Village of Balzan

Balzan, known as Ħal Balzan in Maltese, is a municipality in the Central Region of Malta, forming one of the three villages along with Attard and Lija. Its history dates back to the early 15th century when the first dwellers arrived. By 1575, there were 60 dwellings with around 500 residents, including townhouses and farms.

In 1646, households increased to 140, but the population only reached 584. Balzan gained independence from the neighboring village of Birkirkara in 1655 when it established its parish church, though the population decreased to 530.

Throughout its history, Balzan faced population fluctuations, notably during the war when an influx of refugees increased the population. Some believe the village inherited its name from a Sicilian family called Balzan, while others suggest it refers to a Sicilian tax collector named 'balzari.'

Key milestones include Balzan becoming a separate parish on August 14, 1655, with the construction of a new church beginning in 1669. The completed church, dedicated to the Annunciation of Our Lady, was blessed in 1695.

In 1868, the church received its titular statue by Master Salvu Dimech, and in 1890, the Annunciation Philharmonic Society was formed.

Tragedy struck on October 22, 1903, when an explosion during fireworks production resulted in six deaths and 42 injuries.

In 1920, the SL Gabriel Band Club was established, and in 1954, Queen Elizabeth II visited Balzan.

The village feast was moved to summer in 1965 due to harsh weather conditions in March.

Balzan's museum was founded in 1923, and during World War II, the village housed refugees, doubling its population.

In 1948, the parish church received a big bell, and in 1965, Prime Minister G Borg Olivier visited on the 75th anniversary of the Annunciation Philharmonic Society.

Balzan's local council was formed in 1993, and on October 16, 1994, the Balzan Youth Centre was established.