These colorful boats that you may have seen floating around the Maltese Islands. Over the years, they have become a massive symbol of local identity and an icon of the island.
These beautiful boats date back at least three centuries and were being used during the Knights of St John’s rule in Malta.
But there are probably a few more things you didn’t know about Maltese boats. And this is what you’re about to find out today, so don’t go anywhere.
1. The Reason It’s Painted In Fabulous Colors
There’s a good chance you’ve noticed the bright colors the boats are painted with, but you probably don’t know what they symbolize.
Maltese boats are colored in bright shades of red, blue, yellow, and green, which are meant to represent the land, sun, sea, and green fields. It’s supposed to remind the fishermen of their home and where they spend their time.
2. Why It Has Eyes On The Front Of The Boat
When looking at traditional Maltese boats, did you ever notice the two eyes at the front of the boat?
Maybe you did, and perhaps you didn’t, but they are there for an extraordinary reason.
They are referred to as the Eye of Horus or of Osiris, and they are a symbol of protection, good health, and said to protect the fisherman while they were at sea.
It’s thought that the eyes may have been the modern survival of an ancient Phoenician custom used by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians.
3. There are Five Styles Of Maltese Boat
You might have noticed, but not all Maltese boats look identical; that’s because they were built for different things. So, let’s take a look at the styles and what they were used for:
- The Firilla – They are the earliest type of fishing boat in Malta but were originally used as passenger boats between Birgu and Senglea.
- The Luzzu – The fishing boat dates back to the early 20th century and is thought to have come from the Italian gozzo ship. They were considerably smaller than they are today and were thought to come with sails.
- The Dgħajsa – These are the traditional water taxi of Maltese waters and date back to the 17th century.
- The Xprunara – The boat dates back to the 16th century and was traditionally used to carry merchandise between Malta and Sicily.
- The Frejgatina – It’s a small fishing boat traditionally powered by two oars, but today you’ll see them with small outboard engines attached to the rear.
4. There Were Built Specifically For The Mediterranean Sea
The boats are made with timber and were designed specifically for the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean Sea isn’t like the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean; the waves are high but short due to there not being much wind to create long waves.
This meant they had to build the boats differently to cope with these conditions.
Final Thoughts
These iconic Maltese boats have been the lifeblood of the country for centuries. And still today, they help increase tourism and put food on the table for the locals.
If you’re ever in Malta, make sure you check out these beautiful boats or take a boat charter around the islands, you’re guaranteed a great experience.
