Malta is one of the densest countries with a population of more than 350,000 people. It is a beautiful country with lovely Mediterranean weather and a picturesque environment. It has low taxes and is also a reasonably priced place to live and raise a family.



Perhaps that is why Malta is home to some of the largest family units in Europe. The European Parliament by the Institute for Family Policy published a report called, 'The Evolution of the Family in Europe 2008' stating that Malta has the largest families in all of Europe.

Why the Maltese Have Big Families

Of course, the affordability of living on the island and raising a family there is not the only reason the Maltese tend to have larger family units.

The Maltese community is very close knit. Even Maltese who don't live in Malta anymore stay close to their family ties no matter where they live. The extended family is highly valued by the Maltese. Some believe it takes a village to raise a child. The Maltese live this philosophy by including aunts, uncles and grandparents in family events and celebrations.

Another reason why the Maltese have strong families is because of their religion. As many as 97% of the people in Malta are Roman Catholic. The people are tied by the bonds of their religion. They also do not believe in birth control as far as the family unit goes.

Furthermore, Maltese families are raised by tradition and folklore. This is just anther example of the strong family ties that Malta families experience. Historically, a Maltese family of four or more children was quite common. Today, two or three children are normal for most Maltese families.

Of course, the reason Maltese families are bigger than the rest of the European countries could just be because it is an island. Aside from tourist attractions, there isn't much to do on the densely populated island of Malta. Malta families have traditionally been large, though they have declined in recent decades. Family and children continue to be a top priority for the Maltese.

The National Commission for the Family

The National Commission for the Family fights for family rights and intervenes with the government in Malta to preserve the family unit.

* They promote the Malta family unit and its well-being.

* They propose new legislation as necessary to ensure family rights are being met and protected.

* They study social welfare in Malta.

* They assist with family court issues.

* They ensure that the economic needs of the family unit are being met.

Family Holidays in Malta

Malta is the perfect place for a family holiday because the Maltese truly value children and family. The locals love kids and it shows. Hotels offer kid clubs and nanny services so kids can have fun while parents get some alone time. Family holidays in Malta are fun because you can explore Marine Park, Splash 'n fun Park and Popeye Village.

Families can also focus on enjoying the beauty of Malta by visiting historical sites and churches, taking a boat excursion, biking through the mountains, stopping to enjoy the flowers, watching dolphins, swimming, snorkeling or just resting on the beach together.