Filfla is a small, uninhabited island located approximately 4.5 kilometers south of Malta, making it the southernmost point of the Maltese Archipelago. Covering an area of about 3.73 hectares, the island is characterized by steep cliffs rising 60 meters above sea level and a largely barren limestone landscape. Over millennia, the island’s size has significantly diminished due to natural erosion and, more recently, heavy military bombing exercises conducted by the British and other naval and air forces.

The name Filfla is derived from the Arabic word felfel, meaning pepper, likely referencing either the island’s small size or its shape. Despite its uninhabited nature, Filfla holds significant historical and cultural importance. In 1343, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built inside a cave on the island, serving as a refuge for sailors caught in storms. However, an earthquake in 1856 destroyed the chapel and submerged parts of the island. Today, the titular painting from the chapel, dated 1604, is preserved in the parish church of St. Catherine in Żurrieq.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Filfla was used in prehistoric times, with Copper Age and Bronze Age pottery fragments found on the island. Some researchers believe it was considered sacred by Malta’s Neolithic inhabitants, especially given its proximity to the ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra. Cart ruts, likely from the Bronze Age or later, were once visible on the islet until the late 19th century.

Between the late 19th century and 1971, the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force used Filfla as a military target practice site. This resulted in unexploded ordnance scattered around the island, leading to restricted access and a one-nautical-mile no-fishing zone. In 1980, Filfla was declared a bird reserve, and today it is recognized as an Important Bird Area due to its significant seabird populations, including one of the world’s largest colonies of European Storm Petrels (Hydrobates pelagicus).

Filfla is not only rich in history but also steeped in myth and legend:

• Neolithic Symbolism: Some researchers speculate that Filfla may have held spiritual significance for Malta’s ancient temple builders. Its silhouette on the horizon may have been important in religious or astronomical practices.
• Folklore and Legends: Local legends claim that Filfla was formed when angels cast a sinful village into the sea from the nearby area of Il-Maqluba.
• Lost Structures: Recent discoveries hint at possible remnants of the destroyed chapel, adding to the island’s enigma.

Due to its isolation, Filfla is home to unique wildlife, including two endemic species: the Filfla wall lizard (Podarcis filfolensis filfolensis) and the Filfla door snail (Lampedusa imitatrix). The island also hosts large breeding colonies of seabirds, such as Cory’s Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea) and the European Storm Petrel.

Filfla is off-limits to visitors, with access restricted to scientific and educational purposes to protect its fragile ecosystem. However, it can be admired from several stunning locations in Malta, including:

• Dingli Cliffs – One of the best vantage points offering breathtaking views of Filfla.
• Blue Grotto – A popular boat excursion near the island.
• Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples – Megalithic sites where Filfla can be seen on the horizon, just as Malta’s ancient inhabitants once did.

Filfla remains one of Malta’s most intriguing and mysterious locations, blending history, legend, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply captivated by Malta’s hidden gems, Filfla stands as a testament to the archipelago’s rich past and unique biodiversity. Although visiting the island is prohibited, its enigmatic presence continues to inspire awe from afar.