Sir Walter Scott's tablet in Valletta

Abstract

Throughout the centuries many were the illustrious personalities who visited Malta; these include kings and queens, governors, politicians, and men-of-letters. In the early nineteenth century it was common custom that men-of-letters embarked on a Mediterranean cruise to afford them the opportunity to gather material for future literary works. And Malta, geographically situated in the heart of the Middle Sea, was often included in the itinerary. By way of example one could mention prominent English writers like Benjamin Disraeli, William Thackeray and Lord Byron who had made a stop in Malta whilst on a Mediterranean tour. Yet another famous English literary figure to reach our shores was Sir Walter Scott. He was in Malta less than a year before his death and at a time when he had already reached "the height and intensity of his popularity".