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GOZO
Gozo, also popularly called The Island of Calypso, is a nickname originating from the Greek mythological location of Ogygia referred to in Homer's Odyssey. In this epic poem, the fabled island was controlled by the nymph Calypso, who had detained the Greek hero Odysseus for seven long years as prisoner of love. Gozo, which in Maltese is called Għawdex (pronounced: Awdesh), is a derivation of other older names such as Gaulos. It is the second largest Island of the Maltese Archipelago and has an area of about 67.078 square km with 43 km of coast.
Inspired by the mysterious and yet
superbly skilful megalithic builders of the temples of
Ggantija, the Gozitans have adopted and perfected
their building tradition. Thus, Gozitan architects and
stonemasons have, over the years, laboriously built
churches with domes whose stunning dimensions dwarf
the villages in which they stand.
The capital Victoria lies on the centre of the island. It boasts the dominant Citadel, two splendid churches, namely St. George’s Basilica and the Cathedral dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, several small churches and monasteries, two opera houses and various urban commercial outlets. Surrounding Victoria, are Gozo's thirteen villages, which are: San Lawrenz, Għarb, Għasri, Xagħra, Munxar, Sannat, Fontana, Kerċem, Żebbuġ, Xewkija, Nadur, Għajnsielem and Qala.
The Citadel is one of the most beautiful architectural complexes on the Islands. Behind its austere bastions the Citadel hides a number of fine buildings, museums and the Cathedral.
Villages in Gozo reflect a way of life simultaneously rural and refined with superbly proportioned squares and carved balconies. From the old traditional farmhouses with their typical archways to the most contemporary houses, the incredible amount of architectural detail is surprising in its creativity. Balconies are embellished with balustrades, flowerpots, Georgian style facades, roof gardens and bougainvillea.
The countryside is recognised by its rubble walls and the prickly pear hedges peeping over or bordering terraced fields. Green hills and fertile valleys separate one village from the other. Wherever you look, the sea is always within the reach of the eye. In fact, Gozo has an amazing coastline with its tiny creeks, sand beaches, blue sea, majestic rock formations and protruding watchtowers. Low lying coastal stretches of limestone, are chequered with saltpans while high and dramatic cliffs trigger awesome emotions with their native blend of salty air and wild herbs.
At the foot of the cliffs at Dwejra, the Azure Window is the superb companion to another interesting landmark Fungus Rock upon which, recorded since the times of the Knights of St. John, grows a very unique type of fungus with alleged therapeutic properties. Close by, the Inland Sea provides a wonderful opportunity for a boat trip with a difference. |
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On the opposite side of the Island, look out for the unforgettable view from Calypso cave overlooking the beautiful and distinguished red sands of Ramla Bay. Also for those who would not miss a chance for a swim, a short stroll, or just to relax, the crystal clear waters of Marsalforn and Xlendi bays beckon the visitor's appeal. Furthermore, Marsalforn and Xlendi together with Mgarr Harbour are Gozo's main fishing villages. Being an island, the fishing industry has been cared for since generations. No wonder that there is no bay, which does not shelter a variety of fishing boats and with several boathouses for their maintenance.
The traditional fishing boat is the colourful luzzu with its normally blue bulwark and with the eye of Osiris on white, red or brownish background on the prow. Especially when its calm, the reflection left by berthed fishing boats on the water inspires a lot of artists' imagination. Most nostalgic is also the scene of vessels leaving harbour at early dawn, or while returning at sunset. The image of luzzijiet with their bows skimming through the calm blue water, leaving behind streams of silver ripples is simply unforgettable. Their day's catch is, apart from any romanticism, obviously the toiling fisherman's most important aspect of his trade.
Gozo could be reached in two ways; either by Ferry or by Helicopter. The most common is the Ferry service between Mgarr harbour in Gozo and Cirkewwa Harbour in Malta, with a basically roll-on/roll-off schedule. However, especially for those who arrive from the Malta International Airport, there is a convenient Helicopter Services operating between the Airport and the Gozo Heliport and vice-versa. |
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COMINO
The tiny isle of Comino, only 3.5 sq. km, is the perfect hideaway. Named after the cumin herb once grown here, Comino is the perfect retreat - carefree and car-free. Comino has been put to different uses over the centuries by the Islands' various rulers. It was inhabited in the Roman period, but did not have much significance until the Knights arrived. In medieval times, it was haunt for marauding pirates. Under the Knights, it then had a dual role as a hunting and recreational ground and as a staging post in the defence of the Islands. They also used it for agricultural purposes and salt harvesting. The Islands' main attraction today is the Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet of shimmering aquamarine water. It is a popular day trip for cruises. The Lagoon and the isle's other bays with their crystal clear waters make Comino the ideal choice for most kinds of water sports, especially diving and snorkelling. Comino is worth a visit all year round. In winter, it is ideal for walkers and photographers. With the clear warm seas, water sports enthusiasts will find Comino's two beach hotels offer a full range of amenities.
The Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet of shimmering aquamarine water, is the main attraction on the tiny island of Comino. It is a popular day trip for cruises. The Lagoon and the isle's other bays with their crystal clear waters make Comino the ideal choice for most kinds of water sports, especially diving and snorkelling. Comino is worth a visit all year round. In winter, it is ideal for walkers and photographers. With the clear warm seas, water sports enthusiasts will find Comino's two beach hotels offer a full range of amenities.
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Links to Maltese Cities and Towns
Sliema, ST. Julian’s and Paceville Mdina, Rabat, Mosta, Ta Qali and Dingli Three Cities – Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua Bugibba, Qawra and St. Paul’s Bay Fishing Villages – Marsaxlokk, Marsascala and Birzebbugia |
