Due to its position as a trading post in the Mediterranean and its long history of being conquered by foreign nations (or in the case of the Order of St. John – multinational organizations), Maltese cuisine has been heavily influenced by foreign cuisines. Most foods and ingredients have to be imported anyways. As a result, a happy melange of Italian (Sicilian), Middle Eastern and English and many other dishes can be found at the Maltese Islands. Rabbit plays an important role as a local meat ingredient as well as a special type of sausage and cheese from Gozo.