[IN PICTURES] Malta marks 52 years of independence
Malta celebrates 52 years of Independence • Country's leaders mark day in pontifical mass and laying of wreaths on Independence monument in Floriana
21 September 2016, 12:56pm
Paul Cocks
Paul Cocks
1 min read
The Armed Forces of Malta guard of honour stands at attention as the national anthem is played on the arrival of acting prime minister Louis Grech
Acting president Dolores Cristina and acting prime minister Louis Grech were joined by other dignitaries today to mark the 52nd anniversary of Malta's Independence.
The leaders laid wreaths in front of the Independence Monument in Floriana after Archbishop Charles Scicluna led a pontifical mass at St John's co-cathedral.
The movement for independence gained pace after self rule was granted in 1947 and after a few false starts, including a close referendum that would have made Malta part of the United Kingdom.
The AFM band marching down Republic Street in Valletta
Acting president Dolores Cristina arrives in St John's Square
Following the passage of the Malta Independence Act 1964 by the British Parliament and the approval of a new Maltese constitution by 54.5% of voters in a referendum, Malta gained its independence on 21 September 1964.
The AFM guard of honour
Speaker of the House of Representatives Anglu Farrugia
It became as a Commonwealth realm, a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth of Nations with Elizabeth II as the Queen of Malta and head of state.
Archbishop Charles Scicluna
Pontificial mass at St John's Cathedral
On the night of 20 September, the Maltese flag was raised at Independence Arena in Floriana for the first time, marking the end of British rule.
Independence day is one five national holidays celebrated in Malta.
Paul Cocks joined MaltaToday after having spent years working in newspapers with The Times...
