Now this is what we call a throwback! These gorgeous photos depict Malta at various stages in the 20th century and they’re giving us major nostalgic vibes. Check them out!
1. The formation of the GWU 1943
This photo captures a historic moment for Maltese workers when the General Workers’ Union (GWU) was established.
2. Rocky Vale, St Julian’s (now Tigullio)
Sheesh that’s different. Rocky Vale, as it used to be called, is now the site of the popular clubbing area, Tigullio. We can’t imagine what this area was used for other than a party site.
3. Ghar id-Dud, Sliema 1900
Ghar id-Dud in Sliema has changed greatly since 1900. That’s practically unrecognisable to today’s sight, especially since the area was developed and has become one of the most popular towns to visit.
4. Sa Maison 1920
Have you ever seen anything like this? Sa Maison was totally different. Can you imagine seeing a goat (or sheep – we’re not exactly sure what that is) being milked in the middle of the road? We surely can’t!
5. Paola Square
Check her out! Paola’s square would be a place to gather on a hot summer’s day, but in true Maltese fashion, people would come prepared with foldable chairs and umbrellas to chat about the daily goss.
6. Il-Menqa, Marsa 1935
Marsa is basically a port, and an important one at that, while also connecting the north of Malta to the south. This photo is beautifully shot and shows at life of a time gone by.
7. Malta Railway
Yes, back in the day Malta had its very own Railway. It ran between 1883 and 1931 and took its passengers to certain places around the island. Some of the station still stand and a prominent one is that of Mdina.
8. Tower Road, Sliema 1931
Being one of the town’s busiest roads, it’s no surprise that shops were up and running even in 1931. While definitely different to nowadays, Sliema’s Tower Road does have some similarities though. We’d recognise that corner from miles away!
9. Floriana
Check her out! We know Floriana to be a busy town connecting to the capital. We definitely don’t remember this Floriana! But we do recognise the church and the granaries where major concerts are held each year.
10. Mriehel Aqueduct 1910
The Aqueduct, part of which still stands today, brought water from Rabat to the city. This photo shows what looks like the original Fleur de Lys arch. Nowadays, a replica stands on a roundabout at the same site where the original one stood.
11. Santa Venera 1912
1912 is quite the throwback and Santa Venera looks nothing like it does today. The tram was still running back then, with carts being drawn in the same street. If you tried that nowadays, you’d probably get run over!
12. Old Fish Market, Valletta 1930
What a sight! Valletta had its very own fish market back in the day. In 1930 sellers and customers would gather in this part of the capital. You’d probably heard a famous phrase like “Hawn tal-hut!” that enticed people to come over to buy fish.
13. Senglea 1930
This photo exudes calm and serenity. Senglea is one of the three cities and has incredible views of the Grand Harbour. You could easily get to the shore line by heading down a few steps.
14. Mgarr Harbour, Gozo
Gozo’s harbour welcomes countless tourists and locals on a daily basis, with ships working almost round the clock to facilitate these trips. Back in the day it was much quieter, though.
15. Pieta Creek 1942
This main road was once an entire creek. This photo shows works being done to widen the road to possibly have better access to the capital. This familiar road is now one of the busiest roads on the islands.
16. Valletta Carnival 1929
Carnival has always been an important event on the Maltese calendar and back in 1929 it was no different. Here, a car pulls a float decoration while carnival goers watch as it passes by. A tradition in the local Carnival celebrations, but nowadays, they’re much bigger and take almost a year to complete.
17. Hamrun Train Station circa 1900
Back when the Malta Railway was operating, this was the Hamrun Train Station in about 1900. Times have truly changed!
18. Mosta Rotunda 1960
Mosta’s Rotunda is one of the most magnificent churches we have on the island. This photo dates back to 1960, when works were being done on the cupola, also showing the gardens at Villa Gollcher.
19. Villa Sans Souci, Marsaxlokk
While it was beautiful back in the day and used as a residence, a hotel and by the air force, Villa Sans Souci is now shrouded with dread. Many people who have entered the now-abandoned building feel a sense of paranoia and often hear eerie noises. Whether the ghost stories are true or not, we’ll be admiring it from afar.
20. Malta Postal Service
Back in the day, the Malta Postal Service were out on bikes delivering mail. Nowadays, they travel around in cars and walk around their designated area.
Salvatore Muscat via Malta Lura Fil Passat / Facebook