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Lunzjata Valley
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Landmark
Lunzjata Valley is one of the most fertile and photogenic valleys on the island of Gozo, stretching between Victoria and Kerċem. Historically, it served as a private hunting ground for the Knights of the Order of St. John during the 17th and 18th centuries. The valley is home to the Chapel of the Annunciation, which was originally founded in 1347 and rebuilt in the 16th century. It features a unique 15th-century irrigation system with stone aqueducts that still carry freshwater from local springs today. This agricultural sanctuary is characterized by dense vegetation, including ancient carob trees and bamboo groves. Its sheltered location provides a microclimate that supports year-round greenery and traditional farming practices. The entrance to the valley is marked by a distinctive gate built during the British period in the 19th century.
- Location: Malta
- Top sights: Lunzjata Valley Belvedere Viewpoint · Saint George's Basilica · Ta' Nikol Art Gallery
- Nearby: Marsalforn (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 67 | 53 | 35 | 17 | 12 | 4 | 10 | 63 | 83 | 92 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Lunzjata Valley is a scenic valley on Gozo that is freely accessible and invites walks. There are no buildings or entry areas - nature is the focus.
Typical hours
The valley is accessible around the clock as it is a free natural area. The best visiting hours are during daylight for safety and visibility.
Photography
Photography in the valley is unrestricted - lush vegetation and ruins provide lovely subjects. Use early morning light for atmospheric shots.
Time needed
A walk through the valley lasts about 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the route. Those who want to explore side valleys should allow more time.
Combine with
Combine the valley with a visit to the nearby Victoria Citadel or the Ġgantija Temples. Ramla Bay valley is also not far.
Getting there
The valley is in northeast Gozo, near Xewkija. By car, reach it via the road to Lunzjata; parking is available along the road.
Insider tip
Visit after a rainy day when streams have water and the landscape is especially green. Insect repellent is recommended, especially in the evening.
Geography
Facts
- The Chapel of the Annunciation within the valley was originally established in 1347.
- The valley served as a private hunting reserve for the Knights of Malta from 1530.
- A sophisticated stone irrigation system dating back to the 15th century is still visible.
- Freshwater springs in the valley have been utilized for agriculture for over 600 years.
- The ornate stone gateway at the valley entrance was constructed in the early 1900s.
- Lunzjata is recognized as a Natura 2000 site due to its unique riparian biodiversity.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lunzjata Valley (10)
Ta' Nikol Art Gallery
Art gallery in Victoria, Gozo, with rotating exhibitions.
🌐 artbyemmanuelprevi.com🕒 Th-Sa 10:00-16:00; Mo 10:00-16:00; We 10:00-16:00
Il-Haġar Gozo Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Victoria, Gozo, showcasing art and culture.
🌐 heartofgozo.org.mt🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00
Gozo 360°
Attraction in Victoria, Gozo, offering a panoramic view.
Citadel Theatre
Theatre in the Citadel of Victoria, Gozo.
ARThall
Contemporary art gallery in Victoria, Gozo.
Church of Saint James
Church building in Victoria on the island of Gozo, Malta.
Citadella Visitor's Centre🏛 museum
Visitor centre in the Citadel of Victoria, Gozo.
Teatru Astra
One of two opera houses in Victoria on the island of Gozo.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Lunzjata Valley?
A fertile valley in Gozo, known for its year-round natural springs.
How do you reach the valley?
It is easily accessible on foot from Victoria or Kerċem.
Are there any historical buildings there?
Yes, there is a small 14th-century chapel at the entrance of the valley.
Is the valley good for hiking?
Yes, it features quiet paths through a lush green landscape.
What is farmed in the valley?
Thanks to the water, a lot of vegetables and fruits are grown here.
Lunzjata Valley: where is it located?
Lunzjata Valley is located in Malta.
Lunzjata Valley: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lunzjata Valley Belvedere Viewpoint, Saint George's Basilica, Ta' Nikol Art Gallery.
Lunzjata Valley: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Lunzjata Valley: why is it worth visiting?
Lunzjata Valley is one of the most fertile and photogenic valleys on the island of Gozo, stretching between Victoria and Kerċem.
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History & landmarks
Nature
Mġarr ix-Xini Valley (Gozo)
A steep-sided valley leading to a secluded bay, used as a filming location for the movie 'By the Sea'.
Tal-Mixta Cave (Gozo)
A cave overlooking Ramla Bay, providing a famous photo spot.
Qammieh Point
A rocky headland with great views towards Ghadira Bay and Gozo.
Coral Lagoon (Malta)
A large sea cave with a collapsed roof, forming a hidden lagoon.
Fomm ir-Riħ Bay
A secluded and hard-to-reach bay with dramatic cliffs and clear water.
Victoria Lines Fault
A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.
Ta' Ċinċ Hill
A hill near Birkirkara that functions as part of the interior topography.
More places
Tal-Massar Winery (Gozo)
A boutique winery on Gozo specializing in producing wines from local grape varieties.
Gozo Cottage Products
A shop selling traditional Gozitan products like cheese (Ġbejna), honey, and jams.
Ta' Mena Estate (Gozo)
An agritourism estate on Gozo that produces wine, olive oil, and other local products.
Marsalforn Bay (Gozo)
A popular resort town with a small harbour for fishing boats.
Fort Chambray
A fortified city overlooking Mġarr Harbour.
Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal
The ferry terminal on the northernmost point of Malta for services to Gozo.
Ghadira Nature Reserve
An important bird sanctuary and wetland, especially during bird migration seasons.
Il-Qortin Ridge
A narrow ridge located northeast of Mellieħa.