Birkirkara (abbreviated as B'Kara or BKR) is a city in the Eastern Region of Malta. It is the second most populous on the island, with 29,482 inhabitants as of August 2025. The town consists of five autonomous parishes: Saint Helen, Saint Joseph the Worker, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Saint Mary and San Gorg Preca. The city's motto is In hoc signo vinces, and its coat of arms is a plain red cross, surmounted by a crown.
The population of Birkirkara was 29,026 in July 2024. This included 15,446 males and 13,580 females; 20,413 Maltese nationals and 8,613 foreign nationals.
Etymology
thumb|Valley road,
Birkirkara means "cold water" or "running water". This is attributed to the valley in the town.
Originally, the name was written as Birchircara, as influenced by Italian spelling which traditionally does not use the letter 'K'. It is often abbreviated as B'kara/Kara.
Geography
Birkirkara is situated in a valley, which is most likely where it gets its name from. It is known for flooding on heavy stormy days. Several projects have been proposed. The area has also received embellishment works from time to time.
Climate
Birkirkara features a Csa Mediterranean climate under the Köppen climate classification. Birkirkara features mild, wet winters and dry hot summers. The city's temperature varies from during the course of a year.