There are five Maltese islands,
three of which are inhabited. Malta is the largest of the
five with an area of 320km² (122 miles²). Gozo is
the second largest (67km²/26 miles²). Next in size
is Comino with a size of 3km² (1 mile²). Southwest
of Malta lies two islets, Filfla and Gominotto.
The geography of Malta is characterised by limestone plateaus.
It is an arid, rocky landscape with no mountains, rivers or
lakes. The landscape is characterised by low hills with terraced
fields. Malta has no mountains or rivers. Its coastline is
indented with harbours, bays, creeks, sandy beaches and rocky
coves. Gozo is connected to Malta by ferry and is more thickly
vegetated, with many flat-topped hills and craggy cliffs.
Although a number of excellent beaches can be found scattered
along the coastline, it is predominantly rocky. The coastline
on the southern side of the island has several natural bays.
The subsoil on Gozo is more water-retentive, with the result
that it is far greener and more fertile than Malta. Most of
the country's food is produced on this island.
The islands' soil is generally thin and rocky, yielding very
little flora. The main exception is Buskett Gardens, a lush
valley of trees and orange groves protected by the imposing
Dingli Cliffs on the southwestern coast of Malta.
Go
to Guides on Malta
TIME: GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to
Saturday before last Sunday in October).
ELECTRICITY: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. UK-style 3-pin plug
are in use. The electric current is usually 240 volts (650
cycles). Square fitting three pin plugs (British style) are
used, so remember to bring an adapter for all two pin appliances.
|
