Robert Sammut composer of the National Anthem L-Innu Malti was born in Floriana on the 17th October 1869. He was a doctor by profession, having studied at the University of Malta from where he graduated in medicine. He followed post graduate studies in Edinburgh University, where he graduated M.B. and Ch.M. and also obtained a medal for the exceptional ability in anatomy. On his return to Malta he was appointed professor of pathology and Bacteriology at the Royal University of Malta.
 
Sammut played with an amateur orchestra and wrote the music for a hymn to be performed by it. The King's Own Band of Valletta took up this music and Dun Karm Psaila, the National Poet, set later lyrics to it.
 
This was the genesis of the national anthem, which was first performed as such in public at the Manoel Theatre in 1922. Sammut died in Sliema on the 26th May 1934.