Today, under the stewardship of Sophie and Rowley Edwards, its colourful earthenware continues to be made and painted by hand, drawing inspiration from the island's flora and fauna. And right next door to the pottery, you'll find a family-owned restaurant that has become one of the island's most charming lunch spots.
Here, Sophie whisks us off on a whistle-stop tour of all her favourite Maltese addresses.
For someone who's never been to Malta before: what's the very first place you'd take them?
The sea. Malta's water is so deep, clear and impossibly beautiful. My favourite thing is swimming off the rocks somewhere quiet where there is no one else around, with a picnic packed for afterwards.
If you only had one day in Malta and could only show someone three places, where would you take them – morning, afternoon and evening?
Morning in Valletta, wandering the streets, admiring the architecture and stopping for coffee. Lunch at The Villa Bologna Restaurant, with a visit to the pottery. And a dip in the sea.
Complete this sentence: ‘If you only see one thing in Malta, make it…’
Again, it has to be the sea, especially from the rocks at golden hour, when the water is completely still and the light is beautiful.
What’s your favourite place in Malta that most visitors don’t know about – but absolutely should?
The painters and makers at Villa Bologna Pottery. Every piece is handmade and hand-painted, and you can see that human touch in the finished work.
Which three shops in Malta do you always find an excuse to visit?
The gold shops in Valletta, my favourite is Frank Zampa Jewellery. Handmade lace in the market in Gozo, and of course Villa Bologna Pottery.
Where do you go for a really good lunch and what do you order?
Either The Villa Bologna Restaurant for lunch under the citrus trees in the garden of the Baroque villa, eating sea bass with fennel followed by tiramisu, or Trabuxu Bistro for a glass of wine and a plate of pasta.
You’re splashing out on a hotel: where do you go?
Casa Bonavita. It is an incredibly beautiful 18th-century architectural jewel in the heart of Attard, with elegant rooms, delicious food, a spa and a very calm, understated atmosphere. It is just opening now, which makes it feel even more special.
And for a pampering/wellness fix?
The spa at The Verdala Wellness Hotel. It feels very peaceful and removed from everything, which is exactly what you want from a proper wellness escape.
What about for a great coffee/tea fix?
Always LOT SIXTY ONE in Valletta for great coffee.
Favourite local florist?
I love the flower trucks parked outside the cemeteries. They always have the freshest flowers, and something pretty to choose from.
Where do you go when you’re celebrating?
Out in Valletta, usually starting – and ending – at The Gin Bar.
And for a proper culture fix?
Malta is full of beautiful architecture, culture and historical sites. I love wandering through Valletta, visiting Grandmaster's Palace, St John's Co-Cathedral to see Caravaggio's masterpiece, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. There is so much history here, layered through every period and everywhere you look.
Where do you go when you need a big view?
Dingli Cliffs. The walks there are spectacular, especially in spring when everything is full of wild flowers and the views feel endless.
Villa Bologna Pottery
What is Villa Bologna Pottery?
Villa Bologna Pottery is Malta's oldest working pottery. Founded in 1924, it is known for its hand-painted ceramics, which are still made and decorated by hand using traditional techniques.
Where is Villa Bologna Pottery located?
Villa Bologna Pottery is located within the historic Villa Bologna estate in Attard, in central Malta.
What is the best area to stay in Malta for a first visit?
Valletta is an excellent base for first-time visitors thanks to its beautiful architecture, cultural attractions, restaurants and easy access to the rest of the island.
What are Malta's most beautiful natural attractions?
Many visitors cite the island's crystal-clear sea, rocky swimming spots and the dramatic Dingli Cliffs among Malta's most spectacular natural sights.
Is Malta good for food lovers?
Yes. Malta has a thriving food scene that blends Mediterranean influences with local traditions, from fresh seafood and pasta to excellent wine bars and family-run restaurants.
When is the best time to visit Malta?
Spring and early autumn are often considered the best times to visit, when temperatures are warm, the sea is inviting and the island is less crowded than at the height of summer.
What should visitors not miss in Valletta?
Highlights include St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, the city’s Baroque architecture and its lively café and restaurant scene.
