Malta, steeped in history and cultural richness, boasts a unique language that reflects its diverse past. The Maltese language, known locally as “Malti” or “Il-Lingwa Maltija,” stands out as a fascinating example of linguistic convergence and adaptation.

A Semitic Root with Romance Superstrata:

• Classified as a Semitic language, Malti shares its roots with Arabic dialects spoken in North Africa, particularly Sicilian Arabic, which arrived on the islands around the 9th century AD.
• This core Semitic base was heavily influenced by Romance languages, primarily Sicilian and Italian, due to historical ties and cultural exchange throughout the centuries.
• As a result, Malti possesses a unique vocabulary, with approximately 52% of its words derived from Italian/Sicilian, 32% from Siculo-Arabic, and 6% from English, with the remaining words having diverse origins like French and Greek.

Distinctive Traits:

• Writing System: While Maltese is a Semitic language, it is written in the Latin alphabet, unlike other Semitic languages that typically utilize their own scripts. This adoption of the Latin script is attributed to the influence of European languages.
• Phonology: Malti features sounds and pronunciation patterns distinct from both Arabic and Romance languages, further solidifying its unique identity.
• Grammar: Maltese grammar exhibits influences from both Arabic and Romance languages, making it a fascinating case study in linguistic convergence.

A Living Language:

Maltese is the official language of Malta and spoken by the majority of the population. It is used in education, government, media, and everyday communication.

Challenges and Preservation Efforts:

• Despite its widespread use, Maltese faces certain challenges in the modern world, including the dominance of English in various sectors.
• Efforts are ongoing to preserve and promote Maltese through initiatives like language courses, cultural events, and educational programs.

Exploring Maltese:

Learning a few basic Maltese phrases will not only enhance your travel experience in Malta but also demonstrate respect for the local culture and its unique language.

Here are some examples:

• Bonġu (BON-joo): Hello
• Grazzi (GRAHT-see): Thank you
• Jekk jogħġbok (YEK yoh-ghob): Please
• Iva (EE-va): Yes
• Le (leh): No