Malta - Country facts
Location
Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
Background
Great Britain formally acquired possession of Malta in 1814. The island staunchly supported the UK through both World Wars and remained in the Commonwealth when it became independent in 1964. A decade later Malta became a republic. Since about the mid-1980s, the island has transformed itself into a freight transshipment point, a financial center, and a tourist destination. Malta became an EU member in May of 2004.
Climate
Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers
Terrain
mostly low, rocky, flat to dissected plains; many coastal cliffs
Population
398,534 (July 2005 est.)
Ethnic Groups
Maltese (descendants of ancient Carthaginians and Phoenicians, with strong elements of Italian and other Mediterranean stock)
Religions
Roman Catholic 98%
Languages
Maltese (official), English (official)
Map of Malta
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