Salt production has a long and rich history in Malta, with its significance extending far beyond the kitchen. Used extensively for food preservation, salt has been an essential commodity for centuries. The salt pans, or ‘salini,’ are a testament to this tradition, with their presence in Malta documented as far back as the fifteenth century.

Among the various salt pans across the Maltese Islands, the Burmarrad salt pans stand out as the largest. Constructed in the sixteenth century by the Order of St. John, these salt pans differ from others found in the region. While many of Malta's salt pans are carved directly into the rock, the Burmarrad salt pans were built using a different technique, reflecting the advanced engineering practices of the time.

These historical structures not only highlight the ingenuity of past generations but also underscore the importance of salt production in Malta’s economic and cultural heritage.

The Burmarrad salt pans are more than just a site of salt extraction; they are a living monument to the island's history, showcasing the intersection of natural resources and human craftsmanship.

Today, they continue to remind us of Malta's long-standing relationship with salt, a simple yet vital resource that has shaped the island's history for centuries.

Did you know about these interesting facts about Malta’s salt?