Malta

Information

CJC Vice Presidents: Julius Nehorai, Gilles Pinto

Community Organisation: Jewish Community of Malta (JCM)

Demography

The Jewish population of Malta is approximately 400, concentrated in the capital city, Valetta.

History

The first Jews arrived in Malta with Phoenician traders in the 9th century BCE, but did not settle permanently until the 1st century AD.

Due to its geographical position, Malta attracted Jewish immigrants from several South Mediterranean and North African countries, living happily side by side with their Muslim and Christian neighbours.

Spanish rule brought antisemitism, however a bishop pardoned the Jews in 1400, removing a special tax for them and allowing them to live freely. But the Inquisition in 1492 led to expulsion of Jews from Malta, or conversion.

1530-1798 the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem took control of Malta. Jews were allowed to remain but only as slaves.

The French occupied Malta for two brief years 1798-1800. This was long enough for slavery to be abolished and Jews to be granted equality and this led to an increase in Jewish immigration again.

As the English took control of the island, some Jews moved to Gibraltar with the improved business links. y the end of the 19th century, the majority of resident Jews were British, but it was a small community.

During the Holocaust, Malta rescued thousands fleeing the Nazis.

Community Life

Malta has 1 synagogue serving a predominantly Sephardic community, although Ashkenazi services are also available. There are regular Shabbat services as well as on the High Holidays. The resident rabbi is Rabbi Reuben Ohayon.

Chabad has a presence in Malta and works closely with the JCM. Rabbi Chaim Segal developed a community centre in Sliema which is home to a synagogue, classrooms, a museum and a kosher restaurant. He also has a mikveh next to his house.

There are 3 Jewish cemeteries, one of which, Kalkara, was built for the Jewish slaves during the Knights' occupation.

Kashrut

Kosher food is available in Malta. and there is a kosher restaurant at the Chabad comunity centre in Sliema.

Education

Malta has a Jewish pre-school.

There are adult Jewish education programmes midweek evenings.

Affiliations

Commonwealth Jewish Council