 |
||
|
Presentations | |
|
||
|
Sponsors & Exhibitors | |
|
||
|
About Malta | |
|
||
|
||
About Malta
Rising from the blue waters in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta welcomes visitors to explore its rich history and vibrate culture. The islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino have long played a role in the colorful history of the region and are often described as a big open-air museum. What makes them unique is that so much of their past is visible today. Delve into the Islands' mysterious prehistory, discover the lasting legacy of the Byzantines or see where the Knights of St. John defended Christendom.
St. Julian's
The IAHSA 7th International Conference is located in the seaside village of St. Julian's just outside the capital city.
Under the British influence St Julian's changed from an insignificant locality to a bustling residential discrict. The bay opens and a scene of surpassing beauty for the Island of Malta presents itself: villas, terraces, green fields and gardens.
Yet Malta is home to more the just historical buildings and pristine seascapes. In 1968 Malta was the first nation to raise the question of Ageing as a matter of international concern at the United Nations.
This was the catalyst for what would eventually result in the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing which remains at the cornerstone of world wide policy on Ageing.
In addition Malta is the site of the United Nations International Institute on Ageing.Valletta
It is the "modern" city built by the Knights of St John; a masterpiece of the baroque; a European Art City; and a World Heritage City. But these are just some of its faces and fortunes. Valletta is also Malta's capital city: a living, working city, the administrative and commercial heart of the Islands. Nowhere in Malta is the life of the Islands reflected more than here. The city is busy by day, yet retains a timeless atmosphere. The grid of narrow streets house some of Europe's finest art works, churches and palaces.
Mdina
The history of Mdina and its suburb Rabat is as old and as chequered as the history of Malta itself. Mdina, Malta’s medieval capital, can trace its origins back more than 4000 years. It has had different names and titles depending on its rulers and its role but none describe it better than its medieval name, Citta’ Notabile, the noble city. It was home then, as now, to Malta’s noble families; some are descendants of the Norman, Sicilian and Spanish overlords who made Mdina their home from the 12th century onwards. Their Impressive palaces line its narrow, shady streets. Mdina is one of Europe’s finest examples of an ancient walled city, and unusual in its mix of medieval and baroque architecture.
The Island of Gozo
The charm of Gozo is apparent the moment you arrive there. Greener, more rural and smaller than Malta, life on Gozo moves at a leisurely pace. The rhythms are dictated by the seasons, fishing and agriculture. Gozo is steeped in myth. Thought to be the legendary Calypso's isle of Homer's Odyssey, it's a peaceful, mystical backwater. Baroque churches and old stone farmhouses dot the countryside. Its rugged landscape and spectacular coastline await exploration. Choose from rocky inlets to red sand beaches or sail, snorkel, dive and fish. Gozo has some of the Mediterranean's best dive sites.
Hal Saflieni Hypogeum
The Hypogeum has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Hypogeum is a labyrinthine complex of man-made chambers hewn out of the limestone extending some 11 metres below ground.
It appears to have been used both as a burial site and as a temple. The middle level, hewn out during the temple period (3800 - 2500 B.C.) is made up of numerous chambers. Many statuettes, amulets, figurines and vases were recovered here.
The most famous figurine is that of the so-called Sleeping Lady, a reclining figurine, perhaps meant as a representation of eternal sleep. It is on display at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta.
International Association of Homes and Services for the Ageing
2519 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20008-1520, USA
www.iahsa.net