Malta Freedom Day

Автор: OUTLOOK 31.03.2015 | Malta

On March 31, the Maltese celebrate Freedom Day. This feast is celebrated on the anniversary of the definite withdrawal of British armed forces, which were present there despite of the almost thirty years of state independence.

Freed from British colonial rule in 1964, Malta was still a base for British troops. After the end of a permanent military presence in the islands, the Republic declared its neutrality and refused to participate in any military alliances.

The country is home to only half a million people, nevertheless, it ranks fourth in the world for population density – Malta is the most densely populated country in the EU.

Freedom Day is a public holiday on the Maltese Islands and nearly all government agencies have a day-off.

But the main event of the festival takes place in the capital where a competitive Regatta is held at the Grand Harbour

Anyone can become a competitor by joining a team and paying for participation. Under the guidance of experienced skippers, yacht with brave ones sails away. Those who do not want to get their feet wet, can marvel Regatta from the shore. Everyone who visited the event will keep in memory view of bright traditional Maltese boats called id-dgh-ajsa Maltija, which look similar to Venetian gondolas, on the background of the ancient Valletta fort.