Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, with 500,000 people. It has a rich history and culture, dating back to the ancient times. Malta is known for its 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the megalithic temples and the city of Valletta. Malta also has a clear and clean sea, attracting tourists and divers.
Malta has produced famous people in various fields, such as entertainment, sports and science. Joseph Calleja, a world-known opera singer who has performed in many prestigious venues and festivals; Ira Losco, a singer and songwriter who represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest twice, in 2002 and 2016; and Aramis Knight, an actor who starred in the Netflix series Into the Badlands and the film Ender's Game.
Listed below are the most famous Maltese.
- Jonathan Brincat. Jonathan Brincat is a content creator and chef with two websites to showcase his work. He is based in Malta but is willing to travel to any destination to provide his services. He has a bachelor's degree in creative media production and a professional diploma in digital marketing.
- Joseph Vella. Joseph Vella is a Maltese composer and conductor. He is widely regarded as Malta's leading contemporary composer and his works have been performed internationally. He has composed over 150 works, from solo to symphonies, operas and oratorios. He has also received several awards and honors for his contributions to music.
- Ira Losco. Ira Losco is a pop singer from Malta. She was born on 31 July 1981 in Sliema, a coastal town in the island's central region. She started her musical career in 1998 with a college band called Tiara, but they split up shortly after she represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest 2002.
- Andrew Selby. Andrew Selby is a Welsh former professional boxer who held the British flyweight title from 2016 to 2019. He was born on 25 December 1988 in Cardiff, Wales and is the younger brother of former featherweight world champion Lee Selby. He retired from boxing in 2020 at the age of 31.
- Mike Spiteri. Mike Spiteri is a Maltese singer who has been active in the music industry for over 50 years. He is known for his distinctive voice and popular Maltese songs, such as “Fejn Tħobb Il-Qalb” and “Fjura Fil-Kantina”. He also represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest 1995 with the song “Keep Me in Mind”.
1. Jonathan Brincat
Jonathan Brincat is a content creator and chef with two websites to showcase his work. He is based in Malta but is willing to travel to any destination to provide his services. He has a bachelor's degree in creative media production and a professional diploma in digital marketing. Jonathan Brincat specializes in photography and videography as a content creator. He offers various packages for weddings, events, portraits and commercial projects. He also has a portfolio of his previous work, featuring images and videos of different themes and locations. Jonathan Brincat, as a chef, is the founder and co-owner of Noni, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Valletta, the capital city of Malta. He is also known as Noni, the name of his restaurant and nickname. He has worked in different roles at five-star luxury and gastronomic establishments in Malta and abroad.
Jonathan Brincat's culinary style is influenced by his Maltese heritage and his international experience. He re-invents local traditions by adding a contemporary twist while spotlighting seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. He has won several awards for his innovative and delicious dishes. Noni has a modern decor and a warm atmosphere, but it retains various elements from its past, such as the stone vaults, cast-iron doors and apertures and a centuries-old oven. Noni offers a fine dining experience set to impress and delight its visitors. The restaurant has a variety of menus, including a tasting menu, a vegetarian menu, a lunch menu and a wine list. The restaurant also caters for private events and special occasions, such as weddings, birthdays and anniversaries.
2. Joseph Vella
Joseph Vella is a Maltese composer and conductor. He is widely regarded as Malta's leading contemporary composer and his works have been performed internationally. He has composed over 150 works, from solo to symphonies, operas and oratorios. He has also received several awards and honors for his contributions to music. Joseph Vella was born in 1942 in Victoria, Gozo, Malta. He started his musical education early, studying piano, violin and theory. He later attended the University of Malta, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1964. He then pursued further studies in composition and conducting at the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia in Rome, Italy, graduating in 1970.
Joseph Vella has held various academic and administrative positions throughout his career. He was the director of the Manoel Theatre Academy of Dramatic Art from 1977 to 1980, the head of the music department at the University of Malta from 1983 to 1996 and the dean of the Faculty of Arts from 1996 to 2001. He also served as the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts chairman from 2002 to 2005. Joseph Vella has composed music for various genres and media, including chamber, orchestral, vocal, film and electronic music. Some of his notable works include Requiem (1979), The Hyland Mass (1994), The True Face of God (2016) and Credo (2016). He has also written several operas, such as Aroldo (1984), Il-Kantilena (1999) and L'Isola Within (2009).
Joseph Vella has conducted several orchestras and ensembles in Malta and abroad. He has worked with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, the Orchestra Sinfonica di Roma, the Orchestra Sinfonica Siciliana, the Orchestra Sinfonica di Sanremo and the Orchestra Sinfonica di Lecce, among others. He has also collaborated with well-known soloists, such as violinist Carmine Lauri, pianist Charlene Farrugia and soprano Miriam Gauci. Joseph Vella has received many accolades and distinctions for his musical achievements. He was awarded the Medal for Service to the Republic of Malta in 1990, the Premio Internazionale di Composizione Città di Udine in 1994, the Malta Cultural Award in 1996 and the National Order of Merit in 2000. He was appointed as a Knight of the Order of St John in 2015 and a Knight of the Order of Malta in 2016.
3. Ira Losco
Ira Losco is a pop singer from Malta. She was born on 31 July 1981 in Sliema, a coastal town in the island's central region. She started her musical career in 1998 with a college band called Tiara, but they split up shortly after she represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest 2002. Ira Losco achieved her career breakthrough in 2002 when she sang “7th Wonder” at the Eurovision Song Contest in Tallinn, Estonia. She finished second in the competition, which was Malta's best-ever result until it was equaled in 2005. She also performed the official song of the Xth Games of the Small States of Europe Malta 2003, “Reaching Higher”.
Ira Losco has released six studio albums so far and has won more than 20 music awards. She is one of the most successful Maltese musicians of all time and has performed in over 15 countries. She has shared the stage with international stars such as Elton John, Katie Melua, Maroon 5, Akon, Melanie C, Ronan Keating, Bob Geldof, Tokio Hotel and Gigi D'Alessio. Ira Losco returned to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2016 with the song “Walk on Water”. She initially won the national selection with another song, “Chameleon”, but decided to change it to improve Malta's chances of winning. She placed twelfth in the final, which was held in Stockholm, Sweden.
Ira Losco is also involved in advertising and social causes in her country. She has endorsed brands such as Guess, McDonald's Salad Plus and Vodafone. She has supported campaigns for animal rights, breast cancer awareness and anti-bullying. She was awarded the Midalja għall-Qadi tar-Repubblika (Medal for Service to the Republic) in 2008. Ira Losco became a judge on the first season of X Factor Malta in 2018 and returned for the second season in 2019. She also released a double album, “No Sinner No Saint”, to commemorate her 15th year in the music industry. She is currently working on new projects and collaborations.
4. Andrew Selby
Andrew Selby is a Welsh former professional boxer who held the British flyweight title from 2016 to 2019. He was born on 25 December 1988 in Cardiff, Wales and is the younger brother of former featherweight world champion Lee Selby. He retired from boxing in 2020 at the age of 31. Andrew Selby had a successful amateur career, winning a silver medal at the 2011 World Championships, bronze at the 2013 World Championships and gold at the 2011 and 2013 European Championships, all in the flyweight division. He also represented Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics, reaching the quarterfinals.
Andrew Selby made his professional debut on 30 October 2015, stopping Tanzanian Haji Juma in the second round. He won his first 13 fights, including the British, IBF Inter-Continental and WBC International flyweight titles. He defeated Cristofer Rosales, Maximino Flores and Jake Bornea. Andrew Selby suffered his first and only professional loss on 23 March 2019, when he was knocked out by Julio Cesar Martinez in the first round in Mexico. The fight was an eliminator for the WBC flyweight title, which Martinez later won. Selby returned to the ring six months later, winning two more fights in Dubai and Newcastle.
Andrew Selby announced his retirement from boxing on 18 June 2020, citing personal reasons. He said he had lost his passion for the sport and wanted to spend more time with his family. He also thanked his fans, promoters and trainers for their support throughout his career. Andrew Selby is among his generation's most talented and decorated Welsh boxers. He recorded 13 wins, one loss, seven professional knockouts and several amateur medals and titles. He is also known for his speed, skill and flashy style in the ring.
