Understanding Why Maltese Speak Italian: A Lingua Franca in the Mediterranean

The question of why Maltese people speak Italian often arises, yet the answer isn't rooted in historical or geographical proximity alone. The phenomenon of Maltese people speaking Italian can be better understood by examining linguistic and cultural factors.

Does Close Proximity Imply Language Speakership?

The first misconception is that because Malta is geographically close to Italy, all bordering individuals would be multilingual. However, this is not a regular occurrence, as illustrated by my experience in Malta where a child surprised his parents by speaking Italian, a language they couldn't understand. The child mentioned that Irish cartoons were broadcasted in Italian, a trend not common in other neighboring regions.

An Official Room of Semitic Language

Maltese is the official language of Malta, but it is quite distinct from Italian, as it is a Semitic language. While it has been influenced by Italian and other languages over time, it retains its unique identity. This linguistic diversity underscores the importance of recognizing that Maltese is its own language, despite these historical and cultural influences.

Historical and Cultural Influences

Historically, there have been strong ties between Malta and Italy due to their geographical proximity. In the Mediterranean, languages often serve as lingua francas, facilitating communication and cultural exchange. While Maltese is spoken exclusively by the Maltese people, Italian has played a significant role in this context. For example, Italian has been used for commercial, administrative, and cultural purposes, making it a useful language for everyday interactions and international relations.

Language as a Tool for Communication and Tourism

The proximity to Italy makes it convenient for Maltese people to learn Italian, especially for tourism and other leisure activities. Tourism is a significant part of Malta's economy, and the ability to communicate in Italian can be an advantage for both tourists and locals. Additionally, the Maltese are known for their interest in the culture and language of their Sicilian cousins. Interestingly, many families share similar surnames, such as Zarb (Zarbo in Sicilian), Schembri, Spiteri, and Vella, further illustrating the cultural and linguistic links between the two regions.

Conclusion: A Lingua Franca in the Mediterranean

The ability of Maltese people to speak Italian is a complex phenomenon influenced by historical and cultural factors, rather than simple proximity. It emphasizes the role of language in facilitating communication, cultural exchange, and tourism in the Mediterranean region. As such, understanding the linguistic landscape of Malta offers valuable insights into the broader patterns of linguistic influence in the Mediterranean.