Easter Traditions in Malta
Easter is a significant festival celebrated across the world, and Malta is no exception. Although our Easter traditions are rooted in the Roman Catholic faith, it is a festivity for everyone irrespective of religion.
The Holy Week leading up to Easter is a time of great solemnity and reflection, with various religious processions and ceremonies taking place throughout the week, especially the Good Friday procession. This procession features statues depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, which are carried through the streets by parishioners. If you’re wondering why there are crosses everywhere in the streets right now, some bright red and neon, this is why.
This leads to other Easter traditions, such as the making of the Figolla.
Families in Malta will bond together to make this sweet that is traditionally baked in the shape of a lamb, egg or a cross. Of late, things have gotten considerably more creative, with cars, mermaids or cartoon characters being depicted in sweet form.
It is usually made with almond paste given a marzipan-like consistency and decorated with icing and colorful sugar. The Figolla is often given as a gift to family and friends during the Easter period. Consider yourself part of the family if someone makes you (or buys you!) a Figolla. 
Source: Canva / Lipmann
On Easter Sunday, families in Malta gather together for a traditional lunch or dinner. One of the most popular dishes served is roast lamb, which has religious connotations, but is also a nod to the lamb-shaped Figolla. The lamb is typically marinated in garlic, rosemary, and other herbs and spices before being slow-roasted to perfection.
Desserts also play a significant role in Maltese Easter cuisine, with traditional sweets like Kwareżimal, which are made from ground almonds, honey, and spices, being a particular favorite. Another popular dessert is the Imqaret, which are deep-fried pastries filled with dates and flavored with aniseed.
In addition to these traditional dishes, there are other Easter treats to keep an eye out, such as hot cross buns, Easter eggs, and various types of cakes and pastries.
Overall, Easter in Malta is a time of great significance, with a range of religious traditions and culinary delights that reflect the island's cultural heritage. Whether it's attending a Good Friday procession, baking a Figolla, or enjoying a traditional Easter meal with family and friends, Easter is a time for celebration and reflection.
If you want to try your hand at making a figolla, here’s a good recipe to follow. Rest assured that giving a local a hand-made figolla is a guaranteed way to make yourself very popular indeed!