Malta’s Hidden Natural Wonders: 15 Stunning Photos Compete for Global Photography Prize

**In photos: 15 images of Malta’s natural beauty in running for global prize**

Fifteen stunning photographs showcasing Malta’s raw natural beauty have made it to the shortlist of an international photography competition, putting the islands’ hidden gems in the global spotlight. From the dramatic cliffs of Gozo to the crystal-clear waters of Comino, these images capture Malta’s landscapes in ways that even many locals have never seen before.

The photographs, selected from over 50,000 entries worldwide, represent Malta in the Nature category of the prestigious World Photography Awards. What’s particularly striking is that seven of the fifteen images were captured by local photographers – a testament to the growing talent within Malta’s photography community.

“These aren’t your typical tourist postcard shots,” explains David Azzopardi, one of the Maltese photographers whose work made the shortlist. His image of the Azure Window’s remaining rocks, shot during a stormy sunset, has garnered particular attention online. “I wanted to show Malta’s resilience, how even after losing our iconic landmark, the natural beauty endures.”

The selected photographs span all seasons, revealing Malta’s dramatic transformation throughout the year. Winter storms battering Dingli Cliffs, spring wildflowers carpeting the Mellieħa countryside, and the golden hour illuminating Marsaxlokk’s traditional fishing boats all feature prominently. One particularly striking image captures the bioluminescent plankton phenomenon that occasionally graces Malta’s shores – a rare sight that many locals have never witnessed.

For Malta’s tourism industry, this global recognition couldn’t have come at a better time. After two challenging years for travel, these images are already generating significant international interest. The Malta Tourism Authority reports a 40% increase in website traffic since the shortlisted photographs were announced, with particular interest from nature photographers and hiking enthusiasts planning specialist trips.

“The timing is perfect,” says MTA representative Maria Spiteri. “These authentic, untouched landscapes show a different side of Malta that contrasts beautifully with our sun-and-sea reputation. It’s attracting exactly the kind of sustainable tourism we’re trying to encourage.”

Local environmental groups see this as an opportunity to highlight conservation efforts. The images have sparked renewed discussions about protecting Malta’s natural heritage, particularly areas like the Majjistral Nature Park and Wied il-Mielaħ Valley, which feature in several photographs.

“We’re seeing increased community engagement,” notes Arnold Sciberras from Nature Trust Malta. “When people see these beautiful images, they want to know how they can help preserve these places. It’s creating a new generation of environmental advocates.”

The photographers themselves have become unlikely ambassadors for Malta’s hidden natural treasures. Many have started organising small-group photography tours, sharing their favorite spots while educating participants about responsible photography practices. These tours are particularly popular with Maltese residents rediscovering their own islands.

“I’ve lived here all my life, but these photographers showed me places I never knew existed,” says Rabat resident Claire Zammit, who joined a recent tour. “It completely changed how I see Malta.”

The winning photographs will be announced next month at a ceremony in London, but regardless of the outcome, Malta has already won significant international exposure. The images have been featured in major publications worldwide, from National Geographic to The Guardian, introducing global audiences to Malta’s natural diversity.

As climate change threatens coastal landscapes worldwide, these photographs serve as both celebration and documentation of Malta’s natural heritage. They remind us that beyond the historic cities and bustling beaches lie wild, untamed spaces that define the islands’ soul.

For a nation often defined by its built heritage, this recognition of Malta’s natural beauty offers a refreshing perspective. These fifteen images don’t just showcase pretty landscapes – they tell the story of an island nation where nature and culture intertwine in extraordinary ways, waiting to be discovered by those willing to look beyond the obvious.