Trace the terrain of the Maltese Islands as it was in a bygone era, thanks to old British cartography!

Old maps possess a unique beauty that today transcends their practical purpose, offering a glimpse into how people once saw and understood the world. Their intricate details, be they coastlines, the lie of the land, the sea depth soundings, and the ornate compass roses, evoke a sense of craftsmanship that modern maps often do away with. Such maps possess intrigue not just in their appearance, but also in the stories they tell – narratives of power, development, communication, connections, and the evolving way people have navigated the world.

The imperfections and speculative shapes of uncharted territories add an element of mystery, reminding us of a time when vast regions were less known, sparking the imagination of explorers and dreamers alike. Each map can also be enjoyed as a work of art, combining geographical knowledge with artistic flourishes that capture the curiosity and wonder of an age long gone.

“British Maps of Malta” is a unique exhibition that brings together a fascinating collection of maps and plans spanning from the 17^th to the early 20^th century.

From the days of the Order of St John to the French Blockade and Malta’s era as a British Colony, these maps reveal the rich and complex history of Malta through the art of British map making.

Featuring both loose and bound maps from prestigious private and state-owned collections, the exhibition is organised into 10 thematic sections. Each theme unveils a different aspect of Malta’s past – whether it’s the intrigue of early colonial ambitions, the strategic significance of its maritime routes, or the darker tales of epidemics and propaganda.

See how Malta evolved over centuries in terms of its political landscape, geological features, and infrastructural development, and how these changes were meticulously documented by British cartographers.