Tomb Raider: In Real Life
A Maltese Voyage...
I first visited Malta in 2012, with the intention of exploring the many megalithic sites I'd read about - some of the oldest in Europe. And apparently built by giant's who roamed the islands in another time. I was not disappointed. Although Malta is tiny (it could fit into Northern Ireland's Lough Neagh), it has the uncanny ability to blend the Mediterranean lifestyle with a sense of Britishness whilst evoking Roman, Arabic and Italian vibes, together with a cosmopolitan population. It's a captivating mix for someone who enjoys travel and ancient history.
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The entire capital city of Valletta is a World Heritage Site. And with its Grand Harbour, Baroque style architecture and many narrow streets filled with piazzas, churches and palaces, it's certainly deserving. The islands present many other gems, from warm blue waters with grottos and caves to a range of temples, including Gozo's Ä gantija, the Tarxien complex and the otherworldly Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni. And not forgetting the impressive fortified city of Mdina. Indeed, if Malta doesn't feature in a future Tomb Raider game I'll be both surprised and disappointed.
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For the music, I've chosen my favourite piece from Tomb Raider 3, The Puzzle Element, as performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - for the islands certainly do present mysteries to be solved.
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