Filfla island is the smallest of the Maltese archipelago of five islands. This small island stands in the open sea in front of the Blue Grotto caves attraction. You can see it 5 km away from the shores of Malta. If you like diving, this may be one of the best locations to do so. It is very possible to see large fish like tuna and barracuda around the island. The water is clean and clear as there is no human intervention. Divers rate it as beautiful.
History of Filfla island
Filfla island got created with the separation from the mainland. The name comes from the Arabic word filfel, which means chilly or pepper. In 1343 a local fisherman built a small chapel, and it was the only structure on Filfla Island. The chapel used to offer refuge to seamen during storms. Food and water were always there for those who will need it. At that time also wild rabbits inhabited the island and were used as food. In 1856 the island was hit by a strong earthquake, and half of the island went under the sea. The chapel as well.
Filfla island got created with the separation from the mainland. The name comes from the Arabic word filfel, which means chilly or pepper. In 1343 a local fisherman built a small chapel, and it was the only structure on Filfla Island. The chapel used to offer refuge to seamen during storms. Food and water were always there for those who will need it. At that time also wild rabbits inhabited the island and were used as food. In 1856 the island was hit by a strong earthquake, and half of the island went under the sea. The chapel as well.
Filfla island during WWII
The island was used by the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force for some target practices. The bombing during WWII reduced its size and caused big damage to the wildlife. Even it changed the physical look of the island. Since 1980 Filfla island is a nature reserve, home to many plants and animals, protected by the law.
The island was used by the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force for some target practices. The bombing during WWII reduced its size and caused big damage to the wildlife. Even it changed the physical look of the island. Since 1980 Filfla island is a nature reserve, home to many plants and animals, protected by the law.
Can you visit Filfla island?
Tourists are not allowed, and you can only enter if it is approved by the Ministry of Environment. You can not even go fishing within a natural mile around the land. Sometimes they organize daily tours, where for a few hours people explore around it.
Discover more on Travel Story Post.
Tourists are not allowed, and you can only enter if it is approved by the Ministry of Environment. You can not even go fishing within a natural mile around the land. Sometimes they organize daily tours, where for a few hours people explore around it.
Discover more on Travel Story Post.
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