Maltese Carnival, an explosion of colour and joy - Carnival Spirit Malta!
It is true that most of the time, the plan at home does not match the one at the fair. Just like, at least for us, home plans do not always coincide with vacation plans. We went to Malta, one of the smallest states in the world (316 square kilometres), for the purpose of a family reunion. We had objectives to visit, places to see, and crowded plans in the two days we had at our disposal.
Besides, Carnival, one of the oldest traditions. The Mediterranean charm, the British coughs of the island, and the baroque architecture's details, accentuated by the phosphorescent colours of the allegorical chariots that stubbornly crossed the narrow streets in vibrant rhythms, made our stay in Valletta.
The decision turned out to be an inspired one, compensating for the fatigue of a 7-hour flight in Warsaw, with a mood of big days. from 14:00 to Monday at 7:00, the only option I found in the shower was: Bucharest - Warsaw (2 hours) and Warsaw-Malta (3 hours), with a stopover of 7 hours in Warsaw Airport We did not consider it necessary to stay for 3-4 hours, but we did not leave the airport, as it was night, Costa not only hosted us but also offered us a coffee to keep us in shape.)
Today's article will be dedicated exclusively to the Maltese Carnival, an event with a history of more than five centuries, dating from the time of the Knights of St. John, which is committed every year before Lent to gather young and old, young and old. Locals and tourists. Art, creativity, craftsmanship and entertainment go hand in hand for five days in Valletta, Nadur or Gozo, during unique events. Traditional and modern, satirical and grotesque, organized or improvised, with a funny or macabre air, Il Karnival ta Malta can't help but conquer you. If the John Knights consisted of various tournaments and contests in which they competed for rewards, the ships being decorated and displayed in all their glory, today the allegorical chariots parade to the applause of the enthusiastic crowd. Parata, a re-enactment of the 16th-century struggle of the Maltese population and the Knights against rival Ottoman forces besieging Malta during the 1565 attack, taken quite seriously by the Maltese people eagerly awaiting the spectacle, became in the days modern less a dramatic event and more a commemorative one. Children's bands usually perform the traditional dance/battle between the two opposing forces.
Undoubtedly, floats are the real attraction during the carnival. Huge cardboard and many other materials figures painted in an explosion of bright colours parade through the important streets. I start from Floriana, on the outskirts of the capital. That's where the last preparations take place. If you are not Maltese, you definitely need a local to help you discover the characters.
If you get tired, don't worry. There are cafes and terraces everywhere. With a retro or chic air, all invite lovers of Maltese delicacies to cross their threshold with intimate decor. A few colourful chairs in front of a cafe without a tie or comfortable sofas in a pleasant or elegant environment do not hinder your relaxation, on the contrary. Coffee, too good and beer, cold. The Mediterranean Sea, of a blue, that rivals the azure of the clear sky, lurks at the end of the sloping streets. The place is perfect, but the rhythmic music will not give too much respite. Festive atmosphere, with joy and humour, moments lived at maximum intensity.
If you plan a holiday in Malta in February, it is a shame to miss the carnival. Dedicate at least one day to him! It will attract you like a magnet. You will wake up singing or dancing to dizzying rhythms. We wish you inspired vacations! The rest, details…
