The National Archives Facebook page took to their social media to highlight an advert from 1934, shedding light on the Imnarja historic event from over 90 years ago. The advertisement, notable for its poor quality of Maltese orthography, reflects the linguistic evolution of the time.

Interestingly, 1934 was a pivotal year for the Maltese language. On the 16th of August of that year, Maltese was declared an official language of Malta, alongside English. This recognition marked a significant step in the preservation and promotion of Maltese culture and identity.

The Imnarja exhibition, with its roots in traditional agrarian practices, provided a platform for local farmers to showcase their produce and livestock. It was a celebration of rural life, complete with competitions, displays, and community gatherings. The event attracted participants and visitors from across the island, reinforcing the importance of agriculture in Maltese society. It still happens yearly to this day on the 29th of July.

The 1934 advertisement serves as a historical artefact, illustrating the linguistic and cultural landscape of Malta at the time.

Have you ever been to an Imnarja celebration in Malta?