5. Mike Spiteri
Mike Spiteri is a Maltese singer who has been active in the music industry for over 50 years. He is known for his distinctive voice and popular Maltese songs, such as “Fejn Tħobb Il-Qalb” and “Fjura Fil-Kantina”. He also represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest 1995 with the song “Keep Me in Mind”. Mike Spiteri began his singing career in the late 1960s when he joined the rock group Dragster as the lead vocalist. He soon became one of the leading figures of the progressive rock scene in Malta and performed in various venues and festivals. He also worked as a professional singer in Tunisia in the early 1980s.
In 1983, Mike Spiteri won the International Malta Song Festival with the song “Computer”. He continued participating in various local and international song contests and achieved his biggest success in 1995 when he placed 10th out of 23 countries in the Eurovision Song Contest with the soul-influenced power ballad “Keep Me in Mind”. Mike Spiteri is also known for his songs in the Maltese language, which he considers beautiful and melodious. Some of his most famous songs are “Fejn Tħobb Il-Qalb” (Wherever the Heart Loves) and “Fjura Fil-Kantina” (Flower in the Vault), which have become classics of the Maltese music repertoire. He has sung these songs thousands of times and has never grown tired of them.
Mike Spiteri has faced many challenges and sacrifices in his musical career but has always been determined and passionate about his craft. He has raised a family of three children from his music career and has learned to appreciate the simple things in life, such as the quiet, the peace and the greenery. He lives in a rural area in Malta, where he enjoys nature. Mike Spiteri has received several awards and recognitions for his contribution to the Maltese music scene. In 2019, he was honored by the “Għajna tal-Poplu” festival, along with another Maltese singer, Hooligan. He is regarded as one of Malta's most influential and respected singers and a role model for many aspiring musicians.
6. Vince Briffa
Vince Briffa is a Maltese artist who works with different media, such as video, sculpture, installation and writing. He was born in Malta in 1958 and lives and works there. He studied Fine Art at the Edinburgh College of Art and obtained an MA with distinction in Fine Art and Digital Media from Leeds University and a PhD from the Electronic and Digital Art Unit of the University of Central Lancashire in the UK. Vince Briffa's work explores the co-existence of dualities, such as reality and fiction, past and present, physical and virtual. He uses collections of objects and images, both real and digital, to create new forms of expression that question the boundaries and connections between opposing poles. He also investigates the role of the ‘screen' as a seam that binds together disparate realities.
Vince Briffa has exhibited his work in solo and group exhibitions in various countries, including the Venice Biennale, the Hermes, the Civitella Ranieri Foundation and the ISTRA Foundation. Some of his major works are Hermes, Body of Glass – After Caravaggio, Playing God, Logos, Outland and Kiss the Sky. He has also curated international exhibitions, such as Digital Discourse, republic, Analogue and Watch. Vince Briffa is a lecturer and researcher in Video, Fine and New Media Art. He is the Head of the Department of Digital Arts at the University of Malta and a visiting lecturer at the Unit for Contemporary Art Practice at the University of Leeds and the School of Creative and Performing Arts at the University of Central Lancashire. He has received several awards, including the Omaggio all’Arte ed all’Innovazione a Venezia 2019 and the Associate Professorship at the University of Malta.
Vince Briffa is a founding member of stART, a group of Maltese contemporary artists and an ISTRA Foundation for Arts and Research co-founder. He is also an International Associate of CUT Contemporary Fine Arts Lab in Cyprus and a Fellow of the Civitella Ranieri Foundation in Italy. Vince Briffa's work is part of the collections of several museums and institutions, such as the Museum of Modern Art in Vaduz, Liechtenstein, the Casoria Contemporary Art Museum in Naples, Italy, the Pierides Museum of Contemporary Art in Nicosia, Cyprus, the MAC – Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Santa Fe, Argentina, the U.S. Department of State – Art in Embassies and the Museum of Fine Art in Valletta, Malta.
7. Nicky Saliba
Nicky Saliba is a former professional footballer from Malta. He played as a midfielder for most of his career. He is also a former manager of Valletta, one of the top clubs in Malta. Nicky Saliba started his career with Msida Saint-Joseph in 1986. He moved to Valletta in 1987 and stayed there until 2003. He made 287 appearances and scored 21 goals for Valletta in the Maltese Premier League. He won six league titles and several other trophies with Valletta.
Nicky Saliba also represented Malta at the international level. He debuted for the national team in 1988 and played until 2003. He earned 68 caps and scored four goals for Malta. He played in the Euro 2000 qualifying campaign, scoring against FR Yugoslavia. Nicky Saliba retired from playing in 2003. He became Valletta's team manager in 2010. He helped Valletta win the league title in 2010-11 and 2011-12. He also oversaw Valletta's participation in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League.
Nicky Saliba is one of the most respected and successful footballers in Malta. Valletta fans regard him as a legend and a role model for many young players. He has been inducted into the Malta Football Hall of Fame. Nicky Saliba is also a qualified dietitian. He runs a clinic called Eatsense, advising clients on nutrition and health. He is passionate about educating the public about eating well and moving their bodies.
8. Sean Gravina
Sean Gravina is a Maltese chef and a former water polo player. He was born on 21 October 1986 in St. Julian's, Malta. He has two children with his wife, Ira Losco, a singer and songwriter. Sean Gravina graduated from the Institute of Tourism Studies in Malta. He started his career cooking for staff at The Hilton Malta and Chez Phillipe, a French restaurant. He then moved to London to study at Le Cordon Bleu, where he received a Cuisine Diploma.
In London, Sean Gravina worked for some of the world's most famous chefs and restaurants. He joined Gordon Ramsay's team at Maze, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves French and Asian fusion cuisine. He also worked at The Dorchester, a luxury hotel, under the guidance of Chef Wolfgang Puck, a celebrity chef and restaurateur. Sean Gravina returned to Malta in 2014 and participated in the seventh series of MasterChef, a popular cooking competition show on BBC2. He reached the quarter-final stage and impressed the judges with his skills and creativity. He became one of the most well-known chefs in Malta after his appearance on the show.
Sean Gravina is the Chef Patron of Crust, a bakery and bistro serving fresh bread, pastries, salads, sandwiches, pizzas and burgers. He opened the place in 2016 with his business partner, Matthew Pace. Crust is located in Valletta, the capital city of Malta and has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Sean Gravina is also a food stylist and a media personality. He also appears on various TV shows and magazines, sharing his culinary tips and insights. He is passionate about promoting Maltese cuisine and culture to the world.
9. Joseph Calleja
Joseph Calleja is a Maltese operatic tenor who has become one of today's most acclaimed and sought-after singers. He was born on January 22, 1978, in Attard, a town in central Malta. He discovered his passion for singing at 16 when he was inspired by a recording of Mario Lanza. He studied with Maltese tenor Paul Asciak and made his operatic debut at 19. Joseph Calleja's career took off after he won several prestigious competitions, such as the Caruso Competition in Milan and the Operalia in Paris. He has performed in many of the world's leading opera houses, such as the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London and the Vienna State Opera. He has also sung with popular conductors like Riccardo Muti, Antonio Pappano and Daniel Barenboim.
Joseph Calleja's voice is often compared to that of legendary past singers, such as Jussi Björling, Beniamino Gigli and Enrico Caruso. He is known for his expressive and elegant singing, warm and rich tone and effortless high notes. He has a wide repertoire, ranging from Mozart and Donizetti to Verdi and Puccini. Some of his signature roles are Rodolfo in La bohème, Alfredo in La traviata and the Duke of Mantua in Rigoletto. Joseph Calleja has also recorded several solo albums and DVDs, which have received critical acclaim and commercial success. His album Joseph Calleja – The Maltese Tenor reached second on the German charts and first on the US Billboard Classical Traditional chart. His DVD of La traviata with Renée Fleming was nominated for a Grammy award. His latest album, The Magic of Mantovani, features his interpretations of the popular songs of Mantovani, a British-Italian conductor and composer.
Joseph Calleja is a celebrated artist, a generous philanthropist and a proud ambassador of his country. He has established two foundations, the BOV Joseph Calleja Foundation and the Drake Calleja Trust, which support talented and disadvantaged children and young musicians in Malta and the UK. He has also been appointed as Malta's first Cultural Ambassador, a role that allows him to promote the island's history and diversity through his words and actions. Joseph Calleja is a father of two children, whom he considers his greatest joy and inspiration. He lives in Malta, where he enjoys life's simple pleasures, such as fishing, cooking and reading. He is also a fan of football and supports Manchester United.
