Malta is an archipelago in the central Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily. The two largest islands are Malta and Gozo which together with Comino and several other smaller uninhabited islands make up the country. The capital of Malta is Valletta which is the smallest capital in the EU by land area. The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English although Maltese is the national language.
The climate in Malta is Mediterranean with mild rainy winters and hot dry summers. The countryside is mostly rocky with little vegetation but there are some areas of farmland.
The Maltese Islands are home to a number of native species of animals including the Maltese tiger (now extinct) the Maltese mouse (an endemic subspecies of the common house mouse) the Malta Freshwater Crab (an endemic species) and the Maltese blackbird (an endemic subspecies of the common blackbird). There are also a number of introduced species such as the brown rat the common quail and the feral cat.
One of the most famous animals associated with Malta is the Maltese dog a toy dog breed that is believed to have originated on the islands.
As for snakes there are no native species of snake on Malta or Gozo. However there have been a few sightings of snakes on the islands most likely escapees from captivity and there is one record of a snake being accidentally introduced to Malta in a shipment of fruit from Sicily. So while it is possible that there are snakes on the islands it is very unlikely.
What is the capital of Malta?
Valletta
What is the population of Malta?
About 475000
What is the area of Malta?
316 km²
What is the currency of Malta?
Euro
What is the official language of Malta?
Maltese
What is the climate of Malta?
Mediterranean
What are the major religions practiced in Malta?
Christianity and Islam
What is the life expectancy in Malta?
About 80 years
What is the highest mountain in Malta?
Mount Carmel
What is the lowest point in Malta?
Mediterranean Sea
When did Malta gain independence?
1964
Who are Malta’s current and first president?
George Vella and Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca
What is Malta’s national dish?
Rabbit Stew
What is Malta’s national drink?
Cisk beer
What is the national animal of Malta?
Mediterranean Sea Turtle
