Malta has a rich spiritual history that dates back to the Neolithic period, evident in the megalithic temples scattered across the islands. These temples, such as Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, and Tarxien, indicate the worship of a mother goddess, suggesting a fertility cult similar to those found in other ancient Mediterranean civilizations.
The Sleeping Lady and the Mother Goddess
Archaeological discoveries, such as the "Sleeping Lady" figurine found in the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, suggest that the Maltese people venerated a goddess of fertility and the underworld. This deity is believed to have played a role in both life and death, overseeing human reproduction and serving as a guardian of the afterlife. The resemblance of these figures to other Mediterranean fertility goddesses, such as Astarte and Demeter, hints at continuity in spiritual traditions across millennia.
Phoenician and Carthaginian Influence
With the arrival of the Phoenicians around 800 BCE, Malta became part of the broader network of Semitic religious traditions. The Phoenicians introduced the worship of deities such as Astarte, Baal, and Melqart.
Astarte: Goddess of Fertility and Love
Astarte, a prominent goddess among the Phoenicians, was associated with fertility, war, and love. She was equated with the Greek Aphrodite and the Roman Venus, further influencing later religious beliefs on the island.
Melqart: The God of Strength and the Sea
Melqart, often associated with Heracles by the Greeks, was a patron deity of sailors and merchants. His cult played an essential role in Malta's maritime activities, as the island served as a stopover for Phoenician trade routes.
Roman and Early Christian Beliefs
Under Roman rule (218 BCE – 870 CE), Malta adopted many Greco-Roman deities while also witnessing the spread of early Christianity. Roman gods such as Juno, Jupiter, and Minerva had temples on the island, but by the 4th century CE, Christianity became the dominant religion.
The Legend of Saint Paul
Christian tradition holds that Saint Paul was shipwrecked on Malta in 60 CE while traveling to Rome. According to the Acts of the Apostles, Paul was bitten by a viper but remained unharmed, leading the Maltese to believe in his divine protection. This event marks the island’s deep Christian roots, which have persisted to the present day.
Folklore and Mythological Creatures
Maltese folklore is rich with supernatural beings and mythical creatures that reflect a blend of ancient, medieval, and Christian influences.
Il-Belliegħa (The Whispering Spirit)
A common belief in Maltese folklore is that of the belliegħa, a spirit that whispers in people’s ears to lure them toward danger, particularly near cliffs or the sea. This entity is often associated with restless souls or trickster spirits.
Il-Gawgaw
A ghostly figure that is said to emerge during the Christmas season, il-Gawgaw is a mischievous spirit that plays pranks on people, particularly children. It is part of a broader tradition of supernatural beings that interact with the mortal world during specific times of the year.
Il-Ġada (The Water Nymph)
Maltese folklore speaks of water spirits known as ġada, which are believed to reside in wells and springs. They are described as beautiful but dangerous beings who can enchant and mislead travelers, much like sirens in Greek mythology.
Catholic Rituals and Superstitions
Malta remains one of the most devoutly Catholic nations in Europe, with religious practices deeply embedded in daily life. However, many traditions incorporate older, pre-Christian elements.
Festa Celebrations
Maltese villages celebrate festi (religious feasts) dedicated to patron saints, involving elaborate processions, fireworks, and communal gatherings. These feasts often blend Catholic devotion with pre-Christian themes of fertility and protection.
Evil Eye and Protective Charms
The belief in the ħares (evil eye) remains widespread. Many Maltese wear charms such as the fekruna (turtle amulet) or the mano cornuto (horned hand) to ward off curses and bad luck.
Exorcisms and Holy Water
Although officially part of Catholic doctrine, exorcisms in Malta often incorporate folk remedies and older spiritual traditions. Holy water is frequently used to cleanse homes of negative spirits, reflecting a syncretic approach to faith.
Conclusion
Maltese beliefs and mythology are a unique blend of prehistoric spirituality, Phoenician and Roman deities, Christian traditions, and folk superstitions. Despite centuries of cultural and religious transformations, many ancient beliefs persist in Maltese customs, showcasing the island’s deep and complex spiritual heritage.