Lestev A.E. Influence of the knights of the Order of St. John upon the cultural and economic development of Malta

Abstract: This article examines the vector of influence of the knights of the Order of St. John upon cultural and economic development of Malta and Maltese Archipelago. Status of the island before the arrival of the Order is being reviewed. The author demonstrates the process of development of Malta during the ruling of the Order, as well as main changes that turned the poor and struggling from pirate raids island into a pearl of European Christian culture of the Mediterranean world. Among the main changes are the following: growth of population, construction of new cities and ports, development of trade, medicine, and social wellness in general. The conclusion is made about the extensive role of the system of political administration and composition of political elite of the country from the perspective of its cultural and economic development. The knights, who perceived the island as citadel of Christianity and their struggle against the unfaithful, did all possible and necessary for its strengthening and progress.

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