History & Culture

Neolithic people settled in Gozo around 5000 BC.
In 3600 BC the famous Ġgantija Temples, the Maltese Islands most impressive temples, were built. They are the oldest human built structure in the world, even older than the Pyramids (2800 BC) and Stonehenge (2400 BC). They are located in the attractive town of Xagħra.

Also worth a visit in Xagħra are Xerri’s and Ninu’s Grotto, which are filled with stalactites and stalagmites. 

At the outskirts of the town lies the historic cave of the nymph Calypso who, according to Homer, lured the stranded Odysseus to stay with her for seven years. From here you have a fantastic view over the stunning Ramla beach with its undulating sand dunes.

The island’s first urban settlement, the Citadel in Gozo’s capital Victoria (formally known as Rabat) dates back to the Romans. Within the walls of the island’s most significant landmark are a cathedral, a few small museums and the ramparts of the fortifications that offer all round stunning views of Gozo.

Located in the town of Xewkija is the 5th largest Dome in the world, the impressive church  ‘St. John the Baptist ’. Near Gozo’s oldest village Għarb, you find the renowned pilgrims Basilica of ‘Ta Pinu’, which is connected with mystical miracles and holy apparition.

Situated in Dwejra is Gozo’s most beautiful landscape. The main attraction is the famous Azure Window, a natural window created by the waves pounding into the cliffs. A short walk down from here lays the Inland Sea, a land-locked seawater lake connected to the Mediterranean via a tunnel through imposing cliffs. Fishermen offer a boat trip through the tunnel and past the Azure Window.