Whereas it is difficult to draw exact parallels between the past and the present, the commonly-held idea that women in Malta have only started working outside the home in recent years is not true.
In 1540, we find Clara Laspatara taking on a man to be her apprentice to instruct him for five years in the art of making swords and decorating them. In the 18th century, when Giuseppa Zippelius from Valletta, found herself an orphan upon the sudden demise of both her parents, she asked the Grand Master to let her keep her father’s tailor shop across from St John’s Church. She argued that she had learned the necessary skills and could continue the work herself.
- Why are you so fascinated by Maltese history?
You might be drawn to the stories and experiences of those who came before us, and living in such a history-rich homeland as Malta, it’s no wonder you’re eager to find out more.
History is as exciting, if not more so, than any moving fictional tale. It enables us to see how life now compares with life in olden times. It’s a way to connect meaningfully and powerfully as people.
- How can you gain a deeper understanding of Maltese history?
