Paola: The Cultural Heart of Malta

• HelloMerħba
  [mer-h-ba]
• GoodbyeSaħħa
  [sa-ha]
• YesIva
  [ee-va]
• NoLe
  [leh]
• Please/You're welcomeJekk jogħġbok
  [yek-joh-guh-bok]
• Thank youGrazzi
  [grat-see]
• Excuse me/SorrySkuzi
  [skoo-zee]
• How are you?Kif int?
  [keef int]
• Fine. And you?Tajjeb. U int?
  [ta-yeb. oo int]
• Do you speak English?Titkellem bl-Ingliż?
  [tit-ke-lem bling-lees]
• I don't understandMa nifhimx
  [ma neef-heemsh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNixtieq inara l-menu, jekk jogħġbok
  [nishtek in-ara l-may-noo, yek-joh-guh-bok]
• I don't eat meatMa niekolx laħam
  [ma nee-e-kolsh la-ham]
• Cheers!Saħħa!
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNixtieq nippruvajt, jekk jogħġbok
  [nishtek nip-proo-vait, yek-joh-guh-bok]

• Help!Għajni!
  [ay-nee]
• Go away!Mur!
  [moor]
• Call the Police!Ibgħat il-Pulizija!
  [ib-gat il-poo-lee-zee-ya]
• Call a doctor!Ibqajja' tabib!
  [ib-ai-ya tah-beeb]
• I'm lostNinsab f'gwerra
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• I'm illNixtieq tabib
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• I'd like to buy...Nixtieq inixtri...
  [nishtek in-ishtree]
• I'm just lookingQed nara biss
  [kwed nara biss]
• How much is it?Kemm huwa?
  [kem hoo-wa]
• That's too expensiveDan huwa wisq sħiħ
  [dan hoo-wa wees-sh sh-hee]
• Can you lower the price?Tista' tniżżel il-prezz?
  [tis-ta tnee-zzel il-prez]

• What time is it?Xi ħin hu?
  [she heen hoo]
• It's one o'clockHuwa l-ewwel siegħa
  [hoo-wa l-ew-wel see-eha]
• Half past (10)Noqsan (10)
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• MorningFilgħodu
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• AfternoonWaranofsinhar
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• EveningFlimkien
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• YesterdayIlbieraħ
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• TodayIllum
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• TomorrowGħada
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• 5Ħamsa
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• 8Tmienja
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• 9Disgħa
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• 10Għaxra
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• Where's a/the...?Fejn hemm...
  [feyn hemm]
• What's the address?X'inhu l-indirizz?
  [sheen-hoo l-in-dee-reetz]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Tista' tgħanni (fuq il-mappa)?
  [tis-ta tan-nee fooq il-mappa]
• When's the next (bus)?Meta jmiss?
  [me-ta y-miss]
• A ticket (to ....)Biljett (għal ....)
  [bil-yet tal]

Paola, known in Maltese as Raħal Ġdid, which translates to 'New Town,' was founded in the 17th century by Grand Master Antoine de Paule of the Order of St. John. Established as a new settlement to relieve population pressures on the capital city of Valletta, Paola began as a small village but quickly grew due to its strategic location and fertile lands.

One of the most significant archaeological sites in Malta, the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, is located in Paola. Discovered in 1902, this underground prehistoric burial site dates back to around 4000 BCE. The Hypogeum is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient cultures that once inhabited the Maltese islands.

During the British colonial period, Paola became closely linked with the Malta Dockyard. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the dockyard was a major employer in the area and facilitated the town’s rapid urbanization. This industrial boom brought significant economic growth, transforming Paola into a bustling hub.

Paola, like much of Malta, was heavily affected by World War II. To protect its residents from the frequent air raids, an extensive network of underground shelters was constructed. The Paola Air Raid Shelter is one of the largest and best-preserved examples, offering a poignant reminder of the island's strategic importance and the resilience of its people during the war.

In the decades following World War II, Paola underwent significant modernization. The construction of new residential areas, schools, and community centers reflected the town’s growth and development. This period also saw the establishment of the Church of Christ the King, an iconic landmark that serves as the town’s main parish church.

Today, Paola is a vibrant town that balances its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. The town hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the annual feast of Christ the King. Paola is also home to a diverse community, contributing to its lively atmosphere and making it a fascinating destination for visitors seeking to explore Malta's historical and cultural tapestry.

Paola is located in the southeastern part of Malta, within the Grand Harbour area. The nearest international airport is Malta International Airport (MLA), which is approximately 5 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or public bus (routes X1, X2, X3, X4) directly to Paola. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes by car or 30-40 minutes by bus.

Paola is well-connected by Malta's efficient public transport system. Buses are the most common mode of transportation, with frequent services to and from Valletta, Sliema, and other major towns. Taxis and rideshare services are readily available and can be hailed or booked via mobile apps. For a more local experience, you can rent a bicycle or walk, as many attractions are within easy reach. Paola also has a train station that serves the local area.

The official currency in Malta is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and you can find them throughout Paola. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets where card payments might not be accepted.

Paola is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other place, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Specific high-crime areas targeting tourists are not prevalent in Paola, but it's always good to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Paola has a local police station and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Paola where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

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 give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Bonġu' (Good Morning in Maltese). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Paola like a local, visit the local markets, especially the Paola Open Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Maltese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, attend a local festa or religious festival, which often includes fireworks, processions, and traditional music.