Comino

Comino (also known as Kemmuna), a picturesque gem nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, stands as the smallest of the three main islands composing the Maltese archipelago. Covering a modest 3.5 square kilometers, this tiny haven boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and tranquil seclusion that draws visitors from around the world. The island's geography is characterized by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, a stark contrast to the bustling urban landscapes of its larger counterparts, Malta and Gozo. Comino is largely uninhabited, with only 2 permanent residents contributing to its serene atmosphere.

One of Comino's most visited attractions is the Blue Lagoon, a mesmerizing area of azure waters nestled between Comino and the islet of Cominotto. The lagoon's shallow depths and crystal-clear clarity create a captivating underwater world, making it a haven for snorkelers and water enthusiasts. The Blue Lagoon's popularity has elevated Comino to a must-visit destination, particularly during the tourist season when eager visitors come to experience the natural wonders of this idyllic spot. While the island may lack a bustling population, it is not devoid of historical significance. St. Mary's Tower, a fortress constructed by the Knights of St. John in the late 17th century, stands as a testament to Comino's strategic importance in the region. This imposing structure was erected to defend the island against the ever-present threat of pirate attacks, providing a glimpse into the historical challenges faced by the Maltese archipelago.

Comino's unique ecosystem, though limited in its vegetation due to the arid climate, plays host to a variety of bird species. Among them, the Mediterranean storm petrel has found a nesting site on the island, contributing to its ecological diversity. Efforts to preserve the island's natural beauty and protect its flora and fauna have become a focal point, aligning with broader conservation initiatives in the region. Accessibility to Comino is primarily facilitated by boat, with regular ferry services & boat trips connecting the island to Malta and Gozo. These ferry routes cater to the influx of day-trippers and tourists eager to explore the island's treasures, especially the famed Blue Lagoon. The island's popularity as a day-trip destination has necessitated a delicate balance between promoting tourism and preserving its fragile ecosystem. Comino's charm extends beyond its well-known attractions; it encapsulates a sense of serenity that captivates the hearts of those who venture to its shores. The island's partially unspoiled landscapes and pristine beaches provide a haven for nature lovers, while its historical landmarks offer a glimpse into the past. As tourism evolves and environmental conservation efforts intensify, Comino continues to enchant visitors with its unique blend of tranquility, natural wonders, and historical intrigue, solidifying its place as a cherished destination within the Maltese archipelago.

Comino, formerly known as Ephaestia, holds a rich history that spans various periods and uses. During Roman times, the island was inhabited by farmers, but throughout its history, it experienced sparse populations, private ownership, and periods of abandonment. Its rugged coastline, marked by sheer limestone cliffs and deep caves, was a popular haunt for pirates and marauders in the Middle Ages, serving as staging posts for raids on boats crossing between Malta and Gozo.

From 1285 to some time after 1290, Comino was the dwelling place of the exiled Jewish prophet and Kabbalist Abraham Abulafia. During his time on the island, Abulafia composed notable works, including ``Sefer ha-Ot`` (The Book of the Sign) and his final piece, ``Imre Shefer`` (Words of Beauty). In later years, the Knights of Malta utilized Comino for hunting and recreation, fiercely guarding the local game. The island became a place of imprisonment for errant knights during the 16th and 17th centuries, and St. Mary's Tower was manned by those convicted of minor crimes. Under French occupation, Comino served as a quarantine area and housed an isolation hospital. The island also functioned as a temporary prison site during this period. In 1889, the British battleship HMS Sultan grounded on an uncharted rock in the Comino Channel, resulting in its sinking.

In the 1920s, the British colonial government leased the island to the Zammit Cutajar family, who established the Comino Farming Company. The island saw cultivation of approximately 162 hectares (400 acres) of land, including various crops, fruit orchards, and snails exported to Italy. The population peaked in the late 1940s at around 80 people, engaged in subsistence farming, fishing, and bird-hunting.

In 1960, controversy arose as the British government granted a 150-year lease of the island to John Gaul, a British property magnate. Initially, the lease required the establishment of a 200-room hotel by 1963, but it was later renegotiated to a smaller area, including the current Comino Hotel at San Niklaw Bay and the bungalows at Santa Marija Bay.

As of 2023, Comino has a mere two permanent residents, reflecting a stark decline from its historical significance and varied uses over the centuries.