The Citadel

The Citadel, also known as the Kastell, is the fortified historic old town of Victoria (Rabat) in the center of the island of Gozo. The site has a history of settlement dating back to the Neolithic period but was significantly fortified in its current form by the Knights of St. John in the late 16th century following the devastating Ottoman attack of 1551. Until 1637, the inhabitants of Gozo were required by law to spend the night within the Citadel walls for their safety. Inside the walls are significant buildings such as the Cathedral of the Assumption, which was built without a dome and instead features an impressive perspective ceiling painting. Following extensive restoration between 2008 and 2016, the massive fortifications are once again fully accessible, offering spectacular panoramic views across the entire island. The Citadel also houses several museums, including the Archaeological Museum and the Nature Museum, as well as the city's ancient grain silos.

Nearby cities

Munxar

Munxar is a small village situated between the Xlendi Valley and the valley of Marsalforn, known for its rural atmosphere.

Xewkija

Xewkija is one of Gozo's oldest villages, dominated by the massive dome of its Rotunda church, dedicated to St.

Żebbuġ, Gozo

Żebbuġ, perched on a hill in northern Gozo, is renowned for its stunning views, its onyx deposits, and its scenic coastline.

Dwejra

A spectacular natural area on Gozo featuring the Inland Sea, the Blue Hole, and the historic site of the Azure Window.

Nadur

Situated on a plateau in eastern Gozo, Nadur is famous for its vibrant carnival, its maritime influence, and the Ta' Kenuna Tower.

Qawra

Qawra is a resort town adjacent to Buġibba, known for its hotels, the Malta National Aquarium, and the Salina Nature Park.

Mtarfa

Mtarfa is a small town overlooking Mdina, known for its past as a British military barracks and its distinctive clock tower.

Għargħur

Għargħur is one of Malta's smallest and oldest villages, situated on a hilltop with views of the coast.

History & landmarks

It-Tokk Market

The central market square of Victoria.

Giordan Lighthouse

A prominent lighthouse on a hill overlooking Għasri.

Sarraflu Pond

A rare natural freshwater pond on Gozo.

Mġarr ix-Xini

A narrow, secluded bay and valley.

Ħondoq ir-Rummien

A small cove with crystal clear water directly facing Comino.

Blue Lagoon

Famous bay on Comino.

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'.

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

Fig Trees in Xaghra (Gozo)

The area around Xaghra is known for its fig trees and production of fig products.

Tal-Massar Winery (Gozo)

A boutique winery on Gozo specializing in producing wines from local grape varieties.

Marsalforn Bay (Gozo)

A popular resort town with a small harbour for fishing boats.

Ta' Cenc Cliffs (Gozo)

These cliffs on Gozo are a major nesting site for colonies of seabirds.

Dreams of Horses Farm (Gozo)

A rescue farm for horses and other animals, offering therapeutic activities.

Għajn Barrani (Gozo)

A remote cliff area important for local flora and fauna.

Fort Chambray

A fortified city overlooking Mġarr Harbour.

Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal

The ferry terminal on the northernmost point of Malta for services to Gozo.