History of Malta

Malta Through the Ages

From the world's oldest free-standing temples to modern independence — explore Malta's remarkable 5,000-year story.

All Eras 🏛️ Ancient/Prehistoric Malta ⚔️ Phoenician & Roman Period 🕌 Arab & Norman Period ✝️ Knights of St John 🚢 French & British Colonial Period 🇲🇹 Independence & Modern Malta
8 events in Arab & Norman Period  ·  Clear filter ✕
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870 AD
🕌 Arab & Norman Period
Arab Conquest of Malta
Arab forces conquered Malta in 870 AD, introducing the Arabic language which would form the basis of the modern Maltese language.
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1000
🕌 Arab & Norman Period
Arab Legacy & Language
The Arabs introduced Siculo-Arabic, cotton, oranges, lemons, and new irrigation techniques. Many Maltese place names date to this period — and the Maltese language itself evolved from Arabic. Wikipedia
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1053
🕌 Arab & Norman Period
Byzantine Siege of Medina
The Byzantines attempted to retake Malta but were repelled by Arab defenders of Medina (Mdina).
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1091
🕌 Arab & Norman Period
Norman Invasion
In 1091, Count Roger I of Sicily invaded Malta and turned the island's Muslim rulers into his vassals, beginning the re-Christianisation of the islands. Wikipedia
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1127
🕌 Arab & Norman Period
Norman Rule Consolidated
In 1127, Roger II of Sicily fully established Norman rule in Malta, paving the way for the island's Christianisation. 
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