The paper shows the results of geomorphological and engineering-geological investigations
carried out along the north-western coast of the Island of Malta, with special emphasis on
landslides. Field surveys and aerial-photo interpretation allowed the recognition, identification
and mapping of a series of landslides of different type and size, some of which showing
evidence of activity. Coastal instability in the studied area is deeply controlled by structural
factors, such as tectonic and stratigraphic ones. The research envisaged a multidisciplinary
approach, which also included landslide monitoring in specific sites which were selected for
detailed investigations, owing to the peculiarity of the instability processes occurring and for
the related hazard and risk conditions. The paper outlines the research phases and the results
achieved which proved to be fruitful thanks to the application of different methodologies
for the study of coastal landslides. Particular attention has been paid to rock spreading
phenomena, which are widespread along the north-western coast of Malta due to the
superimposition of limestones over clayey terrains.
