The Maltese Cross
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Easter will be celebrated in many parts of the world this weekend. I am finishing up the Rickshaw Run in India this weekend and will be celebrating for many reasons I hope.
One of the main symbols of Easter is the cross, so I decided to highlight an unusual cross found in the country of Malta this Easter. The Maltese cross is known for it’s 8 points and is a symbol of the Knights Hospitaller (Knights of Malta). The history behind the cross is varied and complex, there seem to be few facts that were in agreement.
This was one of the few things in agreement – the four arms of the Cross stand for the four Cardinal Virtues – prudence, temperance, justice and fortitude.
Putting aside the historical significance of the Maltese cross, it is the modern day symbol of Malta and you will find it everywhere – yes everywhere. In fact, when I was traveling in Malta I made a game out of it trying to photograph all of the places I saw it, in windows, lamps, fabric, walls, and doors. In fact once you sort of trained your eye for it you saw it everywhere. Next time you travel to Malta – see how many different places you can spot the 8 point cross!
If you are going to Malta then check out my articles about the island and how to spend a day in Valletta!
Valletta in a Day
What to eat in Malta
Sliema Photo Walk
A Day in Malta’s Three Cities
I’m headed to Malta in a week or so; I’ll keep an eye out for Maltese crosses!
MORE INFO:
The eight points of the four branches of the cross represent the eight Beatitudes viz. Happy are those who
are spiritually poor,
mourn,
are humble,
do God’s will,
are merciful,
are pure in heart,
work for peace,
are persecuted because they do what God requires.
It’s a beautiful symbol.
I agree that is a beautiful symbol! I especially like it in the lamp shade. Very interesting how it is used in so many ways.
Lovely post – and indeed an interesting and powerful symbol. I have some souvenirs with it;)
It is also worth to look for this symbol in other parts of Europe. E.g. one can find it in Vienna as well. There is even a Maltese church in the famous shopping street Kärntner Strasse.
Gorgeous photos! I love this kind of details and always look for similar things when I travel too. Small, unnecessary embellishments really express the character of a place and I guess the Maltese Cross is pretty appropriate in Malta! 🙂