Mqabba: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Malta

• HelloBongu
  [Bon-goo]
• GoodbyeĊaw
  [Chow]
• YesIva
  [Ee-va]
• NoLe
  [Leh]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [Yeck yoj-bok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [Grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzi
  [Sku-zee]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [Kif int?]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [Ta-yeb. Oo int?]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [T-it-kel-lem bl-Ingleez]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [Ma neef-heem-sh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq nara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [Nishtek nara l-menyoo, yeck yoj-bok]
• I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [Ma nee-e-kolsh la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [Sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq inħallas, jekk jogħġbok
  [Nishtek in-hal-las, yeck yoj-bok]

• Help!Għajni!
  [Ayni]
• Go away!Mur lejnhekk!
  [Mur ley-nek]
• Call the Police!Ċempel l-Pulizija!
  [Chem-pel l-Poo-litz-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ċempel tabib!
  [Chem-pel ta-beeb]
• I'm lostInkejt
  [In-ket]
• I'm illJien maħdum
  [Yeen ma-dum]

• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inħares...
  [Nishtek in-ha-res]
• I'm just lookingJien biss qed inara
  [Yeen biss k-ed in-ara]
• How much is it?Kemm jiswew?
  [Kemm yis-weo]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq sħiħ
  [Dan hoo-wa wees-shi-h]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' tniżżel il-prezz?
  [Tis-ta tneez-zel il-prez]

• What time is it?X'ħin huwa?
  [Shin hoo-wa]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [Hoo-wa l-ewel see-eha]
• Half past (10)Nofsinhar
  [Nof-sin-har]
• MorningFilgħodu
  [Fil-god-oo]
• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
  [Wa-ra-nof-sin-har]
• EveningFilgħaxija
  [Fil-ga-hee-ya]
• YesterdayIlbieraħ
  [Il-bee-er-eye]
• TodayIllum
  [Il-lum]
• TomorrowGħada
  [A-da]
• 1Wieħed
  [Wee-hed]
• 2Tnejn
  [Tin-ayn]
• 3Tliet
  [Tleet]
• 4Erba'
  [Er-ba]
• 5Ħamsa
  [Ham-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [Sit-ta]
• 7Sebba'
  [Seb-ba]
• 8Tmienja
  [Tmi-en-ya]
• 9Disgħa
  [Dis-gha]
• 10Għaxra
  [A-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [Feyn hemm]
• What's the address?X'jadressa?
  [Shi-a-dress-a]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' turi li (fuq il-mappa)?
  [Tis-ta toor-ee lee (fuq il-map-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta jasal il-ġurnata tiegħi?
  [Met-a ya-sal il-jur-na-ta tie-ee]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal...)
  [Bil-yet (al)]

Mqabba, located in the southern region of Malta, is home to various prehistoric sites, including the renowned Ta' Hagrat Temple. These ancient structures date back to the Neolithic period, around 3600-3200 BCE, and are considered some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. The megalithic temples provide a glimpse into the early human settlements and their sophisticated architectural skills.

During the Phoenician and later Roman periods, Mqabba became an important settlement due to its strategic location. The Phoenicians, who arrived around 800 BCE, and the Romans, who took control in 218 BCE, left behind numerous artifacts, including pottery and inscriptions. These remnants highlight Mqabba’s role in trade and cultural exchange across the Mediterranean.

In the medieval period, Mqabba was part of the fiefdoms established by the Normans after their conquest of Malta in 1091. The village's medieval church, dedicated to St. Basil, was one of the earliest Christian structures in the area. This era saw the development of Mqabba as a rural community centered around agriculture and local craftsmanship.

The arrival of the Knights of St. John in 1530 marked a significant era for Mqabba. The Knights fortified the region and improved its infrastructure. The construction of the Church of the Assumption in the 17th century is a testament to this period. This Baroque-style church remains a central landmark in Mqabba, showcasing exquisite architectural details and religious art.

Mqabba played a crucial role during World War II, particularly due to its proximity to the RAF Luqa airfield. The village was heavily bombarded, leading to significant destruction. Despite this, the resilience of the Mqabbin people shone through as they rebuilt their homes and community. Several war memorials and preserved air-raid shelters in Mqabba stand as a tribute to this tumultuous period.

Today, Mqabba is a vibrant village that seamlessly blends its rich history with contemporary life. Known for its limestone quarries, Mqabba has contributed significantly to Malta’s construction industry. The village also hosts spectacular festas, particularly the Feast of the Assumption, celebrated with elaborate fireworks, processions, and cultural events. These festivities offer an authentic glimpse into the local traditions and communal spirit of Mqabba.

Mqabba is located in the southern part of Malta, approximately 8 kilometers from the capital, Valletta. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), which is just a short 10-minute drive from Mqabba. From the airport, you can either take a taxi or use public transportation to reach Mqabba. The bus services operated by Malta Public Transport provide regular connections to Mqabba from various parts of the island.

Mqabba is a small village, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For traveling to other parts of Malta, the public bus service is efficient and affordable. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Renting a car is another option for those who prefer more flexibility, but be mindful of narrow streets and limited parking in some areas.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. ATMs are available throughout Mqabba, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed.

Mqabba is generally a safe destination for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Mqabba, but it is always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112, the EU-wide emergency number, for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The nearest hospital with emergency services is Mater Dei Hospital, located about 15 minutes away by car. Pharmacies are available in Mqabba for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or a handshake. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Maltese dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Mqabba like a local, visit the village square where you can find local cafes and bakeries offering traditional Maltese pastries. Engage with locals at the Mqabba Band Club, which often hosts community events and celebrations. Don’t miss the annual village festa dedicated to St. Mary, featuring vibrant processions, fireworks, and traditional music. For a unique experience, explore the nearby Għar Dalam Cave and Museum, which offers insights into Malta's prehistoric past.