is that the recipe below is my own version of the traditional one. It has become a family favourite and is even easy enough for this lazy cook.</p> <p><em>Ingredients</em></p> <ul> <li><em>Short-crust pastry (enough to cover the top and bottom of a 9-inch pie-pan)</em></li> <li><em>2 large cans  tuna(app. 160g each) , drained</em></li> <li><em>500g - 700g spinach (fresh or frozen)</em></li> <li><em>1 large onion, diced</em></li> <li><em>2 tablespoons capers</em></li> <li><em>100g olives</em></li> <li><em>1/2 teaspoon dried mint</em></li> <li><em>1/2 teaspoon dried oregano</em></li> <li><em>1/2 teaspoon dried basil</em></li> <li><em>2 tablespoons tomato paste</em></li> <li><em>salt, to taste</em></li> <li><em>pepper, to taste</em></li> <li><em>olive oil</em></li> <li><em>1-2 tablespoons sesame seeds</em></li> </ul> <p><em>Method</em></p> <ol> <li><em>Boil the spinach in boiling water until cooked. Drain water carefully. (I use a potato  masher to squeeze out as much water as possible).</em></li> <li><em>Fry the diced onion in olive oil. </em></li> <li><em>Add the herbs, olives, tuna, spinach and capers and cook for a few minutes.</em></li> <li><em>Add the tomato paste and mix well.</em></li> <li><em>Season with salt and pepper.</em></li> <li><em>Cover the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan with pastry.</em></li> <li><em>Pour in the tuna and spinach mixture.</em></li> <li><em>Cover the top of the pie with another layer of pastry and scatter the sesame seeds.</em></li> <li><em>Prick the top layer of pastry with a fork.</em></li> <li><em>Bake in an oven at 200C for 30  minutes.</em></li> </ol> <p>I am sorry that I have no pie pictures to share but we were in too much of a hurry to eat it.</p> <p align="justify">It’s been raining and the weather has cooled down a bit (perfect weather for pies, in my opinion). Octobers have a tendency to be rather warm here but, in spite of everything, change is coming. What remains to be seen is whether the change will be slow or fast.  I find that I am spending a lot of time thinking and reminiscing and some of that is going to spill over  into my posts, both here and on <a href="http://www.loreeswritingspace.blogspot.com/">Stories and Scribbles</a>. You will also be noticing a few subtle changes, in content and in layout, on this <a href="http://audreywalas.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> as had promised a few weeks ago. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEks_MOMWTwL81rRY9qfkiVZExGR9JIPxJjfNosn8w_N3Iz3cjCqyVvYO-l9YrRmQb3EztLI2udnNShUClHPyovuKItqPQ_2iXAL8os3adQSwVSq6nBble9HsxDxgaDG8reqY-kdBMY48/s1600-h/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252836%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Rabat and the Catacombs (36)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Rabat and the Catacombs (36)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7AOJ48O2jcw/UlR0h7no_bI/AAAAAAAAT_k/8hnVRs7Xwfc/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252836%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Speaking of rain … I have nearly always shared photos taken on sunny days. However, today I would like you to take a short walk with me through the rainy streets of my home-town. These narrow, winding streets and alleys form part of the old town core. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0RasBWpQksA/UlR0ixAyf3I/AAAAAAAAT_s/1mTRHYQ3hZs/s1600-h/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252837%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Rabat and the Catacombs (37)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Rabat and the Catacombs (37)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fk-sH8PKF4E/UlR0jopAOyI/AAAAAAAAT_0/xWcJg2EDkgE/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252837%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Hundreds of years ago (before 800AD) this area fell within the walls of Mdina. It is highly likely that  beneath the streets we walk on today are the remains of houses from that far-off time. The current buildings, although not as ancient, still date back to the late 1400s. This is especially true of the ground-floor level. Typically, upper levels were added at a later period.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ERnLDipNB5Q/UlR0kkJkDWI/AAAAAAAAT_8/GT5s9cljFvM/s1600-h/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252838%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Rabat and the Catacombs (38)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Rabat and the Catacombs (38)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-TUmrNOISL8o/UlR0lRJz8YI/AAAAAAAAUAE/WJuqKgJJDyY/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252838%252529_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">Not all of these houses are in their original condition. But, thankfully, many have been preserved allowing us a glimpse into the way people lived so many years ago.