Republic Day

Republic Day (MLT) History

Malta Republic Day commemorates the establishment of Malta as a republic. On this day, the country reflects on the significant changes in its political landscape, as it transitioned from British colonial rule to become an independent and sovereign nation. The main focus of Malta Republic Day is to celebrate Maltese democracy, freedom, and national identity, as well as to remember the sacrifices made by those who fought for the country's independence.

The roots of Malta Republic Day date back to December 13, 1974, when the country moved from a Commonwealth realm, retaining Queen Elizabeth II as head of state, to a republic with a president as head of state. This transition was the culmination of a long struggle for self-determination, starting with the granting of self-government in 1921, the achievement of independence in 1964, and finally, the establishment of the republic. Malta Republic Day signals an important milestone in the island nation's progress, as Malta joined the EU in 2004 and has since become a stable and thriving member state, contributing to European policy-making and upholding the values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

Consulates and embassies organize cultural events to showcase Maltese heritage, while various activities are held to deepen the understanding of Malta's journey to become a republic. Local Maltese communities also engage in the celebration of their national identity through gatherings, patriotic songs, and the display of the Maltese flag. Malta Republic Day is observed annually on December 13th.

Top facts about Republic Day

• Over the last 2000 years, Malta has been subjected to 11 different foreign rulers; France and Britain are its two most recent rulers.
• The geographic area that Malta occupies was once a part of mainland Europe. Approximately 17,000 years ago, Malta was part of a mountaintop connected to mainland Italy.
• The Mosta Dome, one of Malta’s largest and oldest churches miraculously survived WWII despite German forces having dropped a 500kg bomb on it (the bomb failed to detonate).
• Malta finally lowered the British Union Jack flag in 1979 and replaced it with its own flag.
• On what rests the hope of the republic? One country, one language, one flag! – Alexander Henry, A leading pioneer in the British-Canadian fur trade.

In the News and Trending in the EU for Republic Day

Republic Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Visit the Monument of Republic Day at Marsa. This monument was erected specifically to celebrate Malta becoming a Republic. It is one of the most popular places to celebrate Republic Day and show your Maltese pride with national colours and flags.
• Watch a movie that is set in Malta or is about Maltese history. Some of our favourites are: Malta Story (1953), 48 Hours in Malta (2013), and Passfire (2016).
• Attend the fireworks display over the Grand Harbour. They are some of the largest fireworks displays all of Malta and typically feature a large production value.
• Spread awareness on social media by using the hashtags #MaltaRepublicDay, #MaltaRepublic and #RepublicDay.