Imagine this: it’s April 5, 2026, and the sun is setting over the Grand Harbour. The usual hum of Valletta’s streets is replaced by a symphony of laughter and chatter. Thousands of Maltese and tourists alike are gathered, not for a festival or a concert, but for something entirely different – a national treasure hunt.

The Concept: Il-Beżżul Bieżel

Il-Beżżul Bieżel, or ‘The Big Hunt’ in Maltese, was an idea born out of a brainstorming session at the Malta Tourism Authority. The aim? To create a unique, immersive event that celebrates Malta’s rich history, culture, and community spirit. Little did they know, it would become an annual phenomenon.

Here’s how it works: participants form teams, download a special app, and set off on a city-wide scavenger hunt. Clues are hidden in historical sites, cultural hotspots, and even local businesses. Solve a riddle, find the clue, and move on to the next one. The first team to find all the clues and reach the final location wins a grand prize.

April 5, 2026: The Big Day

April 5, 2026, marks the sixth edition of Il-Beżżul Bieżel. Teams have been preparing for months, studying Maltese history, and brushing up on their local knowledge. The atmosphere is electric. The starting point? The iconic Triton Fountain in City Gate, Valletta.

As the clock strikes 4 PM, the app comes alive with the first clue. Teams huddle over their phones, deciphering riddles that lead them to sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and even the quaint streets of Mdina. Each location tells a story, and teams race against time to solve the clues and uncover Malta’s secrets.

The Aftermath

As the sun sets, the final teams reach their destination – the historic Fort St. Elmo. The winners, a local team named ‘The History Buffs’, are announced to cheers and applause. But the real victory is Malta’s. Il-Beżżul Bieżel has once again brought the community together, celebrating our shared history and creating lasting memories.

As I walk home along the bustling Republic Street, I can’t help but smile. Tomorrow, life will return to normal. But for now, Valletta is alive with the spirit of Il-Beżżul Bieżel. And I, like everyone else, can’t wait for next year.