Languages of Malta: An Overview of Maltese, English, and Italian

Malta, an island nation in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its linguistic diversity. This diversity is largely due to its rich historical and cultural heritage, which has influenced its language landscape over the centuries. The country has two official languages: Maltese and English, both of which play significant roles in the daily lives of its inhabitants.

Maltese: The National Language

Maltese is the primary language and national tongue of Malta. It is a Semitic language derived from Arabic, with influences from Italian and English. Maltese, commonly known as Malti (Italian: Maltinese), is the first language of 97 percent of the Maltese population. The language has a unique history, evolving from the now-extinct Sicilian-Arabic dialect that developed during the Emirate of Sicily. The Maltese alphabet, consisting of 30 letters, includes diacritically altered letters and the addition of letters g and ie.

The Historical Evolution of Languages in Malta

Malta's linguistic evolution is a testament to its historical and cultural influences. Before the emergence of Maltese in its present form, Sicilian was the official and cultural language of the island from the 12th century. Following this, the Tuscan dialect of Italian became influential, particularly from the 16th century onwards. These languages left a lasting imprint on the linguistic identity of the Maltese people.

The Role of English in Malta

Despite the prominence of Maltese, English is also a significant language in the country. It is widely used in government, business, and education, making it an important tool for communication and international relations. English is spoken by an impressive 88 percent of the population, indicating its widespread utility. It is complemented by Italian, which is spoken by some due to historical ties with Italy, shared by around 66 percent of the population. While Italian might not be an official language, its presence in areas such as tourism and cuisine underscores its importance.

Multilingualism in Malta

The linguistic landscape of Malta is one of the most diverse and thriving in the European Union. As a result, the country is home to a rich tapestry of languages. In addition to Maltese and English, the population also speaks French (17 percent). This multilingual environment not only enriches the cultural fabric of the nation but also facilitates smoother communication and interaction in a globalized world.

The Unique Character of the Maltese Language

Maltese stands out as the only Semitic language in the European Union. Its composition reflects its historical evolution, with 75 percent North African Arabic and 25 percent Italian influences. The language also incorporates words from French and English. This linguistic blend makes Maltese unique and partly understandable to speakers of similar North African dialects.

Maltese, with its rich history and diverse influences, continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic and culturally rich society of Malta. Understanding and appreciating its linguistic diversity offers valuable insights into the nation's history and present-day realities.