Languages Spoken in Malta: Diversity, Education, and Cultural Influence

Malta, a small island nation in the Mediterranean, offers a rich linguistic tapestry influenced by its complex history of occupation and its strategic location. The country’s official languages reflect its historical and contemporary ties, embodying a blend of native and foreign influences.

Today, we will discuss the spoken languages in Malta and how their influence on the country.

What language is spoken in Malta?

Malta is unique, not just in its scenic beauty but also in its linguistic identity. The Maltese language holds the distinction of being the only Semitic language in the European Union, with a rich history that mirrors the island's diverse cultural past. Rooted in Siculo-Arabic, Maltese has evolved significantly over the centuries, incorporating elements from Italian, Sicilian, and, more recently, English. This evolution makes Maltese a fascinating study for linguists and language enthusiasts alike.

English, on the other hand, was introduced during the British colonial period and has remained a co-official language since Malta's independence. Today, English is ubiquitous, permeating every aspect of Maltese life from education to business, making Malta an ideal destination for tourists who can navigate the island comfortably with English.

Read more: European Languages: Exploring the Languages of Europe

How many languages are spoken in Malta?

While Maltese and English dominate, Malta's language scene is enriched by its tourist-driven economy and diverse expatriate communities. Italian, once an official language, remains widely spoken, especially among older generations and due to Malta's proximity to Italy. 

It is estimated that Malta is home to around 15 languages. This number may vary as many of the languages are introduced by immigrants who currently reside in the country. An example of the newer additions to the linguistic mix include French, Russian, and Arabic, each brought to the shores by recent immigrants and adding to the cosmopolitan vibe of areas like Valletta.

Languages in Malta

Malta is a linguistic tapestry, reflecting its complex history and modern cosmopolitan character through the variety of languages spoken across the island. Here’s a detailed look at the primary and other significant languages in Malta:

Italian

Italian holds a special place in Maltese linguistic heritage. Although no longer an official language, it remains widely spoken and understood, especially among the older generations. This prevalence is largely due to Malta's historical ties with Italy and its geographic proximity, which facilitates cultural and media influences. Italian television channels and publications are popular, keeping the language alive and vibrant within the community.

Arabic

The Arabic language in Malta highlights the island's evolving demographic landscape. Reflecting newer immigration patterns, Arabic has become increasingly heard, especially in cosmopolitan areas like Valletta and in major tourist centers. This shift not only enriches the local linguistic scene but also underscores the broader cultural and economic interactions between Malta and various Arab-speaking countries. As Malta continues to grow as a tourist and business hub, the prominence of Arabic serves as a bridge to these communities, enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.

French 

French in Malta is not just a language spoken by the expatriate community. It is also a prominent part of the educational curriculum in many schools across the island. This reflects Malta’s strong educational links to European culture and languages. The teaching of French in schools is motivated by its international significance in diplomacy, business, and cultural exchanges.

It serves as a lingua franca in many parts of the world, making it a valuable asset for Maltese students aiming for international careers or studies. Furthermore, the presence of French culture and language in Malta also facilitates tourism and business relationships with French-speaking countries, enhancing cultural and economic exchanges.

Russian

Russian is another language that has made its mark in Malta, particularly among the growing Russian expatriate community. It is increasingly taught in schools, reflecting the cultural and economic ties between Malta and Russian-speaking regions. Russian in Malta caters to both expatriate children and local students who are interested in Russia’s extensive cultural heritage and its significant global economic influence. 

Additionally, the language serves as a bridge for business and cultural interactions, with many Maltese businesses and tourism operators catering to Russian speakers. The educational system’s inclusion of Russian helps prepare students for diverse opportunities in a world where Russia plays a key geopolitical role.

Indigenous languages

Maltese is the only indigenous language of Malta, formed by a mix of historical influences. While it's the standard language taught and used officially, there are several local dialects, especially in rural areas. These dialects reflect the island's diverse history and geography, each showcasing unique linguistic traits that highlight different aspects of Malta's cultural identity:

1. Gozo dialect (Għawdex)

The Gozo dialect, or 'Għawdxi,' is spoken on Malta’s sister island, Gozo. This dialect is notably different from standard Maltese, with variations in pronunciation and vocabulary. For instance, the Gozo dialect often preserves older sounds that have been lost in other forms of Maltese, and its speakers tend to use certain archaic words that are no longer commonly found in the main island's dialect. This dialect not only highlights the linguistic diversity within the small archipelago but also underlines the cultural identity specific to Gozitans, fostering a strong sense of community and heritage.

2. Zejtun dialect

The Zejtun dialect, originating from the southern town of Zejtun, is another distinct form of Maltese. Known for its unique intonation and pronunciation, this dialect also includes several unique words and phrases, lending it a distinct rhythmic and phonetic character. The Zejtun dialect has been influenced historically by its proximity to major ports and its agricultural background, which have both contributed to its distinctiveness from the standard Maltese spoken in urban centers.

3. Qormi dialect

The Qormi dialect is spoken in the central town of Qormi, known historically for its bakeries and traditional Maltese bread. This dialect is characterized by certain phonetic shifts, such as the pronunciation of ‘q’ as a glottal stop, which is more pronounced than in other regions. Additionally, the Qormi dialect has unique lexical choices that reflect the town’s artisanal and working-class roots, preserving a linguistic footprint of its socio-economic history.

Read more: The world's most endangered languages

Language education and policy

Malta’s education system is fundamentally bilingual, ensuring that students become proficient in both Maltese and English from an early age. This approach not only reflects the nation's linguistic heritage but also prepares students for global engagement. 

Additionally, recognizing the importance of multilingual proficiency in a country with strong European ties and a robust tourism industry, the curriculum further includes the learning of other European languages such as Italian, French, and German. Malta's linguistic diversity enhances students' learning, providing them with skills for personal and professional growth in a multicultural and connected economy.

Languages in media and technology

In Malta, the media and technological landscapes are predominantly shaped by the Maltese and English languages. These languages not only dominate local content but also facilitate international communication. Italian media also enjoys significant popularity due to Malta's proximity and historical ties to Italy, making Italian television channels, films, and publications readily available and widely consumed by the Maltese population. 

On the digital front, concerted efforts are underway to enhance the online presence of the Maltese language. Initiatives aim to ensure that Maltese thrives in the digital era, maintaining its relevance and usability on the internet and in new media platforms.

Conclusion

Malta's linguistic environment is a reflection of its historical confluences and its modern European context. With strong policies in place to preserve the Maltese language while also embracing English for international engagement, Malta presents a dynamic model of bilingualism and linguistic hospitality.

As Malta continues to embrace its bilingual heritage and foster a welcoming business environment, understanding its unique linguistic landscape is crucial for companies looking to enter this vibrant market. Partner with Tomedes to ensure your business communicates effectively in both Maltese and English, connecting with the local culture and maximizing opportunities in Malta's dynamic economy.