Today we will be familiarizing ourselves with the return of Christianity. We will also go over Maltese identity, in particular the Maltese Flag. I will be finishing with a short Maltese Language lesson, let’s have fun learning!
A Historical Timeline:
1090- Norman Rule
The Norman rule in Malta took place during the 11th and 12th centuries. The Normans, originally from the region of Normandy in northern France, were a powerful medieval European dynasty known for their military prowess and expansionist activities. In 1090, the Normans won Malta over from the Arabs. The Normans were lead by Count Roger who as a symbol of conquest, tore his flag and gave a part of it to the Maltese People. This is why the Maltese Flag is white on the left side and red on the right side. Count Roger won The Maltese Islands during his major plan to conquer Sicily.
During this period, the Catholic Church was reestablished and the Arabs were driven out of the island by 1091. Even though Malta was ruled by the Normans, the Maltese had a lot of liberties. They were even able to run their own businesses. Though, during this period Malta saw a rise in Maltese Nobility. With the erection of Palazzo Falzon, the Middle Ages were a poverty stricken era due to the amount of raids made by barbarians.
Due to it’s strategic location, the Rock was passed from one Noble family and Royals to another. These included Germans, French and Spanish who eventually gave the island to the knights of the Order of St John.
Traditional Maltese Fare
There was a growth in the cultivation of cotton while the Normans were in Malta. However, the most important trade was grain. The Cotton cultivation allowed us to have a high local expenditure on grain which produced the Maltese Bread. The bread is really one of a kind and delicious. The famous “hobza biz-zejt" is maltese bread filled with tomato paste, olives, tuna, butter beans and peppered goat cheese! This goes down heavenly with a glass of Kinnie!
