This treasure trove of history between Europe and Africa has it all: temple complexes dating back to 3000 BC, grand buildings fo the era of the knights of St. John, prehistoric artefacts and medieval manuscripts, stately fortifications from all centuries and colourful fishing boats with a painted watchful eye on the prow, the latter a custom dating back to the age of the Phoenicians... . All of this nicely packed onto an island half the size fo Rome. But there is still space for terraced hillsides green with vineyards, and on the coast dramatic sheer limestone cliffs or gentle slopes lead to sheltered bays and harbours where oppportunities for sunbaking, swimming, diving and snorkelling abound. A four-mile sea channel separates Malta from Gozo, its smaller greener sister, also a beautiful refuge for travellers seeking a quiet relaxing holiday blessed by the mediterranean sun.