What is Mdina Glass and when was it founded?

Mdina Glass is a glassmaking company based in Malta, founded in 1968. It was set up by English glass designer Michael Harris, who had worked with British studio glass before moving to the island. The factory was established near the historic city of Mdina, which influenced the company’s name. Early production focused on handmade decorative glass pieces such as vases, bowls, and paperweights. Each item was created using traditional free-blowing techniques, with no moulds, which meant no two pieces were identical. During its first decade, the company gained attention from tourists visiting Malta, with thousands of pieces sold annually. By the mid-1970s, Mdina Glass had become one of Malta’s best-known craft exports. After Harris left in 1972, local craftsmen continued production, keeping many of the original styles. Today, Mdina Glass remains active, producing collectible glassware that often reflects Mediterranean colours such as sea blue, sand, and amber tones.