10. Andre Mangion
Andre Mangion is an actor, writer and creative producer from Malta. He has performed in various types of theatre productions, such as classical, contemporary, physical, devised, ensemble, musicals, ballet and opera. He has also participated in literary events and read the works of different Maltese authors.
As a writer, Andre Mangion has written original and commissioned works for the theatre, such as Drago, Raymond “Fight” Beck and Rinoċeronti. He has also worked on translations and adaptations for the Trikki Trakki – Theatre Youth Festival. He has written scripts for television and short films, such as Transmissjoni Indiretta, which was produced by One TV. He has led workshops on writing in schools and for Teatru Malta. As a creative producer, Andre Mangion is responsible for managing the entire production process, from the concept creation to the delivery of the product. He also takes care of the financial aspects, the partnerships with entities and sponsors and the coordination and employment of artistic and technical staff.
Andre Mangion is currently the artistic director of Teatru Malta, the national theatre company of Malta. He oversees the artistic vision, the programming and the development of the company. He also works closely with the executive director, the board of directors and the stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and growth of the company. Andre Mangion has a diploma in business administration from the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology. He also has a master of law degree from the University of Malta. He has attended various courses and workshops on theatre, writing and producing locally and internationally.
11. Davide Tucci
Davide Tucci is a Maltese actor and model born on 14 September 1987 in Isola del Liri, Italy. His father is Italian and his mother is Maltese. He moved to Malta with his family when he was young and attended St Aloysius College. Davide Tucci started his career in musical theatre with Spring Awakening and then pursued modeling, which earned him two awards at the Malta Fashion Awards in 2010 and 2011. He became popular in Malta for his TV roles as Clyde Montaldo in Katrina, Alex Mamo in Ic-Caqqufa and Brimbu in Division 7.
Davide Tucci also appeared in several movies and TV series, such as 13 Hours. The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, Limestone Cowboy, Dangerous Arrangement, Barbarians and Those About to Die. He works in English, Maltese and Italian languages. He is also a stage actor who has performed in plays like Jiena Nhobb, Inti Thobb, Marti Martek, Martek Marti, Faith, Hope u Charity, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Balzunetta Towers. Davide Tucci is interested in music, art and sports. He likes to travel, adventure, horse ride and cook. He is always looking for new challenges and opportunities for growth. He is 5 feet 11 inches (1.8 meters) tall and has brown hair and blue eyes.
Davide Tucci has been featured in many interviews and articles, such as Platea by Lino Mallia, where he was the youngest actor interviewed on the program. He has also been praised by critics and fans for his versatility and talent. Davide Tucci is currently working on several projects, such as Miss Fallaci, where he plays Frank Sinatra and Minore, where he plays William. He is one of the most successful and influential actors in Malta.
12. Emvin Cremona
Emvin Cremona was a Maltese artist and stamp designer. He was born on May 27, 1919, in Valletta, the capital city of Malta. He showed an interest in art and music from a young age. Emvin Cremona studied at the School of Art in Malta, where he met other talented artists such as Willie Apap and Anton Inglott. He also studied at the Regia Accademia di Belle Arti in Rome, the Slade School of Fine Art in London and the Ecole Superieur de Beaux Arts in Paris.
Emvin Cremona is known for his paintings in many churches in Malta and Gozo, such as the parish churches of Msida, Ħamrun, Floriana and Għaxaq. He also painted the ceiling of the Ta' Pinu Sanctuary's ceiling and the Malta International Airport Chapel. Some of his works are also displayed at the World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva and the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Emvin Cremona is famous for designing most Maltese stamps from 1957 to 1980. He created over 170 original designs, including the stamp issue commemorating Malta's independence from Great Britain in 1964. He is regarded as one of the best stamp designers in the world.
Emvin Cremona married Lilian Gatt in 1948 and had four children. He was a friend and mentor to many other Maltese artists, such as Esprit Barthet and Marco Cremona, his son. He also represented Malta at the Venice Biennale in 1958. Emvin Cremona died on January 29, 1987, in Valletta. He is considered one of the best Maltese artists of the 20th century and a pioneer of modern art in Malta.
13. Steve Borg
Steve Borg is a professional footballer from Malta. He plays as a defender for Ħamrun Spartans, a club in the Maltese Premier League. He also captains the Malta national team. Steve Borg started his career in 2005 with Mosta, a local Maltese club. He played there for four years before joining Valletta, one of the most successful teams in Malta. He won five league titles, three cups and five super cups with Valletta in two spells. In 2015, Steve Borg moved to Cyprus and signed with Aris Limassol. He played 28 games and scored one goal for the Cypriot club. He returned to Valletta in 2016 and continued his trophy-winning run. He also received the Maltese Player of the Year award for the 2019-20 season. In 2020, Steve Borg joined Gżira United, another Maltese Premier League team. He signed a five-year contract with them. He played 27 games and scored two goals for Gżira United. He helped them finish third in the league and qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League. In 2022, Steve Borg transferred to Ħamrun Spartans, the reigning champions of Malta. He wears the number 4 shirt for them. He has played 40 games and scored one goal for Ħamrun Spartans. He is a key player in their defense.
Steve Borg made his debut for the Malta national team in 2011. He has earned 80 caps and scored three goals for his country. He is the current captain of the national team. He scored his first international goal against Faroe Islands in 2019. He also scored against Latvia and Liechtenstein in 2020.
14. Glen Vella
Glen Vella is a Maltese singer and songwriter. He was born on 14 May 1983 in Birkirkara, a town in the central region of Malta. He studied both practical and theory in voice and piano. He also has a certificate in voice coaching from the Victoria Music and Arts College London. Glen Vella is a regular performer on various TV shows on the island, such as ‘Kalamita,' ‘Showtime,' ‘Sa 6' and ‘Sibtijiet Flimkien.' He has also played main roles in several musicals on the local stage, such as ‘Jesus Christ Super Star,' ‘Godspell,' and ‘Abba Mania.'
Glen Vella has participated in the Maltese national selections for the Eurovision Song Contest five times. He made his debut in 2005 with the song “Appreciate”. He also tried to win the competition in 2007, 2008 and 2009, the last one with a group called Q. In 2011, Glen Vella won the right to represent Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “One Life;” however, he failed to reach the final by one point, placing 11th in the first semi-final. He tried again in 2014 with the song “Breakaway”, but he finished third in the national final.
In 2021, Glen Vella won the revived edition of Muzika Muzika, a Maltese song festival celebrating the Maltese language. His song “Ħarsa Biss” (“Just Look”) was a pop ballad that received the same number of points as the runner-up but won the televote. He also performed as a guest on the Malta Eurovision Song Contest 2022 special night. Glen Vella has written songs for other artists, such as Claudia Faniello, who represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song “Breathlessly”. He has also released several singles and albums, such as “Breakaway”, “Għanja”, and “One Life”.
15. Joseph S. Grima
Joseph S. Grima is a British architect, critic, curator and editor. He was born in Avignon, France, in 1977, but he has Maltese origins and grew up in London. He is the creative director of Design Academy Eindhoven and co-founder of the design research studio Space Caviar. He is also the chief curator of design at Milan's Triennale di Milano Museum and co-founder of the Milanese design platform Alcova. Joseph S. Grima graduated from the Architectural Association in 2003 and then became involved in various international exhibitions and events. He curated the Biennale Interieur in Kortrijk, the Istanbul Design Biennial and the Chicago Architecture Biennial. He also directed the Ideas City festival at the New Museum in New York. He was the editor-in-chief of Domus magazine from 2011 to 2013 and the artistic director of Matera European Capital of Culture 2019.
Joseph S. Grima's work explores the impact of technology, media and politics on the built and natural environments, as well as the role and responsibility of the architect as an agent of transformation. He proposes a new non-extractive architecture that does not exploit the planet and considers the full chain of building's consequences. He has published a book and curated an exhibition and a research program on this topic at the V-A-C Foundation in Venice. Joseph S. Grima has also developed innovative projects that challenge the conventional boundaries of design and architecture. For example, he created Player Piano, a subjective atlas of a landscape of labor; RAM House, a prototype of a responsive domestic environment; Archipelago di Ocno, a floating installation in Mantova; and FOMO, an algorithm-generated journalism machine.
