The Malta Tramways Ltd.began operations in 1905, at a time when the Island was under British rule and urban areas such as Valletta and Floriana were rapidly growing. Increasing commercial activity between the capital and surrounding towns had created a need for a reliable, modern transport system. Although the system lasted for just twenty-four years, it remains an intriguing chapter in Malta's transport history as an early attempt to modernise mobility on the Island.
The project was promoted by a private British company that secured a concession from the colonial government. Considerable investment was required to lay rails, construct power infrastructure and import electric tramcars from Great Britain. Planning the routes was challenging due to Malta's hilly terrain and narrow streets. Nevertheless, the system eventually connected Valletta with towns such as Paola, Cospicua, Zebbug Birkirkara, Hamrun and Qormi, forming a small network that facilitated travel.
Electric trams ran along the main roads, across the central part of the Island. However, the system also experienced several unusual and unfortunate incidents. Mechanical breakdowns were common in the early years trams occasionally struggled with braking or traction especially on steep roads. There were accidents involving horse-drawn carts and elderly pedestrians who were unfamiliar with the new form of transport.
Despite its promise, the Malta Tramways faced persistent financial and operational difficulties. The cost of maintaining tracks and electrical equipment was high, while passenger revenue was insufficient. Post WWI competition from buses and automobiles gradually eroded its usefulness and by 1929 the service was discontinued as it was no longer financially sustainable.
To commemorate the Malta Tramways, MaltaPost will issue a set of three stamps illustrating scenes of the historic tram as it travelled through different parts of Malta. The 0.45 stamp portrays a tram on its return journey to Valletta, about to pass beneath one of the arches of the baroque Portes des Bombes gateway within the Floriana fortifications. The image is based on an original monochrome photo colourised by artist Edgar Vella. The 0.65 stamp depicts two trams travelling along St. Anne Street, the main route linking Floriana with Valletta. This scene is reproduced from an original postcard of the period. The 3.85 stamp features an image derived from an original painting by artist John N. Scerri. It shows the tram as it travels back to Valletta from Birkirkara while passing alongside the arch of the historic Wignacourt Aqueduct.
