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De Rohan Arch

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Historical site
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De Rohan Arch (Malta)

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The De Rohan Arch, also known as the Gateway to Żebbuġ, was constructed in 1777 to commemorate the elevation of the village to the status of a city. It was built in honor of Grand Master Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc, who officially granted the town the title 'Città Rohan'. This triumphal arch is a significant example of late Baroque architecture in Malta and serves as a formal entrance to the historical core of the town. The design features a simple yet elegant structure with Doric pilasters and is crowned with the coat of arms of the Grand Master. The monument stands as a reminder of the relationship between the Order of St. John and the local communities during the late 18th century. Today, the arch is a scheduled national monument and remains a proud symbol of Żebbuġ’s identity and history. It is a central point for local festivities and a popular historical landmark for visitors.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The De Rohan Arch in Żebbuġ is a free-standing monumental arch that can be viewed from the outside at any time. The structure stands at a road junction, publicly accessible with no entry fee.
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Typical hours
As a monument in public space, there are no opening hours. The arch is visible around the clock, great for photos in different lighting conditions.
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Photography
Photography is possible anytime without restrictions. For a dramatic perspective, try photographing the arch from the side to capture its height and the surrounding landscape.
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Time needed
A short visit to see and photograph the arch takes about 10-15 minutes. If you want to explore the area, take a walk through Żebbuġ and allow 30 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the arch with the nearby church district of Żebbuġ or St. Philip's Church. Neighbouring Siġġiewi with its traditional houses is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The De Rohan Arch is on the main road through Żebbuġ and reachable by bus (routes 61, 62) from Valletta. Parking is available along the road or at the nearby market square.
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Insider tip
Visit the arch in the late afternoon when the sun backlights it, creating a nice silhouette. Watch out for traffic as the arch is in the middle of a road, and use the pavement for photos.

Geography

Coordinates
35.87500, 14.44440

Facts

  • Year built: 1777
  • Style: Late Baroque triumphal arch
  • City title: Città Rohan
  • Dedicated to: Grand Master Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc
  • Location: Entrance to the town of Żebbuġ
  • Status: Scheduled national monument

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Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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Sights in the town De Rohan Arch (10)

Żebbuġ Parish Church

Church building in Żebbuġ, Malta, the parish church of the town.

Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel

Church in Malta dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows.

Our Lady of Lourdes

Monument dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes.

Knisja tal-Lunzjata

Church dedicated to the Annunciation.

Kuċċarda ta' Ħaż-Żebbuġ

Monument in Żebbuġ, Malta.

Wignacourt Aqueduct

17th-century aqueduct in Malta.

Villa Bologna

Stately home in Attard, Malta.

Knisja Arċipretali ta' San Ġorġ

Church on a site with two earlier churches, construction started 1584, cross-shaped by 1684.

San Anton Gardens

Gardens in Malta.

San Anton Palace

Palace in Attard, Malta.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who built the arch?
It was built in 1777 by Grand Master Emmanuel de Rohan-Polduc.
Why is the arch here?
It commemorates the day Zebbuġ was granted the status of a city (Città Rohan).
Can you drive through the arch?
Yes, the arch spans the main road leading into the centre of Żebbuġ.
Is there a fee to see it?
No, it is a public monument and can be viewed for free at any time.
Is there parking nearby?
You can park in the residential streets of Żebbuġ, but there are no spots right at the arch.
De Rohan Arch: where is it located?
De Rohan Arch is located in Malta.
De Rohan Arch: what is there to see?
Highlights include Żebbuġ Parish Church, Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel, Our Lady of Lourdes.
De Rohan Arch: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
De Rohan Arch: why is it worth visiting?
The De Rohan Arch, also known as the Gateway to Żebbuġ, was constructed in 1777 to commemorate the elevation of the village to the status of a city.
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