Paul Curmi, the most recognisable face of Malta's carnival, has died aged 92.

Born in 1930, the youngest of nine siblings, he was a major presence in Malta's carnival for decades, his cheerful personality entertaining anyone who happened to be close by with his spontaneous dancing and music. 

He inherited his love for carnival from his father and was an active participant for 67 years.

The 2021 Malta Carnival poster.

He featured in the official Carnival poster in 2021.

Known as Pawlu l-Pampalun, Curmi headed several carnival dance companies over the years.  

Tributes quickly poured in on Wednesday morning, notably from various dance companies and carnival participants.  Some described him as the 'father of Malta's carnival' while thanking him for his inimitable entertainment. 

Prime Minister Robert Abela said Curmi's 'enormous contribution' to Maltese culture and carnival would never be forgotten. 'Thank you for the joyful mark you left on the Maltese people' he wrote on Facebook.  

Opposition leader Bernard Grech praised Curmi for his talents and creativity  and said he hoped that the love he instilled for the arts would continue to be sustained. 

Nationalist MP Mario de Marco shared similar thoughts and said heaven was now a happier place.

Entertainer Mark Spiteri Lucas said Curmi was a legend synonymous with Malta's carnival, an excellent artist, dancer and musician and a worthy son of Valletta. 

Paul Curmi was a carnival legend.

Curmi was awarded the Ġieħ il-Belt award by Valletta Council 10 years ago.

Tributes also came from supporters of Valletta football club, many recalling Curmi's presence for football matches at Ta'Qali.

Curmi’s funeral will be held on November 11 at 10am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel church in Valletta.

Beating the drum at Malta Carnival.