Malta has a history of family names. These surnames date back long before the Knights of St. John landed here and yet, family names have changed little over the last 1000 years. In fact, Malta produces an annual list of the most popular family names, which you may recognise in the UK, Australia, Canada and even Portugal! The family names are unique and intrinsic to the fabric of Malta. Not surprisingly, there aren't that many family names to choose from compared to the rest of the world.