The maritime heritage of Malta: past, present and future

The concept of this paper materialised from the need to introduce those attending the conference to the host country's history and heritage as seen from the perspective of the sea. This initial introduction was then adapted to act as a platform for a discussion on various aspects of the islands' maritime heritage. Through this paper the author intends to highlight some of these aspects that are either partly overlooked or simply ignored all together. Concrete solutions to the various problems that exist can only be reached through an organised effort conducted by various local bodies. This paper may act as food for thought with regards to the most pressing question, being the identification of what needs to be done. Only once this is established can we truly focus on the how.