A tiny island plump in the middle of the azure Mediterranean Malta might just be the perfect summer holiday destination. Surprisingly considering its location, its charm isn't just contained in its idyllic beaches and perfect weather - although those come as standard.

Malta contains a wealth of history. Barely 300 square kilometres in size this "fortress island" has on more than one occasion been the last bastion against invading forces seeking to sweep over continental Europe. In World War Two it famously withstood invading Italian forces but most notably its formidable medieval defences proved more than the match for the entire Ottoman Empire, in the Great Siege of 1565.


The people who manned these fortresses and towers are likewise legendary - this was the home of the Knights of St John, a band of aristocratic erstwhile crusaders often now known simply as the Knights of Malta.

The walled capital Valletta was established by the pope as tribute to the courage of the knights, with the papal architect of the time employed to create the city. Walter Scott described Valletta as being built "By gentlemen for gentlemen" and it's a fitting motto. Later baroque embellishments have only added to its charm.

Malta has a long history. The megalithic temples that are scattered around the island - particularly those at Hagar Qim and Ggantija - are astounding examples of simple architecture, predating the pyramids by up to 1,000 years. It's a spine-tingling experience to stand among the ruins and think of the builders of these edifices more than five millennia ago.