Weddings and Honeymoons on Malta

Blessed with year-around sunshine and set in crystal-clear waters at the heart of the Mediterranean, the Maltese Islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino provide one of the most romantic and unique destinations for weddings and honeymoons.

A Malta wedding can be a simple civil ceremony or combined with a church ritual. In either case, legal formalities can be completed from the home country so that just a few signatures are required on the wedding day. The availability of over 365 churches offer a wide choice of locations for exchanging vows--from magnificent baroque churches to intimacy of a countryside chapel. Although Malta's religion is Roman Catholic, couples can also hold wedding services in churches of their own denomination. [Click here for Malta's wedding regulations.]

The nuptial celebration can be a dinner, a luncheon, or a cocktail party in a hotel, villa, converted farmhouse, or a noble palace. Professional caterers provide mouth-watering delicacies and a wedding cake to remember.

The going-away ritual can be a memorable one by using the 'karrozzin' --the traditional Maltese horse-drawn carriage, suitably decorated with floral arrangements. Should the party venue be close to the sea, the couple can opt to wave goodbye to guests from a 'luzzu' -- the typical, colorful Maltese fishing boat.

These carriages or karrozzin can carry a bride and groom away from the wedding to their new life together. Photo copyright Permenter & Bigley

Honeymooners who wish to soak up the Mediterranean pace of life will find Malta an ideal location. The island is dotted with ancient villages, each special in its own way, and perfect for newlyweds to enjoy some moments of tranquility.

The neighboring islands of Gozo and tiny Comino, both accessible by ferry or helicopter, possess their own particular charm. According to Greek legend, the temptress nymph Calypso lured Odysseus to Gozo, keeping him there, a prisoner of love, for seven years.

Today, Gozo is just as enchanting, offering a unique variety of cultural sites and natural landscapes. The imposing Citadel which towers over the capital, Victoria, is the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding. The Azure Window in Dwerja stands majestically as a gateway to the Mediterranean, while the nearby Inland Sea provides a shallow and deliciously warm pool for bathers. Gozo's green landscape of flat-topped hills, bordered by a spectacular coastline, offers stunning views and outstanding photo opportunities.

The tiny island of Comino is the essence of tranquility. Practically uninhabited, except for a modern hotel and a handful of permanent residents, the island is idea for watersports: snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, or sailing. Its famous Blue Lagoon is not only excellent for swimming, but is also one of the most inspiring sights of the Maltese Islands.

For those who seek a honeymoon retreat, there are charming, weathered, limestone farmhouses that are converted to provide modern, self-catering facilities. Wherever the wedding or honeymoon couple go, the atmosphere across the islands is carefree, relaxed, and happy.

For more information on a Malta, see VisitMalta.com.