Maltese Glass Guide

The story of Maltese glass begins in 1968, a pivotal year for the nation. Just four years after gaining independence from the United Kingdom, Malta was actively building its new identity and economy. The government offered strategic incentives, including a 10-year tax holiday, to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs who could help develop the island's industrial and commercial sectors. It was into this fertile landscape that Michael Harris, a lecturer in industrial glass design at the Royal College of Art, arrived with his colleague Eric Dobson. They established what was initially called Maltese Glass Industries, which would soon be renamed Mdina Glass. Their venture was Malta's very first glassware manufacturer, a bold statement of artistic ambition in a country finding its feet. The timing proved fortuitous, and the company was an instant success, laying the foundation for an entirely new Maltese craft.

From its earliest days, Mdina Glass committed to nurturing local talent. Harris and Dobson quickly began training Maltese nationals in the intricate craft of glassmaking. By the time the firm became established, it employed around 15 people. Among these early trainees was Joseph Said, whose natural abilities in glassmaking quickly set him apart. Said demonstrated such exceptional skill and dedication that he rose through the ranks with remarkable speed. By 1975, just seven years after joining as a trainee, he had become the company's Production Manager. His ascent marked a significant shift, as local talent began to take a leading role in shaping the company's direction and ensuring its place within Malta's developing artistic landscape. This transition from foreign-led to locally managed would prove crucial for the company's resilience and future growth.

In 1971, Mdina Glass's artistic horizons expanded dramatically with the arrival of two Italian maestros: Vincente and Ettore Boffo. This father-and-son team brought with them sophisticated Italian glassmaking techniques, enriching the company's existing knowledge and introducing new artistic possibilities. Their influence elevated the craft, allowing Maltese artisans to work with greater complexity and artistry. This period of evolution continued with a change in leadership in 1973 when Michael Harris left the company for personal reasons, leaving Eric Dobson in sole control. The introduction of Italian methods, combined with the growing expertise of local staff like Joseph Said, created a unique fusion of styles. This blend of British design principles, Italian technical mastery, and Maltese ingenuity would become the hallmark of Mdina Glass's distinctive aesthetic.

The story of Mdina Glass took a decisive turn in 1985. Facing challenging commercial times, Eric Dobson relinquished control and returned to the UK. This moment of transition placed Joseph Said firmly at the helm of the company. Said, who had risen from trainee to Production Manager, implemented significant changes to navigate the difficulties and ensure the company's survival. His leadership steered Mdina Glass through a period of consolidation and renewal. The 1990s brought a further evolution in technique and product range. In 1990, the company introduced lampworking techniques to Malta, and by 1995, its artisans were mastering fusion techniques to create an entirely new range of products. These innovations, driven by Said's leadership, secured Mdina Glass's reputation as a forward-thinking craft enterprise.

Today, Mdina Glass stands as a thriving family enterprise, with Joseph Said's children—Olivia, Nevise, Pamela, and Alan—forming an integral part of the company. Olivia Said now serves as Production and Product Design Manager, ensuring a seamless continuation of her father's vision and the company's high standards. The company has grown to employ around 50 people, including skilled glassmakers, sales staff, and administrators. Its reputation has reached international heights, marked by participation in an exhibition at Harrods in London in 2012 and winning the National Artisan Award over two consecutive years. This success story is a testament to how a craft enterprise, born from foreign vision and nurtured by local talent, can become an integral part of Malta's cultural and industrial identity, blending heritage with contemporary design.

For visitors from the UK, experiencing Maltese glass is not just about purchasing a souvenir; it's about witnessing the artistry firsthand. The primary destination is Mdina Glass, whose workshop stands as a distinctive attraction. Located just outside the ancient city walls, the studio offers the opportunity to watch skilled artisans perform the glassblowing process. You will hear the sharp hiss of the furnace, feel the radiant heat from the molten glass, and see the breath-taking transformation of a simple blob of silica into a delicate form. The demonstrations bring this ancient craft to life in a way that photographs and videos cannot capture. This immersive experience provides a genuine insight into the remarkable skill and concentration required to create each piece, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Malta for those interested in authentic craft and cultural heritage.

Beyond the workshop experience, Malta offers several destinations for those seeking to purchase authentic Maltese glass. Mdina Glass itself has a showroom where visitors can buy pieces crafted on-site. For a wider selection, Malta Glass Creations provides an opportunity to explore a range of locally made glass items. Located in the Villaġġ tal-Artiġjanat Ta' Qali in Ħ'Attard, this venue is part of an artisan village that immerses visitors in Malta's craft heritage. Nearby, in the same convenient location, you will also find Phoenician Glassblowers, giving tourists multiple options to explore Maltese glass traditions in one place. This village setting allows you to not only select a unique, handcrafted souvenir but also to appreciate the cultural and historical context behind each piece, ensuring that what you take home is more than just an object—it's a story.