Join the acclaimed author and broadcaster on this fascinating visit to the Mediterranean island that includes tours of Valletta, Gozo and Rabat
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Sitting between Europe and Africa, Malta's location in the
Mediterranean has meant it has been strategically important
throughout history. Colonised by the Phoenicians, the Romans,
Byzantines and Aghlabids, Spanish, British and Ottomans have
variously ruled or laid seige to the island. The story of World War
II Malta, however, is perhaps not as well known. On this
fascinating eight-day tour of the magical island, you will learn
about the history during the conflict from broadcaster and author
of Fortress Malta - An Island Under Siege, James
Holland.
Vital in the battle against the Italian navy in the Axis
shipping lanes, the island suffered devastation at the hands of
German and Italian bombers. The people's courage under this
bombardment saw the island awarded the George Cross by King George
VI in 1942. James will deliver an exclusive talk on the subject as
well as answering any questions you might have in a private Q&A
session. He will also join you on a tour of the 16th-century city
of Valletta, which during World War II was effectively razed to the
ground. With its tall honey-coloured houses, bedecked with
geraniums, the lively buzz belies the dramatic history of the
city.
Heading further back in time, you will visit two of the world's
oldest free-standing structures in prehistoric temples Ggantija and
Hagar Qim and enjoy the delights of ancient capital Mdina, as well
as the unspoilt island of Gozo. In Rabat, you will discover over a
thousand tombs in the fourth-century Christian burial chambers of
St Paul's, which provide some of the earliest evidence of the
religion on the island. You will also have ample time at your
leisure to explore the rugged coastline or enjoy the country's
fabulous fishing restaurants.