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7d_CcYvGsg4/UlR0mXfno7I/AAAAAAAAUAM/ASdgW_xRwRM/s1600-h/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252842%252529%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img title="Rabat and the Catacombs (42)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Rabat and the Catacombs (42)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PwE3WSJWII4/UlR0nXCTzmI/AAAAAAAAUAU/de60sVne3yA/Rabat%252520and%252520the%252520Catacombs%252520%25252842%252529_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="center"><em>Location: Rabat</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-55297315648880438222013-09-30T23:17:00.001+02:002013-09-30T23:17:49.328+02:00Of Angels And Saints<p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sJCjjz5gJoM/UknqN4c3IcI/AAAAAAAATvQ/mPFFXipMX1E/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520053%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 053" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 053" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9dSkyZIvl-c/UknqOqrSraI/AAAAAAAATvY/FCjeUW5JuZQ/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520053_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify">They are not easy to miss – though many of us walk beneath their frozen gazes every single day without so much as a second glance. More than anything else, they are a testament to our past. To a blind, almost irrational, faith. Maybe they make us uncomfortable, those piercing, agonised stares. Time has taken its toll on most of them: faded colours, weather-worn faces, missing limbs … These are the angels and saints that our fore-fathers evoked – for a boon; for protection; for a cure.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagBMCEMqdUcPclRFi54RtqcVekKfkCQSFIpEffoauYJGbKPMlLq2tn0F6ZG3Jf3IsNeo2NqmkJpaCr6MBeAWnMqw2L63QP5wP3_trAdq70u-zyou5r_ugY9CTOPPd8VN7XCWaEChQS-4/s1600-h/St%252520Agatha%252520%252526%252520Hal-Bajjada%252520%25252821%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="St Agatha & Hal-Bajjada (21)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="St Agatha & Hal-Bajjada (21)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-IQzlxQxUIEc/UknqQTA6v8I/AAAAAAAATvo/eLL9r7dokGI/St%252520Agatha%252520%252526%252520Hal-Bajjada%252520%25252821%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nOuAWsn_LFg/UknqRXbFmRI/AAAAAAAATvw/18UVhiPfGek/s1600-h/Valletta%252520124%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta 124" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta 124" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-H6va6aLfk6g/UknqR-66COI/AAAAAAAATv4/9JOXPzSLij0/Valletta%252520124_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-09yZ7sRugfE/UknqS73JNEI/AAAAAAAATwA/_oyROmFfVR8/s1600-h/St%252520Agatha%252520%252526%252520Hal-Bajjada%252520%25252840%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="St Agatha & Hal-Bajjada (40)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="St Agatha & Hal-Bajjada (40)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EECQ0A0VAFg/UknqTzh56vI/AAAAAAAATwI/NH6D9T5aQGA/St%252520Agatha%252520%252526%252520Hal-Bajjada%252520%25252840%252529_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">In towns and villages and half-forgotten country lanes, they built niches to house them or just set them atop their houses – their arms outstretched in endless benediction. Our ancestors carved them from the soft limestone or simply painted them on walls – maybe because they wanted to bring Heaven just a little bit closer to earth. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HrN_bA4IJRk/UknqUvv29ZI/AAAAAAAATwQ/xj1vyKyOOmE/s1600-h/Attard%252520%25252812%252529%25255B1%25255D%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="Attard (12)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Attard (12)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qfFRk2gfKTY/UknqVZtCH0I/AAAAAAAATwY/_f7fHT8lqVY/Attard%252520%25252812%252529%25255B1%25255D_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WGF-FJ0nDXk/UknqWWWYjvI/AAAAAAAATwg/M_IxaBYf1T4/s1600-h/Birgu%252520%25252830%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Birgu (30)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Birgu (30)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ynhx9qa-CTg/UknqXOfqw0I/AAAAAAAATwk/APaTp13bKOA/Birgu%252520%25252830%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kGDLinSH1Bg/UknqX8VCVwI/AAAAAAAATww/d3UuIDkchf4/s1600-h/Bingemma%25252C%252520Gnejna%252520%252526%252520Dwejra%252520%25252842%252529%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="Bingemma, Gnejna & Dwejra (42)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Bingemma, Gnejna & Dwejra (42)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_gRVpYl8hFM/UknqYuuKl_I/AAAAAAAATw4/JJs1QKrRmyM/Bingemma%25252C%252520Gnejna%252520%252526%252520Dwejra%252520%25252842%252529_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ON79otTF02w/UknqZf2vFxI/AAAAAAAATxA/J1meNwhSwes/s1600-h/Salib%252520tal-Gholja%25252C%252520Delimara%25252C%252520Marsaxlokk%252520%25252855%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="Salib tal-Gholja, Delimara, Marsaxlokk (55)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Salib tal-Gholja, Delimara, Marsaxlokk (55)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ICEECeWzglg/UknqaBqiAzI/AAAAAAAATxI/r7Qs7HB9AFY/Salib%252520tal-Gholja%25252C%252520Delimara%25252C%252520Marsaxlokk%252520%25252855%252529_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">They look strangely weary, our angels and saints, as if they have been battling demons for way too long. Or maybe they are just feeling lonely, standing in their dusty alcoves, dejected and forlorn. But sometimes, someone may light a candle or leave a token bunch of flowers at their weary feet. And somewhere, in a faraway Heaven, a tired saint smiles.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GGbt-YiMOHg/Uknqaw7ffrI/AAAAAAAATxQ/WLE_cH50GL8/s1600-h/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520080%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mdina Ditch 080" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Mdina Ditch 080" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kEC7LL0hzuU/UknqbiWfi8I/AAAAAAAATxY/enh9pddfUQk/Mdina%252520Ditch%252520080_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">This is a predominantly Catholic country. Churches and chapels abound, as do images of angels and saints. In 1569, Grand Master Pinto del Monte, issued a law that people who owned a corner site in the new city of Valletta had to embellish it with some ornament. This idea soon spread to the other towns and villages and it is one of the reasons that so many effigies of saints can be found in the old village cores. