Malta: An Ideal Place for Learning English
Why should I learn English in Malta?
Imagine learning English surrounded by stunning beaches, good humoured people, perfect weather all year round and a rich history! As Malta is an English-speaking country, you can practise your English every day with friendly locals, fellow language students and, of course, your expert English teacher. You'll meet students from around the world, enjoying a safe, sunny adventure together. Swim in clear waters, explore historical sites, and partake in lively festivals while soaking up the vibrant Maltese culture and language. Find out more about visiting Malta here.
What Are The Official Languages Spoken in Malta?
The official languages are Maltese and English. English is the joint official language of Malta and is spoken by almost the whole population. It was introduced to the island in 1800, when the British ousted the French garrison, which had taken control of Malta in 1798. Due to Malta's strategic position in the middle of the Mediterranean, it became the headquarters of the British navy. Some attempts were made in the 1950's to integrate the island as a full part of the United Kingdom. Despite this, Malta became independent in 1964 as a Dominion within the British Commonwealth, with Elisabeth II as head of state. Finally, in 1974, the island became a Republic and the last British troops left in 1979.
English is very important in Malta as it is the language in which the majority of affairs are conducted. A good example is the University of Malta, which offers most of its courses in English. The most important daily newspapers and media are in English. It is therefore easy for Anglophones to get by in Malta, as the language is used in every aspect of life on a daily basis. English is taught in schools from an early age and parents encourage their children to communicate in English.
Maltese, the other official language, a Semitic language which descended from Maghrebi Arabic, with many borrowings from Italian and, in particular, Sicilian. The Maltese alphabet is based on the Latin alphabet, but uses the diacritically altered letters ลผ, also found in Polish, as well as the letters ฤ, ฤก, gฤง, ฤง and ie, which are unique to Maltese.
Italian was an official language until the 1930s and is widely spoken as a third language. French, German and Spanish, amongst other languages, are taught as foreign languages in secondary schools.
Why Is Malta An English Speaking Country?
Ever wondered why people in Malta speak English? Well, English is one of the two main languages there, along with Maltese, and it's helped make Malta a hot spot for learning English nowadays! This is thanks to the awesome activities on the islands, the super friendly folks, and oh - the cool parties and adventures that never seem to stop.
So, why English? Let's dig into it a bit!
Malta has a wild language history, absorbing bits from lots of cultures around the Mediterranean Sea for hundreds of years. The Maltese language itself is a cool mix of Arabic, French, Spanish, Italian, and yup, English! It has roots in a language called Siculo-Arabic, thanks to a blend of influences from various settlers like the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans.
Fast forward a bit: Arabic was the big language until the 1500s, but when Malta got cozy with the Spanish Empire, Spanish took the stage. Even the big bosses of the island, like the Grand Masters and local nobility, used it for all the important paperwork.
In the late 1700s, the French, led by Napoleon, popped by and decided Malta was going to be part of their empire. That's when French and Italian got really popular, and English started to gain some traction too thanks to the influence of the British.
After a short French stint, the Maltese people, with a high five from the British, kicked them out in 1800. Then Malta essentially became a British spot, making English official in 1813, and it stuck around even after the archipelago became its own boss in 1964.
Today, English is super common in Malta, followed by Maltese and a bit of Italian. All of these language shifts over the centuries have turned Malta into the diverse and multicultural place it is now.
What makes Malta a cosmopolitan place?
Diverse cultural influences: Malta has been influenced by numerous cultures over the centuries, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, French and British. These diverse influences have created a unique, cosmopolitan culture that can be seen in the language, architecture and lifestyle.
Strategic location: Due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean, Malta has often been a hub for trade and military activity and has served as a base for cultures and civilisations to intermingle.
Migration: The island has welcomed many immigrants from different countries over the past decades, contributing to a diverse population.
Labour market: As a English speking country Malta also attracts expatriates and professionals from all over the world who work in various sectors such as iGaming, finance and technology.
EU membership: As a member of the European Union (since 2004), Malta maintains close relations with many other European countries, promoting international exchanges such as learning English and participating in joint political and economic initiatives.
Easy Visa and entry requirements: In addition to EU citizens, travellers from many other countries can enter Malta without or can easily obtain a Visa on the spot.
Open economy: Malta also maintains a very open and trade-oriented economy, which reinforces its integration into the global comunity and attracts many employed workers and digital nomads.
Popular destination: Malta attracts tourists from all over the world every year, thanks to its beautiful beaches, the english language used everywhere, historical sites and cultural events.
International Events: Various festivals and events with an international focus, such as the Valletta Film Festival or the Malta Jazz Festival, also attract an international audience.
English as an official language: Along with Maltese, English is one of the official languages, which facilitates communication and integration for people from all over the world.
Educational institutions: Malta is also home to many international schools and universities, and it has established itself as a location of language schools.
Convinced? Then enroll today and secure your place on one of our English courses.