Malta’s association with honey is so ancient that its very name is derived from the Roman word “Melita” meaning ‘honey-sweet’. Historians debate on whether the country got its name for its highly sought after honey, or its honey-hued stone architecture. Whichever it may be, there is no doubt that Maltese honey was considered in high regard since Roman times, and the island’s long-standing connection to apiculture (beekeeping) only grew in sophistication under Roman rule since 218 BC.
The Romans believed honey was so much more than a sweetener. They valued honey for its medicinal properties, and even used it as a valued item of trade.
Modern Maltese honey, especially Għasel (the Maltese word for honey), is often harvested using techniques passed down for centuries, reflecting a blend of Phoenician, Roman, and Arab practices. The continued reverence for honey in Maltese culture, both culinary and medicinal, is a living echo of Rome’s influence on the island’s agrarian identity.
One of the leading Maltese honey producers of today goes by the brand Golden Island Honey. During my Military Heritage press trip to Malta, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting with their team, and got a firsthand experience at honey harvesting.
What made the experience even more apt and unforgettable was the location; the honey harvesting experience was set up at the Tas-Silg Archeological Complex, an archeological site on the ancient ruins of a Roman temple that is still undergoing excavation.
This archeological site dates back over 4000 years, and faces the scenic harbor of Marsaxlokk Bay. It is therefore believed that this temple was built for Roman sailors who paid tribute to the gods for safety across the turbulent Mediterranean Sea.
We were asked to refrain from wearing any form of perfumes as it would upset the bees, and got into beekeeper outfits. We marched through the ancient ruins, and braved the buzzing of clouds of bees. Fun fact, one beehive is home to over 50,000 bees!
All I can say is I am so grateful for surviving this experience sting-free! It made that delicious Maltese honey all the more sweeter. And did I mention the Golden Island Honey Mead? This Maltese honey-based sweet wine is an absolute treat!
The Tezzy Files 