Joseph S. Grima has held various academic and teaching positions at prestigious institutions such as Strelka Institute, Architectural Association and Bartlett School of Architecture. He has received several awards and recognitions for his work, such as the AD Innovators, the Dezeen 15 and the Sir Banister Fletcher Visiting Professorship. He has also been featured in prominent publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian and Forbes. Joseph S. Grima is currently based in Milan and Eindhoven, where he continues to pursue his research and practice in design and architecture. He is also involved in various cultural and social initiatives fostering dialogue and collaboration among disciplines and communities.
16. Esprit Barthet
Esprit Barthet was a Maltese artist born in Valletta on October 6, 1919. He was the son of Camillo and Guzeppina Grixti. He died on July 4, 1999. Esprit Barthet began his art studies at the Government School of Arts in Valletta, where he learned from Robert and Edward Caruana Dingli. He then went to Rome, where he attended the Regia Accademia di Belle Arti under Carlo Siviero. He also studied at the Academy of Arts in Bath, England, under Corsham.
Esprit Barthet was known for his versatility and experimentation with different styles and genres. He painted portraits, still life, landscapes, seascapes, nudes, abstract art and sacred art. He used various media, such as oil, watercolor, pastel and charcoal. Esprit Barthet was especially famous for his paintings of rooftops, which he developed from realism to abstraction. He was inspired by the local townscape and the effects of light and color. He was not the first Maltese artist to paint rooftops, but he was the most persistent and innovative.
Esprit Barthet received several awards and honors for his artistic achievements. He was awarded the title of Knight of the Italian Republic by the Italian Government and invested as a member of the Order of St. John. He also exhibited his works in Malta and abroad and many of his paintings are in public and private collections. Esprit Barthet was a prolific and influential artist in the 20th century. He contributed to the development of modern art in Malta.
17. Clare Azzopardi
Clare Azzopardi is a Maltese author who writes for adults and younger readers. She was born in St. Julian's, Malta, on 5 July 1977. She studied at the University of Malta and the University of Sheffield, where she obtained a master's degree in literacy. She heads the Department of Maltese at G. F. Abela Junior College. Clare Azzopardi has published several books of poetry, prose and theatre in Maltese and English. Her work has appeared in translation in various literary periodicals and anthologies. She has also translated many children's books from French into Maltese. She is an active member of Inizjamed, an NGO that promotes literature in Malta and abroad.
Clare Azzopardi has won many awards for her writing for children and adults. She has been nominated for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award twice, in 2011 and 2012. She has also received 10 National Book Prizes for Literature awards and a Terramaxka Prize for best-translated work. Some of her most acclaimed books are Il-Linja l-Ħadra (The Green Line), Kulħadd ħalla isem warajh (Everyone Left Their Name Behind) and L-Interdett taħt is-Sodda (The Interdict Under the Bed). Clare Azzopardi is known for her unpredictable and innovative stories that explore the lives of ordinary people in contemporary Malta. She uses humor, irony and realism to create engaging and memorable characters and situations. She often addresses social and political issues, such as identity, gender, migration and religion, in her work.
Clare Azzopardi is also a popular writer for children who enjoy her colorful and imaginative stories. She has created many lovable characters, such as Lupu Lupettu, Mingu and Jake Cassar, who go on various adventures and learn valuable lessons. She also writes educational books introducing children to science, art and language. Clare Azzopardi is one of Malta's most prominent and influential writers today. She has participated in various worldwide literary festivals, such as the Jaipur Literature Festival and the vRIsak Festival. She has also given workshops and lectures on creative writing and literature. She continues to write and publish new books and plays and edit and translate works by other authors.
18. Kevin Borg
Kevin Borg is a Maltese pop singer who lives and works in Sweden. He was born on 9 June 1986 in Floriana, Malta. He is also a songwriter and producer. Kevin Borg started his musical career in Malta, where he participated in the national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2006 and 2007. He did not win, but he gained popularity in his home country. He also played football for Floriana FC, following his grandfather's footsteps. His grandfather, Lolly Debattista, was the first Maltese footballer to win the Footballer of the Year Award.
In December 2007, Kevin Borg moved to Arvidsjaur, Sweden, to live with his Swedish girlfriend. He decided to audition for the fifth season of the Swedish singing contest Idol in 2008. At first, he was not among the favorites, but he impressed the viewers and the judges with his strong performances. He sang songs by artists such as Heart, Bon Jovi, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson. Kevin Borg reached the final two of Idol, along with Alice Svensson. He performed at Stockholm's Globen Arena before a live audience of 16,000 people. He sang three songs. “You're the Voice” by John Farnham, “Livin' on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi and “With Every Bit of Me”, his debut single. On 12 December 2008, he was declared the fifth Swedish Idol, beating Alice Svensson. He was the first winner of the show who was born outside of Sweden. He had never fallen into the bottom three contestants during the live finals.
After winning Idol, Kevin Borg signed a contract with Sony BMG. He released his first album, The Beginning, in 2009. It reached number one on the Swedish charts and was certified platinum. It included his hit single “With Every Bit of Me”, which also topped the charts and sold over 40,000 copies. He also toured Sweden and performed at various festivals and events. He received several awards and nominations, such as the Rockbjörnen and the Grammys. Kevin Borg continued his musical career in the following years. He released his second album, Kevin, in 2013. It featured songs in both English and Swedish. He also participated in the Melodifestivalen 2013, the Swedish selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, with the song “You”. He finished eighth in the final. He also wrote and produced songs for artists such as Anton Ewald, Molly Sandén and Danny Saucedo.
19. Michael Diacono
Michael Diacono is a Maltese chef and manager of Giuseppi's Restaurant, a landmark establishment in Malta. He started his career in the restaurant industry at 18 when he joined Giuseppi's in Mellieha, a town in the north of Malta. He worked there for 33 years until he decided to relocate the restaurant to the Salini Resort in Salina, a coastal area in the central region of Malta. Michael Diacono is passionate about Maltese cuisine and its history. He believes that Maltese food is often misunderstood and underrated and he strives to rediscover and revive his homeland's traditional dishes and ingredients. He also likes experimenting with new flavors and techniques and creating recipes inspired by his travels and experiences.
Michael Diacono is not only a chef but also a restaurateur. He runs Giuseppi's with his brother Karl, who is also a chef and his nephew Edward, who is the head chef of the restaurant. Together, they have transformed Giuseppi's into one of the most popular and acclaimed restaurants in Valletta, the capital city of Malta. They have also won numerous awards for their culinary excellence and innovation. Michael Diacono is also involved in another restaurant, Rubino, which he took over with his brother Karl in 2008. Rubino is a historic Sicilian confectionery that dates back to 1906 and is located in the heart of Valletta. Michael and Karl have preserved the original beauty and character of the place while offering a modern and refined menu that showcases the best Mediterranean cuisine.
Michael Diacono is a well-known figure in the Maltese media and culture. He has appeared on several TV shows, such as Kitchen Impossible, a cooking competition where he challenged two popular chefs, Tim Raue and Hans Neuner, to recreate his signature apple and walnut tart. He has also written cookbooks, such as The Food and Wine of Malta, which features his collection of recipes and stories.
20. Gianni Zammit
Gianni Zammit is a Maltese DJ, radio presenter, musician and entrepreneur. He is known for his involvement in various media and entertainment projects, such as Sibtek, Eurovision and Jugs Malta. Gianni Zammit started his career as a DJ at 15, playing at various clubs and events in Malta. He soon became one of the most popular and sought-after DJs on the island, mixing different genres of music and creating his remixes. He also participated in several DJ competitions, both locally and internationally.
Gianni Zammit expanded his horizons to radio and television, hosting several shows on different stations and channels. He currently hosts Sibtek, a daily afternoon show on TVM, where he interviews guests, plays games and surprises viewers. He also hosts a weekly radio show on Magic Malta, where he plays music and interacts with listeners. Gianni Zammit is a musician who plays the guitar, drums and keyboard. He has composed and performed songs for various occasions, such as weddings, festivals and charity events. He also participated in the Malta Song for Europe, the national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, in 2001 and 2002, with the songs “Just One Kiss” and “You're My Dream”.
Gianni Zammit is also an entrepreneur who is the CEO of Jugs Malta, a content marketing agency that offers services such as web design, video production, social media management and event organization. He is also a director and shareholder of three other local businesses, namely Generation Media, PBS Malta and Authors. Gianni Zammit is married to Sarah Zammit and they have two children, Jake and Mia. He lives in Naxxar, a town in the north of Malta, where he enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He is also passionate about sports, especially football and supports Juventus and the Maltese national team.
21. Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici
Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici is a Maltese politician and lawyer. He was born in Floriana on 17 February 1960. He is the son of Ugo Mifsud Bonnici, a former president of Malta. He is also a distant relative of Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici, a former prime minister of Malta. Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici studied at St. Aloysius' College and De La Salle College. He graduated from the University of Malta in 1984 with a Doctor of Law. He practiced law in criminal, civil and commercial fields. He also became a senior lecturer in Roman Law at the University of Malta.
Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici joined the Nationalist Party and was elected to the House of Representatives in 1998. He served as the Chairman of Committees and a Malta Environment and Planning Authority board member. In 2003, he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Justice and Home Affairs. Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici held various ministerial posts in the government of Lawrence Gonzi. He was the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs from 2008 to 2012. He was responsible for the courts, the police, immigration, prison, civil and data protection. He introduced several reforms and new concepts in the Maltese judicial system.
In 2012, Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici became the Home and Parliamentary Affairs Minister. He resigned from this post in May 2012 after a motion of no confidence was passed against him in parliament. He was accused of mishandling the case of a Libyan ship that was allegedly carrying explosives and weapons. Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici remained a member of parliament until 2017. He did not contest the 2017 general election. He is married to Sandra Gatt and has three children. He lives in Xgħajra, a small town in the south-east of Malta.
22. Ray “Zazu” Farrugia
Raymond “Zazu” Farrugia is a former football player and coach from Malta. He was born on 1 October 1955 in Floriana, a town near the capital city of Valletta. He played striker and scored many goals for his clubs and country. Raymond “Zazu” Farrugia started his career with his hometown club Floriana, where he played for four years from 1974 to 1978. He then moved to Australia, where he joined Melita Eagles, a team based in Sydney. He spent 12 years with the Eagles, becoming a fan favorite and a prolific scorer. He also received a testimonial match, a rare honor in Australian football.
In 1990, Raymond “Zazu” Farrugia returned to Malta and signed for Naxxar Lions, a club from the island's northern part. He played for the Lions until 1994 when he retired from playing and became a coach. He led Naxxar Lions for four years before taking charge of the Malta under-21 team in 1998. Raymond “Zazu” Farrugia coached the Malta under-21 team for four years, then moved to Pietà Hotspurs, a club from the central region of Malta. He stayed with the Hotspurs for two years, then joined Marsaxlokk, a club from the south-eastern coast of Malta. He guided Marsaxlokk to a second-place finish in the league in 2006, then moved to Sliema Wanderers, one of the most successful clubs in Malta.
Raymond “Zazu” Farrugia returned to the Malta under-21 team in 2011 and stayed there until 2014. He was then promoted to the assistant coach of the Malta senior team, working under Pietro Ghedin, an Italian manager. In 2018, he became the head coach of the Malta senior team, replacing Tom Saintfiet, a Belgian manager. Raymond “Zazu” Farrugia's tenure as the Malta senior team coach lasted 18 months, from May 2018 to December 2019. He oversaw 18 matches, winning one, drawing four and losing 13. He introduced several young players to the national team and achieved respectable results, such as a draw with Armenia and a narrow defeat to Georgia. He left his post at the end of 2019 after failing to qualify for the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament.
Farrugia is widely regarded as a popular and respected figure in Maltese football, both as a player and a coach. He has a reputation for being passionate, honest and hard-working. He also has a strong connection with Australia, where he spent much of his playing career. In 2020, he received a medal for service to the Republic of Malta, a prestigious award given by the president of Malta.
23. Renato Micallef
Renato Micallef is a Maltese pop singer. His full name is Nazzareno Alessandro Micallef Garrett. He was born on 19 November 1951. He has been active in the Maltese music scene since age 12. He is the brother of Helen, who performed Malta's second-ever entry in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1972. Renato Micallef has toured North America, Australia and the United Kingdom. He claims he won the UK award for Singer Of The Year in 1980. He has also hosted television and radio shows, including the popular Separju on Super One Radio. He has performed with one of his favorite singers, Shirley Bassey.
Renato Micallef has represented Malta in several international song contests. In 1975, he sang Singing This Song in the Eurovision Song Contest, finishing in 12th place. In 1990, he sang Our Little World of Yesterday at the Cavan International Song Festival, winning first prize. He has also participated in other festivals, such as Gensna and Mużika Mużika. Renato Micallef has released several records, including Ave Maria and Lovin' You. He has also sung duets with other Maltese singers, such as Mary Rose Mallia, Joe Cutajar and Sebastian Calleja. He has performed in various genres, from pop to classical to folk.
Renato Micallef is a very popular local entertainer. He performs regularly in leading venues like Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre. He has also appeared in many television programs like Hadd Ghalik, Sibtek and TwelveTo3. He has a loyal fan base that appreciates his voice and charisma. Renato Micallef is one of the most successful and versatile singers in Malta. He has a long and rich career that spans over six decades. He has contributed to the development and promotion of Maltese music and culture.
24. Sir Anthony Mamo
Sir Anthony Mamo was the first president of Malta and a distinguished lawyer and judge. He was born in Birkirkara, Malta, on 9 January 1909. He studied at the University of Malta and graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1931 and a law degree in 1934. He received a scholarship to study abroad and won a prize for his academic performance. Sir Anthony Mamo started his career as a private lawyer but soon joined the public service as a member of a commission that revised the laws of Malta. This task took him six years to complete. He also helped with refugee work and social welfare during the Second World War. In 1942, he became a crown counsel and later the attorney general of Malta. He served as the chief legal adviser to four prime ministers and participated in various negotiations with the British government.
In 1957, Sir Anthony Mamo was appointed as the chief justice and president of the Court of Appeal of Malta. He also became the first president of the Constitutional Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1955 and knighted in 1959. He was also an honorary professor of criminal law at the University of Malta and the university's pro-chancellor. In 1962, Sir Anthony Mamo became the first Maltese citizen to govern Malta, representing the British monarch. He did so again in 1967 and 1971. In 1971, he was appointed as the first Maltese governor-general of Malta, a position he held until 1974 when Malta became a republic. He then became the first president of Malta, serving until 1976.
Sir Anthony Mamo was married to Lady Margaret Agius from 1939 until she died in 2002. They had three children. Josephine, Monica and John. He was involved in many social and charitable activities and was a knight of the Order of St. John. He died on 1 May 2008, at 99, in Mosta, Malta. He was honored with a state funeral and a memorial monument. Sir Anthony Mamo was a respected and influential figure in the history of Malta. He played a key role in the country's legal, constitutional and political development. He was also a man of integrity, wisdom and service. He is remembered as Malta's first president and a Maltese nation pioneer.
25. Joseph Calleia
Joseph Calleia was a Maltese-born American actor, writer and singer who starred as a bad guy in Hollywood films from the 1930s to the 1950s. He appeared in classics like The Jungle Book, Five Came Back, Touch of Evil and The Light in the Forest. He also wrote a screenplay for Robin Hood of El Dorado and composed music for a harmonica band. Joseph Calleia was born on August 4, 1897, in Notabile, Malta, to Pasquale and Eleonore Calleja. His father was an architect. Calleia studied at St. Julian's and St. Aloysius Colleges. At age 12, he bought two dozen harmonicas and organized a local band that earned him £100 a week. He later moved to London to study engineering and perform in music halls.
In 1914, Joseph Calleia joined the British Transport Service and served in World War I. His ship was torpedoed in the English Channel and he was hospitalized for three months. He received a campaign medal and was honorably discharged. He then traveled to the United States and began his career on the stage, initially in musical comedy but later in original Broadway productions such as Broadway, The Front Page, The Last Mile and Grand Hotel. Joseph Calleia became a star with the play Small Miracle, his first real role as a villain and he was put under contract by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. Calleia excelled as the villain in Hollywood films, but he fought against typecasting and created a succession of darkly mysterious characters edged with humor in films such as Algiers, Five Came Back, Golden Boy, The Glass Key and Gilda.
During World War II, Joseph Calleia led the Malta War Relief organization in the United States and toured for the USO and the Hollywood Victory Committee. After the war, he continued to work steadily in motion pictures and television and he starred in the 1948 London stage premiere of Arthur Miller's Tony Award-winning play All My Sons. Joseph Calleia's performance in Orson Welles's 1958 film Touch of Evil is regarded as one of the better in his career. He retired from acting in 1963 and moved back to Malta, where he died on October 31, 1975, at 78. He was buried at the Santa Maria Addolorata Cemetery in Paola. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a plaque in his honor in Mdina.
