Few places around the world have a past as rich and interesting as Malta’s. To this day, new historical discoveries are still being made, giving us better insight into our islands’ previous occupiers.
Testament to this is an obscure house tucked away in Bormla that has been converted into a museum…
Visitors to the museum are treated to a series of historical artifacts dating back to pretty much every era of Maltese history.
Prehistoric Times
The house and the remains found within it date back to Palaeolithic times – we’re talking around 12,000-10,000 B.C.
Remnants of statues were also found, however it isn’t yet known whether these date back to Phoenician or Neolithic times.
A plethora of clay tools were found underground; some date back to the Carthaginian era and others to the Roman era.
Possibly the rarest artifact in the entire museum is a remain from the Minoan civilisation. This is the only trace of the civilisation to have ever been found in Malta. These artifacts were most probably traded for food when the Minoan people docked in Bormla whilst they were passing through the Mediterranean.
The Knights of St John
The house was still in use when the Arabs took over Malta, as it is believed that they were the ones who turned it into the three-storey structure that it is today.
Having said that, the house was mostly used when Malta was under the rule of the Knights of St John.
Upon entering the house, you’ll be welcomed by the remains of a classic Malta antiporta, dating back to the 16th century. A diary which was discovered in the same house states that the rest of the antiporta, which has now been lost, showcased the emblems of the knights and grandmasters that used to live there.
In fact, it is alleged that the founder of Valletta himself, Grandmaster La Valette used to go to the house get away from the hustle and bustle of his role and savour some peace and quiet.
The Ottoman attacks
This house was conquered by the Ottomans during their attacks on Malta in the 16th century.
Historians know this because graffiti of an Ottoman archer was found on the walls of the third floor. However, after the attacks, the Knights of St John regained control of the house and restored it to its former glory.
Do you plan on visiting?