The Republic of Malta is an archipelago of islands in the Mediterranean Sea lying south of Sicily, east of Tunisia and north of Libya. Covering just 316 square kms it is one of the world's smallest countries.

The archipelago is made up of several islands, the largest being Malta, Gozo and Comino. The capital of Malta is Valletta, which is also the smallest capital in the EU. The Maltese Islands have a dramatic rocky coastline, and the islanders have a strong connection with the sea. The islands' location has given it strategic importance throughout history and a succession of powers including Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, the Knights of St John, the French and the British have ruled the islands. Malta is a popular tourist destination on account of it's climate, coastline, historical monuments and megalithic temples. The island of Gozo is much quieter and less spoilt than Malta, and the perfect destination for a walking holiday.