Culture
Nostalgia alert! These landmarks around Malta & Gozo are unrecognisable in these vintage photos
Absolutely incredible!

Jillian Mallia

What a throwback! These incredible shots will definitely bring back nostalgia for both locals and people who used to live here. Take a trip down memory lane!

1. Addolorata Cemetery, Paola

The Addolorata Cemetry is nothing like it is today. Located in Paola, the state-owned cemetery is the largest burial ground on the islands and has been expanded a number of times over the years. Construction started in 1862 and was designed by renowned architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia. While it was opened in 1869, the first burial only took place in January 1872.

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2. Balluta Bay, St Julian’s

This is a familiar view as you drive down from Mrabat. Balluta Bay, everyone! The trees are a distinguishable feature, with the area now having a variety of restaurants, bars, kiosks, coffee shops and ice-cream parlours to choose from.

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3. Chalet, Sliema

Busy as ever, the Sliema front, particularly near Chalet was a go-to spot for locals. Located at Ghar id-Dud, the Chalet building no longer stands today. It became a popular (and risky) jumping spot for swimmers, with the ledge being closed in recent years as it was deemed unsafe.

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4. Pretty Bay, Birzebbuga

A gorgeous sight! Pretty Bay in Birzebbuga is (and probably always will be) one of the most popular swimming spots in the south of Malta. Many people have fond memories swimming with their parents and grandparents here, nibbling on scrumptious hobz biz-zejt which was then followed by an ice-cream - if you were on your best behaviour, that is!

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5. Ghajn Zejtuna, Mellieha

Talk about incredible views! Ghajn Zejtuna is known for its spectacular surroundings, but a lot has changed since it was photographed here. Wied Ghajn Zejtuna is now known as Santa Marija Estate, the place that has insane villas coupled with insane views.

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6. View from Mdina

Views from Mdina are undoubtedly some of the best across the Maltese Islands. From the historically laden bastions of Malta’s Silent City, one can take in the breath-taking panoramic sights of various localities below the beautiful town. 

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7. Mgarr Harbour, Gozo

A recognisable go-to spot – Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour! We’ve all taken a trip to Malta’s sister isle and this is the first place to welcome us upon arrival. The beautiful rural area still exists today, with a local sharing a photo taken just last week. And how about those views?!

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8. Mosta Dome

This was perhaps the easiest to identify. Pictured is the majestic Mosta Dome in all its glory. It’s famously known for the miracle that occurred during WWII: a bomb fell through the ceiling during mass but luckily didn’t explode. Fun fact: the Rotunda has actually been bumped up to Basilica status and has the third largest unsupported dome in the world.

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9. Madliena

Unrecognisable! This gorgeous spot is actually Madliena, which part though, is debatable. It’s either the hill that leads to Gharghur or it could possibly be part of what is now the Coast Road. Any ideas?

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10. Sliema Ferries

What a different time! Sliema Ferries looks a little bare compared to the bustling hub it has turned into today. Now a busy bus terminus and shopping hot spot, Sliema Ferries back in the day seemed a lot quieter than the popular area it is today.

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Aren't our islands just gorgeous gems?

Reproduced with permission from a set of postcards “Lost Landmarks” available from Wise Owl Publications

20th July 2022


Jillian Mallia
Written by
Jillian Mallia
A book lover, writer and globetrotter who loves exploring new places and the local gems that the Maltese Islands have to offer. An avid foodie and arts fanatic, Jillian searches the island and beyond for the perfect settings to write about.

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