Malta Limestone

Most of the houses in Malta are built from limestone, of which there seems to be quite an abundance in Maltese quarries. Centuries old Baroque churches, palaces and vintage old houses were all built from limestone. Much carving is also done to create beautiful and ornate coat-of-arms and crests as these two photos show. They are usually added above the main entrance of a house or any historic building. Limestone is soft and easy to carve, though strong and durable. Many quarries are still being used in various areas. 

Recently concrete and steel structures have become a common addition to homes and buildings, but the presence of limestone as well as hints of rubble wall is a must in every structure, as seen in the third photo.