One of the most interesting Maltese traditions is Il-Gostra - a game played in the midst of summer during village feasts in seaside towns.  

The tradition, which dates back to the Middle Ages, uses a 10 to 16-metre long wooden pole covered in animal fat or grease as its main prop. Flags are stuck to the far end of the pole, which is then placed over the sea. The aim of the game is for participants to run from one end of the pole to another and grab a flag before falling into the sea. 

Needless to say, this makes for some very entertaining sights. 

Il-Gostra is most commonly played during Msida and St Julian’s’ village festi, which honour St Joseph and St Julian respectively. In fact, the activity has been an annual tradition in the Msida area since 1882. 

In true Msida fashion, Il-Gostra was played last weekend as part of the long list of festa-related activities. A video posted to social media shows the activity taking place in the Public Garden, just in front of the Parish Church. 

After a few failed attempts, the crowd of onlookers roared as one last participant managed to grab hold of the final flag. Other competitors joined in on the celebrations soon after.  

Would you ever play this game?

Luke Frances Portelli/ Facebook, & Clint Grima/ Youtube