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tlzPhuoUkm4/UknqcibOsRI/AAAAAAAATxg/0qnkvc6-3cQ/s1600-h/Bormla%252520010%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="Bormla 010" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Bormla 010" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HwxxIEtQEJs/Uknqdfz9BzI/AAAAAAAATxo/hbHvWbbamJw/Bormla%252520010_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Kpp-LDIWzHE/UknqeCZg4LI/AAAAAAAATxw/Bdj9pGay6QE/s1600-h/Valletta%252520152%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta 152" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta 152" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BtuXz_Z9tD0/Uknqeye7AkI/AAAAAAAATx4/GIysCxUv5Ak/Valletta%252520152_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-52748419558816330772013-09-23T22:44:00.001+02:002013-09-23T22:44:24.592+02:00Laundry Day in Valletta<p align="justify">It was a bright day in March. The sky was as blue as the local <a href="http://allaboutmalta.blogspot.com/2011/03/wild-flowers-of-malta-borage.html">borage</a> with only the wispiest of clouds.  I had read in a guidebook somewhere to always look up. What I saw made me smile.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cv6Uf8L6VRA/UkCoEmw2t3I/AAAAAAAATsg/y1JSf3SU0Ms/s1600-h/Valletta%252520118%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta 118" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta 118" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-A1W_naYwY34/UkCoFSJ-ffI/AAAAAAAATso/9X4UbOV7ZZ4/Valletta%252520118_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify">It was such a typically Mediterranean scene. All over the residential quarter of Valletta, laundry was hanging out to dry. It seems like the housewives of the city had been busy.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tetscbkfgxE/UkCoG8ZwR5I/AAAAAAAATsw/eO9pop6yrxc/s1600-h/Valletta%252520142%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta 142" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta 142" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qO2SldjKeMk/UkCoHhSHzXI/AAAAAAAATs4/TVmNg4QdXBs/Valletta%252520142_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> <p align="justify">(We do have dryers, of course, but most people hang their clothes to dry in the sun. The majority of houses have a roof or a yard for this activity but, in these old apartments with lots of stairs and, usually, no elevators, it is easier to hang the laundry out of the balcony.)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6denGQMIyrM/UkCoIqmQt2I/AAAAAAAATtA/bR5JP7Yur2Q/s1600-h/Valletta%252520149%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Valletta 149" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Valletta 149" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jiOorjp_xG4/UkCoJkYZzfI/AAAAAAAATtI/I76Vj0nhh68/Valletta%252520149_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="820" /></a></p> <p align="justify">These are the types of changes I was talking about in my last post – nothing too major. History will be interspersed with the reality of life on this small island.  Perhaps you can say that you will be seeing more of the ‘real’ Malta – blemishes and all.</p> <p align="center"><em>Location: the streets of Valletta</em></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8503502665428290840.post-75596264810502471752013-09-18T22:03:00.001+02:002013-09-18T22:03:52.449+02:00Expect Some Changes<p align="justify">As you may have noticed, this <a href="http://audreywalas.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> has been on vacation. A very long vacation. But I had some thinking to do; some decisions to take – about this blog. I came close to deciding that I would no longer write here. Then I thought about it some more and I felt that a slight change  in direction might do the trick. You see, I felt that my posts were becoming a bit bland; a bit too factual and serious. It’s time for occasional doses of quirkiness; for less of the past and more of the present. So expect a few changes around here. I just hope you’ll like them.</p> <p align="justify">Incidentally, I’ve been getting between three to four hundred hits a day on this blog.  I haven’t attracted any new readers nor have I noticed an increase in comments. It’s quite strange as I cannot trace the source of all this traffic. I’m not complaining, of course and hopefully, it’s a positive thing. Have any of you experienced anything similar? </p> <p align="justify">That’s all for today from a very windy island.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-40MY_2iMQ5g/UjoHILnE-NI/AAAAAAAATmg/tQU9it5i_z4/s1600-h/Salib%252520tal-Gholja%25252C%252520Delimara%25252C%252520Marsaxlokk%252520%25252881%252529%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Salib tal-Gholja, Delimara, Marsaxlokk (81)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Salib tal-Gholja, Delimara, Marsaxlokk (81)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jeljYcULtB0/UjoHJrvlkDI/AAAAAAAATmo/ZANxpAHsEnw/Salib%252520tal-Gholja%25252C%252520Delimara%25252C%252520Marsaxlokk%252520%25252881%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="620" height="470" /></a></p> Loreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12520908604580765632noreply@blogger.com6