Artisanal Italian Pasta from the Heart of Marsaxlokk
Tal‑Kastell Żgħir is an artisanal Italian pasta brand based in Marsaxlokk, Malta. We produce pasta in small batches, using traditional methods, simple ingredients, and a deep respect for Italian culinary heritage.
First of all, pasta making is an art. Some shapes are made by hand, others with traditional tools, and some with small artisanal machines. However, at Tal‑Kastell Żgħir, every method follows the same philosophy: patience, precision, and respect for tradition.
As a result, every batch reflects the flavours and memories of family kitchens, Sunday lunches, and the timeless ritual of turning simple ingredients into something nourishing and beautiful.
Moreover, we work only with carefully selected flours to guarantee excellent texture and flavour. For this reason, our pasta includes both classic shapes and rare regional specialties that are difficult to find in Malta.
If you are visiting the Sunday market in Marsaxlokk or organising a special event, please feel free to contact us. We are just a short walk from the market. Therefore, you can collect fresh or dried pasta by pre‑order or directly from available stock in our 🛒 Shop.
Our Story
My story with pasta started in childhood. As a result, I often helped my two grandmothers — one from Sicily and the other from Basilicata — prepare fresh pasta at home.
At that time, fresh pasta was never everyday food. Instead, it was reserved for celebrations and especially for Sunday lunch. On those days, the whole family gathered around a long table. Grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins all shared a meal made with simple ingredients and a lot of love.
Because of these memories, Tal‑Kastell Żgħir was born.
Today, our mission is clear. We want to bring back the tradition of Sunday lunch and the joy of eating together. Through genuine, handcrafted pasta, we aim to share those warm moments with anyone who brings our products to the table.
The Meaning Behind the Name
Tal‑Kastell Żgħir is more than a brand name.
In fact, it is the Maltese translation of my surname, Castelluccio, which means “Little Castle.” For this reason, the name creates a bridge between my Italian roots and Malta.
Malta has been home to my family since 2013. Moreover, it is the place where our tradition of handmade pasta continues, batch after batch, just as it did with our nonne.
Crafted with Care, Inspired by Tradition
Whether we create a well‑known shape or a rare regional specialty, every pasta reflects centuries of Italian tradition combined with Mediterranean influence.
As a result, this is pasta with character. It is meant to be enjoyed slowly, shared generously, and remembered fondly.
Ingredients
Our pasta uses only two essential ingredients:
- Coarse durum wheat semolina
- Water
Depending on the recipe or request, we may also add eggs and/or natural colouring. Therefore, we sell our pasta as fresh or dried, based on the specific shape and its intended use.
Pasta Shapes
Currently, we offer the following shapes:
- Radiatori
- Gigli / Campanelle
- Amori Cellentani
- Funghi
- Paccheri Lisci
- Maccheroni Siciliani
- Maccheroni Rigati
- Bigoli
- Chitarra / Tonnarelli
- Capelli d’Angelo
- Gnocchetti Sardi
- Ricci
- Conchiglie
- Fusilli
- Lasagne (with eggs)
- Tagliolini (with eggs)
- Fettuccine (with eggs)
Made for Your Table
Tal‑Kastell Żgħir pasta works perfectly for everyday meals and special occasions. Because of its structure and texture, it pairs well with rich ragù, delicate cream sauces, and even simple olive oil and herbs.
For this reason, we invite you to explore our selection, discover new shapes, and enjoy authentic artisanal pasta made with care and intention.
Lovingly Produced in Malta by Sergio Castelluccio (Baking With Theory)
Tal‑Kastell Żgħir is not an industrial production line. Instead, it is a personal craft proudly Made in Malta by Sergio Castelluccio (Baking With Theory) which is registered in the Malta Crafts Register as a Craftperson:
https://craftsregister.gov.mt/craftsperson/DPO590
The activity is regolarly registered with Food Safety & Security Authority (FSSA) as Malta Home-Based Food Production.
Every piece of pasta leaves our kitchen only after careful attention, patience, and respect for the ingredients. In short, this is true artisanal pasta — where hands, heart, and heritage come together.
For any enquiries or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Finally, we invite you to follow Baking With Theory on our social media channels on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram to stay updated with new products and behind‑the‑scenes content.