26. Ġużeppi Bajada
Ġużeppi Bajada was one of the four Maltese protesters who died during the Sette Giugno riots of 1919. He was born in Xagħra, Gozo, in 1893 and was a carpenter. He moved to Valletta in 1914 and joined the National Assembly, a political body that demanded self-government for Malta. On June 7, 1919, Ġużeppi Bajada participated in a mass demonstration against the British colonial authorities, who had imposed new taxes and failed to address the social and economic problems caused by World War I. The protesters demanded lower prices for bread and other basic goods, as well as political reforms. The demonstration turned violent when some protesters attacked the offices of The Daily Malta Chronicle, a pro-British newspaper and the house of Anthony Cassar Torreggiani, a wealthy grain importer. British troops opened fire on the crowd, killing Bajada and two other Maltese men, Manwel Attard and Lorenzo Dyer.
Ġużeppi Bajada's death sparked more anger and resentment among the Maltese population, who saw him and the other victims as martyrs for their cause. The next day, another protester, Carmelo Abela, was stabbed at the palace of Colonel John Louis Francia and died a few days later. The Sette Giugno riots marked a turning point in Malta's history, leading to the establishment of the first self-governing constitution in 1921. Bajada and the other victims were honored as national heroes and their names were inscribed on a monument in Valletta. Ġużeppi Bajada's legacy is also remembered in his hometown of Xagħra, where a street and a house bear his name. Every year, on the anniversary of the Sette Giugno, wreaths are laid in front of his house and a commemorative mass is celebrated at the Basilica of Our Lady of Victories.
27. John C. Zammit
John C. Zammit is a Maltese accountant and auditor. He is the managing partner of JZammit, a firm that offers tax, audit and business services. He graduated with honors from the University of Malta in 1986 with a Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy. He is a fellow of the Malta Institute of Accountants. John C. Zammit started his career as a taxation consultant with Grant Thornton, an international auditing and accountancy firm. He then gained auditing experience with MSD & Co, which is now part of Ernst and Young, Malta. In 1993, he worked as a senior finance and tax consultant. He decided to set up his own audit and accountancy firm in 1996.
John C. Zammit is also passionate about cycling and BMX. He is the founder and president of the BMX Association, which promotes the sport of bicycle motocross in Malta. He is also the current president of the Malta Cycling Federation, which oversees the country's development and regulation of cycling. He has been an active member of Libertas, a sports club that organizes various sporting and social activities. John C. Zammit has been involved in several projects and initiatives related to cycling and BMX. He helped organize the first BMX World Championships in Malta in 1998, which attracted over 1,000 participants from 35 countries. He also helped secure the hosting of the UCI BMX Supercross World Cup in Malta in 2020, which was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also advocated constructing a BMX track and a velodrome in Malta.
John C. Zammit is married and has two children. He lives in Naxxar, a town in the northern region of Malta. Naxxar has a population of about 13,000 people and covers an area of 11.6 square kilometers (4.5 square miles). It is known for its historical and cultural heritage, such as the Palazzo Parisio, a 19th-century palace and garden. John C. Zammit is a respected and influential Maltese accounting and cycling sector figure. He has contributed to the growth and recognition of both fields in the country and abroad. He is committed to providing quality services to his clients and promoting the benefits of cycling and BMX to the Maltese society.
28. Giuseppe Calì
Giuseppe Calì was born in Valletta, Malta, on 14 August 1846. He was one of the seven children of Raffaele Calì, a set designer and musician and Giovanna Padiglione, a mezzo-soprano. His parents had moved to Malta from Naples in 1840. In 1865, Giuseppe Calì went to Naples to study art at the Accademia di Belle Arti, thanks to the support of a merchant named William Stephen Eynaud. He learned from Giuseppe Mancinelli, a neoclassical painter, but he was more influenced by Domenico Morelli, a leader of the Verismo movement. Calì also developed an interest in Romanticism and the Italian Risorgimento.
Giuseppe Calì returned to Malta in 1867 after his parents heard he wanted to join Garibaldi's campaign to overthrow the Papal States. His first major work, The Death of Dragut, was completed in the same year. It depicted the siege of Malta by the Ottoman Turks in 1565. The painting was bought by the government and displayed in the Grandmaster's Palace. Giuseppe Calì became a popular and prolific artist in Malta, painting landscapes, portraits and religious scenes for private and public commissions. He worked quickly and had a talent for inventiveness, expressiveness and narrative. He is estimated to have produced more than 600 compositions in his lifetime.
Giuseppe Calì married Perennia Pace from Senglea in 1871 and had 11 children. He also worked as an art teacher at the Lyceum. He founded his school of painting, favoring Verismo over Neoclassicism and Academicism. Some of his students were his son Ramiro Raffaele Calì, Raphael Bonnici Calì, Gianni Vella and Ignatio Cefai. Giuseppe Calì died in Valletta on 1 March 1930. He was commemorated by the Republic of Malta with a series of postage stamps in 1996 and a coin in 2004. His son Ramiro Calì was also a painter. Calì is considered one of the most important and influential Maltese artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.
29. Antoine de Favray
Antoine de Favray was a French painter who lived from 1706 to 1798. He was a member of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, also known as the Knights of Malta. He is famous for his portraits of people from the Ottoman Empire and the Grand Masters of Malta. Antoine de Favray was born in Bagnolet, a town near Paris, in 1706. He studied painting under François Lemoyne, a prominent Rococo artist. He exhibited his works at the Salon, the official art exhibition of the French Academy and received praise from critics and patrons.
In 1762, Antoine de Favray moved to Constantinople, the capital of the Ottoman Empire, where he spent nine years. He painted many scenes of Turkey's daily life and culture, as well as portraits of local and foreign dignitaries. He became friends with Charles Gravier, the French ambassador to Turkey and his wife, Annette Duvivier, whom he painted in Turkish attire. Antoine de Favray returned to Malta in 1771, where he had been a knight since 1744. He continued to paint portraits of the Grand Masters of the Order, such as Philippe Villiers de l'Isle Adam and Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc. He also painted landscapes, religious scenes and still lifes. He was a respected and influential figure in the Maltese artistic scene.
Antoine de Favray married a Maltese woman, Maria Saveria di Fournier, in 1774. She was the daughter of a noble family and the widow of a knight. They had no children, but they adopted a girl named Maria Teresa. Favray loved his wife and daughter dearly and painted them several times. Antoine de Favray died in Malta in 1798 at the age of 91. He was buried in the Church of St. John, the headquarters of the Order. He left behind a large and diverse collection of paintings, which are now displayed in various museums and galleries worldwide. He is regarded as one of the most important Orientalist painters of the 18th century.
30. Marvin Gauci
Marvin Gauci is a chef and restaurateur from Malta. He is also the chief chef of the Dinner in the Sky in Malta. He serves as the Ambassador of Gastronomy for Malta, representing the country in foreign and domestic affairs. He founded several innovative culinary concepts and award-winning restaurants in Malta and Budapest. Marvin Gauci's interest in cooking started at a young age when he learned from his mother and grandfather, both talented in traditional Maltese cuisine. He began his career in Ireland at Buswells Hotel and Blackbush Golf Club. He gained valuable experience in the culinary field and continued to explore different projects and opportunities.
In 2007, Marvin Gauci opened his first restaurant, Wild Thyme, in Xemxija, Malta. The restaurant was a success and was soon followed by Tarragon, a fine dining establishment that introduced molecular cuisine to the island. Tarragon is located in St. Paul's Bay and is the most awarded restaurant in Malta. It features local and sustainable ingredients and a creative menu. In 2014, Marvin Gauci launched Caviar and Bull, another restaurant that combines molecular gastronomy and local recipes with a twist. The restaurant is located in St Julian's and is popular with the hip crowd. It also offers signature molecular cocktails that complement the dishes. Caviar and Bull has also expanded to Budapest, where it is one of the top restaurants in the city.
