Malta closely identifies with three crosses, namely, the controversial George Cross, the Maltese cross and the Christian cross.
The George Cross now features prominently on the Maltese flag and many, rightly, question whether it is the most appropriate symbol to occupy this space. Of the three crosses mentioned, the George Cross is the least appropriate to be on the Maltese flag, by any measure.
Consider, for example, the longevity of each cross in its association with Malta's 7,000-year history of human occupation and the impact on Maltese culture and lives.
The George Cross has been part of Malta's history for 67 years and was introduced to the nation because of the three-year siege of Malta. Although the Maltese resilience during the siege has attracted great admiration from the world and will always occupy a proud chapter in Malta's history, the siege is dwarfed by other events that have impacted on Malta's culture and development. Other than encourage a triumphant attitude by some Maltese, the George Cross has done nothing for the Maltese culture and way of life.
The Maltese cross is really the cross of the small Italian village Amalfi. The Knights of St John of Jerusalem adopted the cross and, because of their long association with Malta, today it is incorrectly referred to as the Maltese cross.
Nevertheless, the length and impact of the knights' 250-year association with Malta is far greater than that of the George Cross. Much of Malta's grand architecture and festive cultural traditions can be attributed to the knights. Yet, in my view, their cross does not deserve to be on the Maltese flag, principally because the knights were unpopular former rulers who, like all of Malta's occupiers, put themselves, rather than the Maltese, first.
The Christian cross was introduced to Malta 2,000 years ago by St Paul, arguably, second to Jesus as the most influential person in Christian history, perhaps world history. Since then, except for a relatively brief aberration during the Arab occupation, Maltese culture, values and morals have been shaped by Christianity and continue to be so. Christianity is fundamental to the spiritual and social lives of the vast majority of Maltese.
Supporters of the George Cross ought to note that neither the Maltese cross nor the Christian cross feature on the national flag, yet, the Maltese are very much aware and proud of the contribution by forces that are represented by these symbols. Perhaps the same will be true of the siege if the George Cross is removed.
In both its longevity of association and impact on culture, the Christian cross is by far the most appropriate cross to feature on the Maltese flag.
However, other sensible suggestions, such as the Neolithic temples, have been offered by readers. Ġgantia prehistoric temple in Gozo is the oldest free-standing buildings in the world and the seated "goddess" from Ħaġar Qim is reputed to be the oldest statue in the world. The Maltese should be immensely proud of these unique possessions .Both are many times more deserving of being on the national flag than the George Cross. But, for me, the Christian cross wins the day.