Malta's Sustainable Tourism and Cultural Riches

Malta exemplifies sustainable tourism, with impeccable maintenance of UNESCO sites like the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra, respectful architectural interventions, and bilingual information. The island's capital, Valletta, founded in 1532 by Jean Parisot de la Vallette, features the ornate St. John's Co-Cathedral with frescoes by Mattia Preti (1662-1667) and two Caravaggio masterpieces from 1608: 'St. Jerome' and 'The Beheading of St. John the Baptist', commissioned by Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt. Other highlights include Casa Rocca Piccola, a noble palace still inhabited, and a recently opened convent with three nuns. Mdina, the former capital, houses Palazzo Falson, bought in 1927 by Olof Frederick Gollcher, now a museum with works by Murillo and Poussin, managed by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti. The article by Ludovico Pratesi contrasts Malta's approach with Italy's, emphasizing respect for tourists and preservation of cultural heritage.