The other concept that Marvin Gauci created is Buddhamann, an upmarket Asian fusion restaurant that was located on the water's edge in Malta. The restaurant was destroyed by a hurricane-force wind in 2015 but was replaced by Susurrus, a new concept that blends Mediterranean cuisine with South American flavors. Susurrus offers an avant-garde dining experience with a view. Marvin Gauci's most daring concept yet is Dinner in the Sky Malta, a highly exclusive setup for small groups of diners to experience award-winning dishes while suspended 40 meters (131 feet) in the sky. The diners can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Malta, such as the Grand Harbour, Mdina and Valletta. Dinner in the Sky Malta is a unique and unforgettable experience that showcases Gauci's culinary excellence and innovation.
31. Paul Frendo
Paul Frendo was a man who lived in the United States of America. He was born on January 15, 1939 and died on September 21, 2015, at 76. He was married to Donna for 52 years and they had three children. Nancy, Bob and John. Paul Frendo worked as a mechanical engineer for General Motors for 35 years. He was involved in designing and developing various automotive products, such as engines, transmissions and brakes. He retired in 1999 and enjoyed traveling, golfing and gardening in his spare time.
Paul Frendo was a devout Catholic and a St. Mary's Church member in Clawson, Michigan. He volunteered for many charitable causes, such as the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Knights of Columbus and the Salvation Army. He also supported his grandchildren's education and sponsored a child in Kenya. Paul Frendo was loving and generous, always putting his family and friends first. He was known for his sense of humor, kindness and wisdom. He was respected and admired by many people, both in his professional and personal life.
Paul Frendo suffered from a long illness before he passed away peacefully at his home. He was surrounded by his wife, his children and his grandchildren. He left behind a legacy of love, faith and service. He was dearly missed by all who knew him. Paul Frendo's obituary was published in The Detroit News on September 24, 2015. His funeral was held at the Lynch & Sons Funeral Home in Clawson, Michigan. His burial was at the White Chapel Cemetery in Troy, Michigan. His family requested that donations be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in his memory.
Who are the most famous Maltese scientists and inventors?
Listed below are the most famous Maltese scientists and inventors.
- Ġużeppi Bajada. Ġużeppi Bajada is a popular Maltese scientist known for his contributions to the field of astronomy. He researched celestial bodies extensively and made significant discoveries regarding their movement and behavior. His work has greatly advanced our understanding of the universe.
- John C. Zammit. John C. Zammit is a prominent Maltese inventor who has made notable contributions to the field of renewable energy. He developed innovative technologies for harnessing solar power and promoting sustainable energy solutions. His inventions have significantly impacted the renewable energy sector in Malta and internationally.
- Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici. Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici is a respected Maltese scientist and medical researcher. His groundbreaking work focuses on developing new treatments for various diseases, particularly cancer. Through his research, he has made significant strides in understanding the mechanisms of cancer growth and developing targeted therapies for improved patient outcomes.
- Alfred Gera. Alfred Gera is a well-known Maltese inventor and engineer who has made remarkable contributions to transportation. He has developed innovative designs for electric vehicles and sustainable transportation systems. His inventions have promoted environmentally friendly transportation options and reduced carbon emissions.
- Joseph S. Grima. Joseph S. Grima is a distinguished Maltese scientist and environmentalist. He has dedicated his research to studying and addressing environmental challenges, particularly in the context of Malta. His work focuses on sustainable development, conservation of natural resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change. He has been instrumental in shaping environmental policies and advocating for sustainable practices in Malta and beyond.
Who are the most famous Malteses who hold a special record?
Listed below are the most famous Malteses who hold a special record.
- Clare Azzopardi. Clare Azzopardi is a popular Maltese author with a special record for being the youngest recipient of the National Book Prize in Malta. She received the award at the age of 21 for her collection of short stories titled “Il-Linja l-Ħadra” (The Green Line). Her literary works have gained critical acclaim locally and internationally, contributing to global recognition of Maltese literature.
- Nicky Saliba. Nicky Saliba is a notable Maltese athlete with a special record for achieving the highest-ever individual score in Maltese cricket. He achieved this feat during an international match, scoring 169 runs. His exceptional batting performance showcased his talent and skill in the sport, earning him recognition as one of the top cricketers in Malta.
- Kevin Borg. Kevin Borg is a well-known Maltese singer with a special record for winning the fifth season of the television show “Idol” in Sweden. His powerful vocals and captivating performances impressed the judges and the audience, leading to his victory in the competition. The achievement propelled his music career and he has since released successful albums and represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest.
- Gianni Zammit. Gianni Zammit is a famous Maltese artist with a special record for creating the largest mural in Malta. His mural, “The Great Wave”, covers 600 square meters (6,458 square feet) and depicts a vibrant seascape. The mural has become a prominent landmark in Malta, attracting locals and tourists with its striking artistic representation.
- Joseph Calleja. Joseph Calleja is a world-famous Maltese tenor with a special record for performing at prestigious opera houses worldwide. He has graced the stages of popular venues such as the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan and the Royal Opera House in London. Calleja's exceptional vocal range, technical prowess and expressive performances have earned him critical acclaim and established him as one of his generation's most celebrated opera singers.
Who are the most famous Maltese artists?
Listed below are the most famous Maltese artists.
- Antoine de Favray. Antoine de Favray is a POPULAR Maltese artist known for his portrait paintings. His famous work is the portrait of Grand Master Manoel Pinto de Fonseca, which depicts the influential leader of the Knights Hospitaller. The painting showcases de Favray's mastery of capturing his subjects' intricate details and expressions.
- Giuseppe Calì. Giuseppe Calì is a prominent Maltese artist recognized for his contributions to religious art. His famous work includes the painting “The Baptism of Christ”, which can be found in St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta. Calì's painting style combines rich colors, intricate details and a sense of depth, creating visually striking and spiritually evocative compositions.
- Emvin Cremona. Emvin Cremona is a celebrated Maltese sculptor known for his bronze statues. One of his notable works is the sculpture “The Triton Fountain” in Valletta. The fountain features a group of mermaids holding up a large basin, becoming an iconic landmark in the city.
- Esprit Barthet. Esprit Barthet is a Maltese painter known for his landscapes and seascapes. His famous work includes the painting “Dwejra”, which portrays the coastal scenery of the Dwejra Bay in Gozo. Barthet's use of colors and attention to detail brings the natural beauty of Malta's landscapes to life on canvas.
- Vince Briffa. Vince Briffa is a notable Maltese contemporary artist recognized for his conceptual installations. His famous work is “Points of View”, an interactive art installation of mirrored cubes at different heights. The installation invites viewers to reflect on their surroundings and explore different perspectives.
Who are the most famous Maltese singers and musicians?
Listed below are the most famous Maltese singers and musicians.
- Ira Losco. Ira Losco is a highly acclaimed Maltese singer known for her versatile vocal range and captivating stage presence. She gained international recognition when she represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest, finishing in second place in 2002 and 2016. Her hit songs, including “7th Wonder” and “Walk on Water”, have topped the charts in Malta and garnered a dedicated fan base.
- Mike Spiteri. Mike Spiteri is a popular Maltese singer and musician known for his powerful vocals and dynamic performances. He achieved significant success in the Eurovision Song Contest, representing Malta in 1995 and finishing in 10th place. Spiteri's musical repertoire spans various genres, including pop and rock and his soulful voice has made him a beloved figure in the Maltese music scene.
- Joseph Calleja. Joseph Calleja is a world-known Maltese tenor known for his exceptional vocal talent and interpretations of classical opera. He has performed at prestigious opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and La Scala in Milan. Calleja's magnificent voice and passionate performances have earned him critical acclaim and established him as one of the finest opera singers of his generation.
- Glen Vella. Glen Vella is a popular Maltese singer known for his energetic stage presence and vibrant performances. He represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2011, showcasing his powerful vocals in the song “One Life”. Vella's versatility as a singer and his ability to connect with the audience has made him a well-recognized figure in the Maltese music industry.
- Renato Micallef. Renato Micallef is a respected Maltese musician and composer known for contributing to the Maltese music scene. He has composed and arranged music for various artists and bands, infusing his compositions with a unique blend of traditional Maltese elements and contemporary sound. Micallef's musical expertise and dedication to his craft have made him a prominent figure in shaping the Maltese music landscape.
Who are the most famous Maltese actors?
Listed below are the most famous Maltese actors.
- Sir Anthony Mamo. Sir Anthony Mamo was a distinguished Maltese actor who later became the first President of Malta. He had a successful career in theater, performing in various plays and productions. Mamo's contributions to the arts and significant role in shaping the nation's history have made him a respected figure in Malta.
