The rural village of Dingli is mourning the loss of Ġużeppi Muscat, one of Malta’s last traditional shepherds. Muscat passed away on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy as a devoted herdsman and iconic figure in Malta’s rural landscape.
A Life Dedicated to the Land and Animals
Muscat shared his love for his work in a 2020 interview: “This is my work, but it’s also my passion… I love these animals. Here, on the Dingli cliffs, it’s peaceful and quiet. I wouldn’t change this for anything else in the world.” His connection to the land and animals was deeply rooted in his family heritage.
Legacy and Tributes
Tributes have poured in for Muscat, with Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg paying tribute on Facebook: “Ħad-Dingli and the cliffs won’t be the same without you. Rest in peace, my friend.” Muscat’s legacy extends beyond his family and community, embodying the values of traditional Maltese rural life. His story serves as a reminder to preserve Malta’s cultural heritage and support traditional industries.
