Dwejra

Our guide took us over to the north west of the island to the oh-so-impressive Dwejra area where Mother Nature shows us how creative and destructive she can be.

Tine is standing on the causeway of the inland sea, linked to the Mediterranean by this cave naturally carved through the cliffs. On calmer days fishermen use the tunnel to go about their duties.

A couple of shots of the former Azure Window...

...apparently used in one scene in the Game of Thrones.

Why former? The arch collapsed earlier in the year, the stack disappearing too!

Odd rock and sand formationa all around us...

...and the turquoise sea...

...one intrepid individual taking his life in his hands. (Not really!)

A short journey inland and a photo opportunity of the Ta' Pinu Basilica

Cruise to Gozo

One of our golden oldie friends has mentioned Gozo so many times that we decided to take a day's cruise up the eastern coast of Malta to see what the attraction was.

Firstly the very convenient ferry across the harbour
 to Sliema, leaving from near the old police station, now a restaurant and so near our apartment

And off we go with lovely blue skies accompanying us

The sea was choppier than it looks here but not enough to upset this well-seasoned sailor

First glimpse of Mgarr Harbour where transport was waiting to take us around the small island

We stopped at a huge stone quarry overlooking the sea...

...and understood why all the buildings are this warm ochre colour!

St Paul's Catacombs

As hinted last time, our aim was to visit the catacombs in Rabat, and how amazing were they! They date from the Roman occupation of Malta when Christians weren't permitted to bury their dead within the city walls.

There's a taste of what's to come under the glass floor in the entrance hall

I don't think this skeleton was one of the original occupants somehow

The entrance to one set of catacombs. We were very surprised at how many there were.

The tunnels were carved out by hand... 

...with many a final resting place...

...and other smaller niches in the walls for children & babies.

A couple of living temporary residents

Interesting hieroglyphics...

...and early graffiti?

We even spotted colour used in one catacomb

Circular rock tables that the Romans used to commemorate the annual Festival of the Dead

Definitely a recommended visit if ever you're Malta-bound.

Rabat

Venturing out of the old city of Mdina into the neighbouring town of Rabat there was more history to be found.

Just a few yards/metres outside the walls we came across these Roman ruins, hardly signposted and apparently not to visit (at least on the day we were there).

A little further along, the Parish Church of St Paul...

...intriguing buildings...

...and narrow streets.

And here's where we were aiming for: St Paul's Catacombs 

More next time!

Betty Ada Hills

Interrupting holiday posts from Malta, and with very good reason, welcome young Betty, born on 25th January (8lb 15oz/4kg). Nadine, Simon & Alfie are over the moon, and so are      we!

Born at 23:14 and looking very peaceful next morning

The Hills menfolk looking very pleased with themselves

Alfie has been wonderful, always ready to cuddle his little sister

A very proud Mamie Tine...

...and Papy Dave...

...(plus Tonton Phil, of course).

Alfie & Betty still at the hospital...

...and back home...

Alfie helping to change Betty's nappy

A lovely Hills family shot...

Si's parents couldn't wait to meet their new granddaughter too. Nanan Christine...

...and Grandad Mike, here doing manly circuit-board stuff with Alfie.

To finish, four very peaceful shots

(Thanks for my play tunnel, Great Auntie Kate!)