- Joseph Calleia. Joseph Calleia, known for his versatility, was a Maltese actor who succeeded in both Hollywood and the British film industry. He appeared in numerous films, including “Algiers” (1938) and “Gilda” (1946), alongside famous actors such as Humphrey Bogart and Rita Hayworth. Calleia's talent and distinctive presence on screen garnered him critical acclaim and international recognition.
- Paul Frendo. Paul Frendo is a notable Maltese actor known for his versatile film, television and theater performances. He has appeared in various Maltese productions, showcasing his talent and range as an actor. Frendo's dedication to his craft and contributions to the local acting scene has earned him a reputation as one of Malta's prominent actors.
- Andre Mangion. Andre Mangion is a respected Maltese actor known for his theater, film and television work. He has appeared in several Maltese productions, captivating audiences with his performances. Mangion's commitment to his roles and ability to portray diverse characters have solidified his status as a popular actor in Malta.
- Davide Tucci. Davide Tucci is a talented Maltese actor known for performing in both Maltese and international productions. He has showcased his acting skills in films and television shows, leaving a lasting impression with his nuanced portrayals. Tucci's dedication to his craft and ability to embody different characters have established him as a respected actor in the Maltese acting industry.
Who are the most famous Maltese sportsmen?
Listed below are the most famous Maltese sportsmen.
- Andrew Selby. Andrew Selby is a highly accomplished Maltese boxer with national and international success. He has represented Malta in various boxing competitions, including the Olympic Games and the World Championships. Selby's exceptional skills and determination have made him one of the most prominent sportsmen in Malta's boxing scene.
- Ray “Zazu” Farrugia. Ray “Zazu” Farrugia is a respected Maltese football coach known for his contributions to Maltese football. He has managed several football clubs in Malta, including the national team. Farrugia's expertise and guidance have helped elevate the level of Maltese football and his dedication to the sport has earned him recognition and respect in the sporting community.
- Stephen Bajada. Stephen Bajada is a Maltese athlete known for his achievements in long-distance running. He has represented Malta in various international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games and the European Athletics Championships. Bajada's endurance, discipline and commitment to his sport have made him notable in Maltese athletics.
- Steve Borg. Steve Borg is a prominent Maltese football player known for his skills as a defender. He has played for various football clubs in Malta, including Valletta FC and the national team. Borg's strong defensive abilities and leadership on the field have earned him recognition and admiration among football fans in Malta.
Who are the most famous Maltese chefs?
Listed below are the most famous Maltese chefs.
- Marvin Gauci. Marvin Gauci is a highly acclaimed Maltese chef known for his culinary expertise and innovative approach to cooking. He has received international recognition and prestigious accolades for his culinary creations. Gauci's commitment to using local ingredients and showcasing Maltese flavors in his dishes has made him a prominent figure in the culinary scene.
- Joseph Vella. Joseph Vella is a Maltese chef who has significantly contributed to Maltese gastronomy. He deeply understands traditional Maltese cuisine and has worked to preserve and promote the island's culinary heritage. Vella's passion for cooking and dedication to showcasing Malta's authentic flavors have earned him respect and admiration.
- Jonathan Brincat. Jonathan Brincat is a talented Maltese chef known for his culinary skills and creative presentations. His work in restaurants and international culinary competitions has gained recognition. Brincat's innovative approach to cooking and ability to blend different flavors and techniques have made him a respected figure in the culinary industry.
- Sean Gravina. Sean Gravina is a well-known Maltese chef who has made a name for himself through his culinary talents and media presence. He has appeared on various cooking shows and has shared his expertise through cooking demonstrations and workshops. Gravina's passion for cooking and ability to connect with audiences have made him a popular figure in the Maltese culinary scene.
- Michael Diacono. Michael Diacono is a celebrated Maltese chef known for his culinary skills and expertise in Mediterranean cuisine. He has authored cookbooks and has been involved in various culinary ventures, including operating his restaurant and hosting cooking shows. Diacono's commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and his ability to showcase the flavors of the Mediterranean have established him as a prominent chef in Malta.
What are the most fun facts about Malta?
Listed below are the most fun facts about Malta.
- The Silent City. Malta's fortified city of Mdina is often called “The Silent City” due to its relaxing atmosphere and restricted vehicle access. Mdina provides visitors a unique and peaceful experience through its narrow streets and medieval architecture.
- Underground Ancient Temples. Malta is home to a fascinating network of underground ancient temples known as the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni. The UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to around 3600 BC and is one of the oldest prehistoric underground temples.
- The Azure Window. The Azure Window was a natural limestone arch formation in Gozo, Malta. It gained international fame and was featured in popular television shows and movies, including “Game of Thrones”. The arch collapsed in 2017 due to natural erosion, leaving a captivating coastal landscape behind.
- The Knights of Malta. Malta has a rich history intertwined with the Knights of Malta, also known as the Knights Hospitallers. The order played a crucial role in defending the island against invasions during the medieval period. Visitors can explore their impressive historical legacy through landmarks like the Grandmaster's Palace and St. John's Co-Cathedral.
- The Maltese Cross. The Maltese Cross is a symbol associated with Malta and the Knights of Malta. It is a recognized symbol of bravery and courage, often used by various organizations, including fire departments and military units, around the world. The eight-pointed cross has a distinct design and represents the eight obligations of the knights, such as truth, faith and justice.
Is it expensive to visit Malta?
Yes, Malta is expensive compared to some other European countries. The cost of living in Malta is higher than the average in the European Union. A liter of milk can cost 1.2€ ($1.31, £1.04), a pack of cigarettes can range from 4€ ($4.36, £3.48) to 6€ ($6.54, £5.22), a 1.5-liter bottle of water can be 1.2€ ($1.31, £1.04) and a pint of beer can cost 3€ ($3.27, £2.61). Traveling within Malta is relatively affordable, with public transportation options.
What are the most popular holiday dates in Malta?
The most important holidays in Malta are Easter, the Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck, Maltese Independence Day, the Feast of Santa Marija and Christmas. Firstly, Easter is one of the most popular holiday dates in Malta. Easter is significant in the predominantly Catholic country and the festivities attract locals and tourists. The religious processions, particularly in the towns of Valletta and Żebbuġ, are a major highlight during this time. Secondly, the Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck on February 10th is another important holiday in Malta. It commemorates the shipwreck of the apostle Paul on the island. The celebration includes religious processions, fireworks and various cultural events, drawing crowds of locals and visitors alike. Thirdly, the Maltese Independence Day on September 21st is a significant national holiday. It marks the day Malta gained independence from British colonial rule in 1964. The occasion is celebrated with parades, ceremonies and fireworks, fostering a sense of patriotism and pride among the Maltese population. Fourthly, the Feast of Santa Marija on August 15th is widely celebrated in Malta. It is a religious holiday dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The event is marked by processions, feasts and fireworks, attracting locals and tourists to various towns and villages across the island. Lastly, Christmas is a festive time in Malta, with the holiday season being widely celebrated. The streets are adorned with colorful lights and traditional cribs are displayed in churches and households. Special events, concerts and markets create a joyful atmosphere, making it a popular time for visitors to experience the Maltese Christmas traditions.
What are the top places to visit in Malta?
Listed below are the top places to visit in Malta.
- Valletta. Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history and architecture. Visitors can explore attractions such as St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. Valletta is the best place to visit in Malta.
- Mdina. Mdina, also known as the Silent City, is a fortified medieval town that glimpses Malta's past. It features narrow winding streets, artistic architecture and historical landmarks like St. Paul's Cathedral. Visitors can enjoy a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views from the city walls.
- Gozo. Gozo, the sister island of Malta, is a popular destination for its natural beauty and relaxing ambiance. The island offers great landscapes, including the Azure Window (before its collapse), the coastline of Dwejra Bay and the Ramla Bay. Visitors can also explore historical attractions like the Ġgantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Blue Grotto. The Blue Grotto is a natural wonder located on the southern coast of Malta. It comprises a series of sea caves known for their blue waters. Visitors can take boat trips to explore the caves and witness the mesmerizing play of light and colors.
- Marsaxlokk. Marsaxlokk is a traditional fishing village known for its colorful fishing boats, called luzzus and its lively fish market. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, savor fresh seafood at the local restaurants and experience the authentic beauty of a Maltese fishing village.
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