Field Report: MALTA
Malta is an island on the Mediterranean Sea between Italy and Africa, difficult to even spot on a map. We didn’t know much about this small European country and asked around for some skate insights or tips, but nobody seemed to know what to expect. This made it more exciting and with a daypack & skateboard in hand, booked a last minute flight and took off into the unknown.
The capital and adjacent cities lie on a winding coastline with many harbours and coved beaches. The roads are surprisingly smooth to skate, with creative spots everywhere. The architecture is ancient with towering walls and fortresses that take you back in time. People have inhabited Malta since 5900 BC, but skateboarders only for the last few decades. Apart from the occasional traveling skaters, the local skate community is small but strong, despite the lack of core skateshops and skateparks.
Msida Skatepark: Built in 2008, this skatepark sits in the middle of a giant roundabout and the only way to get inside is through underground walkways. The main area of the park resembles a giant double sided ditch with different angled walls, kinks, hips, and ledges jutting out in interesting ways. There is a separate bowl and street section as well, but every obstacle is quite aged. The word is that the original plans and construction came from skaters, but after some issues the city ended up having to finish it on their own and in their own way. This made some of the transition and flow odd and takes a bit to get used to- but overall is a really fun park to skate and experience. There’s lights at night and the locals are always down to hang out or show you around.
Pretty Bay, Birzebbuga: On the south side of the island, Malta’s second skatepark is taking shape. The president listened to local community groups and together they started SPARK, a project designed to provide youth with a place to practice sports and activities. Unfortunately there is no information on who is building this park, but it appears to be made by skaters who know what they’re doing. There will be a flow bowl section, small street course, large street course with funbox, hubbas and quarterpipes with various options and extensions. There is no doubt that a skatepark on the beach with views like this will be a hotspot, and will strengthen the skate community of the island. If you find yourself on the island, check it out as the park should be finished by now.
Apart from skating, the entire island is something to explore. Incredible cliffs, ancient cities, turquoise waters and deep caves. Even some of the oldest human built structures in the world are here, still around since 3500 BC. Almost everyone speaks english, but the local language is Maltese- a mix of Arabic spoken with Italian flow. The people here are incredibly friendly, and the local skaters will show you around skatespots or neighborhood hangouts. All in all, if you’re traveling nearby or looking for a rad weekend mission, Malta is definitely a worthwhile destination.
Official flag of Malta // Source: Google Images
words / photos by: Matthew Kruszelnicki (@mattkruz)