Two of the world's oldest martial arts schools united on stage for the first time this weekend in three jaw-dropping shows that fascinated audiences with the performers' almost superhuman physical skills.

The Shaolin monks from China, who have already been in Malta, united with the Kalari fighters from India for the show called the Holy Mountain.

The monks, who have trained their minds in such a way as to take complete control of their body, were joined by the Kalari fighters, who practise Kalaripayattu, considered one of the oldest existing martial art forms.

Dating back more than 2,000 years, Kalaripayattu is said to be the forerunner of the more popular Chinese martial arts, as Buddhist monk Bodhidharma took this knowledge from India to China.

Together, the two schools displayed spectacular stunts that have to be seen to be believed, with contorted bodies exercising immense strength and control.

The shows were held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta but martial artists also had the opportunity to be trained by the Shaolin monks during a master class open to the public yesterday.