There’s something special about traditional Maltese tiles. It may be the vibrant colours, or possibly the intricate patterns, but there’s something that both locals and visitors to our islands just can’t get enough of.
Maltese tiles are made out of cement, and are a coveted feature in the typical Maltese townhouse - no matter your stylistic preferences; keep your original tiles in tip-top shape and design around them, as destroying any of these beauties is one of the most heinous crimes imaginable! If they’re not your cup of tea; another option is re-purposing them; you might be surprised at the pretty penny you could get from selling intact patterned tiles.
For many locals looking to purchase their own property, Maltese tiles are often a selling point, as the vibrant colours bring that typical Maltese character that many of us are deeply in love with. Mostly found in townhouses scattered across the island; these colourful features are often the obsession of Instagrammers who post shots of stunning tiles they spot while exploring the local streets. Peeping into houses through open doors or a visit to nanna could result in the perfect Insta shot - no filter needed!
Maltese patterned tiles find their roots in Turkey, where the traditional slabs date back to Ottoman rule. Around 300 years ago, these gems found a home in Malta, embellishing the floors of both rural and urban localities. The older, quainter villages have a stronger connection to this choice of flooring nowadays, but that’s probably due to the toll urbanisation plays on the bustling cities we now sport.
If you’re looking to get your hands on handmade cement tiles; there are still a few companies that make them in the traditional way, including Colombo in San Gwann and Hal Mann. While reclaimed tiles have an extra appeal, freshly made cement tiles are just as fascinating. Incorporated new tiles with the original tiles you may find in your old townhouse is not a bad idea either; the new inserts age rather gracefully while blending in with their original predecessors.
Many Maltese staples, including these colourful tiles, have found their way into local art too; hung on our walls and incorporated into everyday products that remind us of our heritage, or possibly a fantastic holiday on our tiny Mediterranean island! Stephanie Borg, a local artist based in Rabat, is on a mission to translate the stunning Maltese tiles she’s seen and collected into her creations. Be it within her original artwork, limited prints, crockery, tableware and other everyday products; the impact she instils perfectly represents the nostalgia and character the tiles hold.
Add some colour to your life the next time you're walking through a Maltese village - look down every now and then... you might find yourself stepping on your next Insta-worthy shot!