The Island of Malta: A Mediterranean Paradise

Malta’s story began even before recorded history when pre-historic settlers inhabited the islands and created some of the most beautiful temples in honor of the gods of the time. Along the centuries, several foreign rulers set their eyes on Malta and set foot on its shores with the intent of governing the island, due to its strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean. Throughout the ages, Malta was Phoenician, Arab, Roman, Byzantine, belonged to the Knights of St. John, the French and the British before becoming the independent island state it is today.

A view of Malta’s capital city of Valletta from Tigne Point Luxury Development, Sliema

All these civilizations and rulers left behind their own traditions, culture and beliefs that made Malta the melting pot of cultures and history that it is today.

A part of Malta’s remarkable and eventful history still resides in those homes of great character on offer around the Maltese Islands. It is extremely fascinating to retrace historical traditions and past lifestyles in these remarkable residences that are widely sought after and demanded today. These houses of character range from sumptuous stately homes to rustic farmhouses – each telling a little bit about the lifestyle of their time and their original homeowners.

Malta and its Houses

Quirky. Majestic. Imposing. Elusive. Charming. Unique. All of these adjectives aptly describe the composition of traditional Maltese homes, more popularly and commonly referred to as houses of character. Rightly so, as in all their forms, shapes and sizes such properties are brimming with timeless charm and a particular undertone of preciousness brought about by their centuries-long history – in a way it can be said that not unlike wine, if properly preserved these houses can maintain and increase their quality.

Elegant House of Character, Attard | Malta Sotheby’s International Realty

The traditional architectural features of these houses never fail to captivate the eye and heart of those with a keen sense of appreciation for skilful craftsmanship. Elements such as the traditional Maltese balcony, wooden beams, arched and vaulted ceilings, cellars, central courtyards and stone floors or intricately patterned tiles characterize the composition of these homes.

18^th Century Palazzo, Zejtun | Malta Sotheby’s International Realty

The offering includes village and country homes tucked quietly away in the heart or on the outskirts of Malta’s characteristic villages, stately townhouses with imposing facades, countryside farmhouses – for which Gozo is especially renowned – and majestic palazzinos and palazzos exuding old world grandeur. Their value is often further enhanced by their setting, being it the quiet countryside evoking rustic charm or a quaint, winding alleyway adding a nostalgic touch of past insularity.

Sumptuous Town House, Birkirkara | Malta Sotheby’s International Realty

Converted Farmhouse, Kercem, Gozo | Malta Sotheby’s International Realty

The high demand for homes of character due to their attractive features ensured for these properties an appreciating value on the market year after year, particularly as demand started outweighing supply and availability keeps grows shorter and shorter.

Malta Sotheby’s International Realty is the local luxury real estate brand representative on the Maltese Islands.

Content provided by Malta Sotheby’s International Realty. 

Aaaaaaand they’re off! Derby Day is almost upon us, which means it’s time for the ladies to dust off their hats and the gentlemen to crack out their seersucker suits. Here in Saratoga Springs, it’s the first signifier that our own track season is fast approaching. So before we start sippin’ mint juleps in anticipation of the “Most Exciting Two Minutes In Sports”, we’d like to present 5 of our extraordinary equestrian properties that truly hit the trifecta.

667 Route 403, Westerlo NY | $2,250,000

Welcome to Graywood – an equestrian masterpiece! Having been operated as an equestrian estate for many years, Graywood offers functionality and adaptability to all breeds and associated disciplines. The estate includes over 100 acres with a 4,500 square foot main home, 49 stalls, soft dirt paddocks, a show ring, an oversized arena, viewing room, multiple barns, half a mile of exercise track, miles of bridle paths and much, much more! With easy access to the Harness and Thoroughbred Tracks, Graywood lends itself to either the pleasure horse-owner or the professional, seeking a commercial venture. A full staff is already in place for the next owner.

287 Jones Road, Hartwick NY | $1,399,000

This property is tucked away in the lush green countryside of New York, and provides boundless opportunities for both humans and horses alike! For your equine companions, you’ll find a large timber-framed barn, a full sized, WeCover indoor riding arena and another full-sized outdoor arena. Your athlete will be inspired to give you his best performance on the state of the art, professionally installed footing while schooling under the soaring rooflines and bright, shadowless light. The beautifully updated, classic farmhouse is accompanied by a second home on the property which could be used as guest, trainer or staff quarters, or provide a monthly rental income. Settled on 153 bucolic acres with scenic views aplenty, enjoy the cultural offerings of nearby Cooperstown, summer home of the New York City Opera and the Glimmerglass Festival.

9 Kircher Road, Saratoga Springs NY | $1,595,000

This magnificent estate, located just moments from Saratoga Springs and the Skidmore Stables, encapsulates the best of refined Racing City living. Settled on 6.6 acres, there are amenities abound between the home, the barn and the grounds sure to satisfy even the most discerning homebuyer. The 1,600 square foot barn comes complete with 3 horse stalls, 1 feed stall, 1 wash stall, a heated tack room with a 360 square foot studio apartment, a paddock, walk-in cover and a lightened arena. The stately, custom home has 5,323 square feet of living space over three levels, meaning that there is plenty of room for both family and friends with a plethora of entertainment options. Both equine enthusiasts and high-end homebuyers alike are sure to become enraptured by the charm of this unique and distinctive property. Tucked away on the outskirts of town, this property is a rare treasure and is certainly not to be missed.

PS: Check out the video here!

287 Halds Road, Westport NY | $895,000

Fair Meadow Farm is an incredible country estate, siting on over 70 private acres. Some of the remarkable features include barns with horse fencing, ponds and streams. The lovingly restored country farmhouse offers very unique and exceptional details. Mountain hiking and trails throughout the property offer views of Lake Champlain.

8040 State Route 28, Newport NY | $815,000

The possibilities are limitless with this historic estate along the West Canada Creek. The 7,256 home has been meticulously renovated, allowing for its old-world charm to be complimented by modern conveniences. The property is also home to a 17 stall horse barn with a tack room, an outdoor riding arena and multiple turnouts. Settled on 85 acres, some other features include a private pond, apple orchard, snowmobile trails and a large indoor swimming pool.