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Malta’s moonlit moment goes worldwide! Darrin Zammit Lupi’s Strawberry Moon photo featured by TIME Magazine
A proud moment for the talented photographer!

Francesca Vella

Malta’s skies put on a spectacular show this week with the arrival of the much-anticipated Strawberry Moon, and one Maltese photographer managed to capture the moment in truly unforgettable fashion.

Earlier this week, local photojournalist Darrin Zammit Lupi shared his breathtaking shot of the full moon as it rose over Malta. The image quickly captivated his local followers, both on the islands and overseas, drawing admiration for its striking clarity and atmospheric glow, featuring Valletta’s St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral and the dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in the foreground.

But by Tuesday evening, that appreciation skyrocketed!

TIME magazine, one of the world’s most iconic publications, featured Darrin’s photograph in a stunning roundup of Strawberry Moon shots from around the globe. His image stood proudly alongside other top-tier moon captures from international photographers, earning global attention and showcasing Malta’s natural and architectural beauty on the world stage.

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A post shared by TIME (@time)

The inclusion in TIME’s feature post led to an explosion in visibility for the photo, with shares and likes multiplying by the thousands overnight.

The Strawberry Moon, which marks the last full moon of spring or the first of summer, gets its name from Native American traditions and is often celebrated for its warm, pinkish hue. This year’s appearance didn’t disappoint, and thanks to Darrin’s keen eye and talent, Malta’s view of it will be remembered long after the moon has waned.

Congratulations Darrin!

12th June 2025


Francesca Vella
Written by
Francesca Vella
Francesca has always felt most at home in a cinema or theatre, particularly if musicals are involved. She loves to read, write, and share about her experiences of both the fictional and the real world.

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