Today we will be bringing to light another crucial aspect of Malta and its history, Arab rule of Malta. When the Arabs ruled Malta, they left behind aspects that shaped the Maltese language, and some foods that turned into staples in Malta.
A Historical Timeline:
870CE -1090CE: Malta Under Rule of the Arabs
The Arabs occupied Malta from 870CE till 1090CE and though Christianity is the main religion on the Island and has great influence on society today, we were once Muslims.
The Arabs did not leave a lot of documentation of their Maltese ruling, however they have influenced the Maltese Language to an extent that when we speak it, we certainly sound arabic. Most of the Maltese towns’ and villages’ names are arabic such as Marsa, Mdina, Mgarr, Ghar Dalam etc…
During the Arab ruling, Malta was not very prosperous. Having said that, the Arabs launched a new irrigation system that is still in use today. Furthermore, they influenced our culinary skills and introduced foods such as figs and almonds. They also fortified the Three Cities and Mdina during their ruling on the Rock.
As I mentioned earlier, the Maltese Language is the most important living legacy of the Arab Ruling. Our language is semitic with a strong influence of medieval arabic. In layman's terms, old words come from arabic decedents whereas new words come from latin languages such as Italian, English and French. All three countries have occupied Malta at various points in history.
Traditional Maltese Fare
One of my favorite Maltese delicacies is the “Imqaret”. They were introduced during the Arab invasion and have remained popular ever since, especially in street markets and village feasts. They are date filled pastries in the shape of a diamond that are deep fried. Sometimes they are served with ice cream. I highly recommend you trying the “Imqaret” if you visit the Rock!
