Mediterranean, south of Sicily.

GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from the last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

316 sq km (122 sq miles).

397,000 (UN, 2005).

1256 sq km.

Valletta. Population: 7173 (2002).

The Maltese archipelago is situated in the middle of the Mediterranean, with the largest inhabited island, Malta, lying 93km (58 miles) south of Sicily and 290km (180 miles) from North Africa. Gozo and Comino are the only other inhabited islands. The landscape of all three is characterised by low hills with terraced fields. Malta has no mountains or rivers. Its coastline is indented with harbours, bays, creeks, sandy beaches and rocky coves. Gozo is connected to Malta by ferry and is more thickly vegetated, with many flat-topped hills and craggy cliffs. Comino, the smallest island, is connected to Malta and Gozo by ferry and is very sparsely populated.

Republic. Gained independence from the UK in 1964. Head of State: President Fenech Adami since 2004. Head of Government: Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi since 2004. Recent history: Lawrence Gonzi took office in March 2004, a few weeks before Malta's entry into the European Union. Mr Gonzi said Malta should seize the opportunities afforded by its imminent EU membership and promised to boost tourism and to create favourable conditions for investment

Maltese (a Semitic language) and English are the official languages. Italian is also widely spoken.

91 per cent Roman Catholic.

240 volts AC, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plug are in use.

The usual European courtesies are expected, but the visitor should also bear in mind the tremendous importance of Roman Catholicism; if visiting a church, for instance, modest dress covering the shoulders and legs will be expected. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in some public buildings, including cinemas.