Republic Day in Malta
Republic Day is observed in Malta on 13 December. It marks the 1974 constitutional change that made Malta a republic, replacing the British monarch as head of state with Malta’s first president, Sir Anthony Mamo.[1]
A national holiday with a constitutional meaning
Malta’s National Holidays and Other Public Holidays Act names 13 December as Republic Day. The law classifies national holidays as public holidays and provides for the Maltese flag to be flown on public buildings on those occasions. The Government of Malta also identifies Republic Day among the country’s national holidays.[1][2]
The date marks a change in Malta’s constitutional status. On 13 December 1974, Malta revised its constitution and became a republic, with Sir Anthony Mamo serving as its first president. Independence Day, observed on 21 September, marks a different milestone in Malta’s history.[1][3]
How Malta marks the day
Republic Day observances have included a ceremonial parade by the Armed Forces of Malta in St George’s Square, Valletta; an investiture and medal ceremony at the Grand Master’s Palace; and a wreath-laying by the President at the Republic monument in Marsa. The Government has also described public attendance at the Valletta ceremony. These are examples of official commemorations, and specific programmes can vary.[1]
The National Flag is flown on public buildings on national holidays.[2]
Work, services and planning
The Department for Industrial and Employment Relations lists Republic Day as one of Malta’s national holidays and says there are fourteen paid holidays in a year. Pay and time-off arrangements when someone works on a public holiday, or when it falls on a day off, depend on the applicable Wage Regulation Order. That means the employment entitlement is not necessarily the same for every worker.[2][4]
Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Check opening hours and service notices before visiting banks, shops or using transport. Those attending official events in Valletta should check the published arrangements for that year.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
When is Republic Day in Malta?
Is Republic Day a public holiday?
Where are official Republic Day events held?
Official commemorations have included a parade in St George’s Square and an investiture ceremony at the Grand Master’s Palace, both in Valletta, as well as a wreath-laying at the Republic monument in Marsa. Check the relevant year’s announcement for the programme.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Republic Day in Malta:
- Public Holidays in Malta- Government of Malta
- National Holidays and other Public Holidays (Amendment) Act, 1989- Government of Malta
- Sir Anthony J. Mamo- Government of Malta
- National and Public Holidays- Department for Industrial and Employment Relations, Government of Malta