A recent Facebook post featuring what appears to be an excerpt from a book has raised some interest in the names of old villages in Malta - many of which are no longer in use. The list reveals how these historic localities have since merged with the towns and villages we know today, offering a fascinating look into Malta’s evolving landscape.

Some of these names remain somewhat familiar today. For example, Ħal Far, situated between Żurrieq and Ħal Safi, is still used regularly, as are Bubaqra and Nigret, now considered parts of Żurrieq.

However, other names might come as a surprise, such as Ħal Musulmet in Naxxar or Ħal Pessa in Gudja, which have largely faded from memory. These forgotten names are a reminder of Malta’s rich history and the continuous development of its localities.

These names can also be spotted in older Maltese literature, reminiscent of a time when these village names were still used. For example, a book from the series 'Leġġendi Maltin' goes by the title 'Il-Ġnien ta' Ħal Mula', and describes a legend dating back to the Middle Ages. 

What was your locality called way back when?