About Malta

93 kilometres south of Sicily, almost slap-bang in the middle of the blue Mediterranean, the Maltesearchipelago comprises three inhabited islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino.

Since the whole area adds up to only 196 sq. kilometres, you can understand that it was no easy task to come up with a marathon route of 42.2 kilometres without going round and round in circles. Since Malta is almost wedge-like in shape, with high cliffs on one side of the country tapering down to sea-level on the other coast, we did the best thing possible: start at the island's highest point and finish at the lowest.

But let's forget the marathon for a moment and talk about Malta itself. You want history? You are in the right place, Malta is the home of history.

While you are here, consider visiting the megalithic temples at Hagar Qim Ggantija, and Mnajdra, dating back 3,000 years. From the Stone Age, Ghar Dalam and Skorba. From the Copper Age, Xemxija Tombs and Mgarr temples.

For something more recent, soak up the wealth of rich history surrounding the knights of the Order of St John of Jerusalem, once the most fabulous figures in Christendom. Visit the Upper Barrakka Garden in Valletta and overlook the Three Cities that cluster on the opposite shore around the Grand Harbour. Built to withstand 'the Ottoman Turks during the Great Seige in 1565, the cities were followed soon after by the founding of the capital city of Valletta itself.

Or else take time out and visit the "Silent City" of Mdina whose main gate hosts the start of the Malta Marathon each year. Admire the grand architectural vision of the knights in this city which served as Malta's capital prior to the building of Valletta.

However don't go away with the idea that history is all we have in Malta. The sea surrounding Malta is the clearest, cleanest and bluest in the Mediterranean, still free of the pollution that affects Italy and southern France.

One of Malta's most precious assets, it has no tides to speak of, no treacherous currents and no dangerous fish. Coupled with the incomparable Mediterranean summer sun, it makes for an enticing reason to leave today's troubles for some other time and just head for the beach.

I know what you are thinking: you are coming in February which you think means cold winds and icy rain showers. But not in Malta! Trust me. Year after year the Malta Marathon surprises all our North European runners with its sunny warm temperature, the perfect excuse for pulling on those shorts and running vest and taking part in a race you will not forget for a long time.