Mellieha European Destination of Excellence Your Gateway to Diversity and Beauty
WITH COMPLIMENTS OF THE MALTA TOURISM AUTHORITY
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North West of Malta Mosta, St Paul’s Bay, Bugibba, Qawra, Mellieha – European Destination Of Excellence – Cirkewwa and sourrounding countryside
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he history of the northern stretch of Malta is not so obvious as it is for other parts of the island. However, in spite of this there are numerous landmarks of historical and natural interest and value to see. The north of the island was practically uninhabited except for sparse farmsteads up until the19th century, to the point that even at the beginning of the 20th century, there were fewer than 2000 families living there and most of these were fishermen or farmers. Today all the various bays in this area are always alive with boats that can be seen bobbing up and down on the crystal azure waters of the various bays in the area.
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Photographs courtesy of MTA
For advertising call Roy Russell on 7953 8424 or 2131 6326/7/8
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed in PocketMalta Gozo Special are not necessarily those of the editor or publishers.All reasonable care is taken to ensure truth and accuracy, but the editor and publishers cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions in articles, advertising, photographs or illustrations. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome but cannot be returned without a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. The editor is not responsible for material submitted for consideration. PocketMalta Gozo Special is printed by Progress Press. NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
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MELLIEHA
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ellieha is the town situated in the northernmost part of Malta and is a popular summer destination for both domestic Maltese and foreign visitors. Mellieha has some other very interesting features and cultural attributes, which make it the ideal resort for an all-year round experience. Mellieha is well known for its historic Marian Sanctuary which dates back to the early years of Christianity.
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Watersports, Snacks, drinks, ice-creams, burgers and more... Sun beds & Umbrellas also available
San Remo Beach Club & Il-Padrino Restaurant Marfa Road, Mellieha Bay, Mellieha – Tel: 2157 3326 www.sanremobeachclubmalta.com
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The area also has a number of fortifications ranging from the 16th Century and as recent as the mid 20th Century. But the locality also boasts of the broad areas of natural habitats that are ideal for walking, cycling and eco trails. 6
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iudohntseeulpg s A 300 year old converted house of character, with a very romantic ambience. Serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine, with a friendly professional service, Rebekah’s Restaurant is an experience not to be missed for a night to remember. Free pick up and drop off service for all hotels in the Mellieha area. 12, Triq It-Tgham, Mellieha Tel: +(356) 2152 1145 Mob: (+356) 7947 8896 Web: www.rebekahsmalta.com Email: info@rebekahsmalta.com
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The family-run Splendid Guesthouse is close to Mellieha’s main shopping teertcentre. S irgaMThe tserooftop irP hsirterrace aP offers panoramic views of Gozo and Comino, Malta’s sister islands
7401HLM ,aheilleM atlaM
Functional rooms with free Wi-Fi
6231 2512 )653+( :leT • Terrace, Non-Smoking Rooms, Safety Deposit Box, Luggage Storage, Air Conditioning 4840 5397 )653+( :boM Email: info@splendidguesthouse.com.mt • Laundry, Ironing Service, Currency Exchange, 2253 2512 )653+( :xaF Packed Lunches, Car Hire, Fax/Photocopying Fax: (+356) 2152 3522 • Free! Wi-Fi is available tm.mocin.ethesuentire ohtshotel eugdand idnelps@ofni :liamE Mob: (+356) 7935 0484 is free of charge • Free public parking is possible at a location Tel: (+356) 2152 1326 nearby (reservation is not needed) Malta
splendid guesthouse
Address:Mellieha, Parish Priest Magri Street, Mellieha MLH1047 MLH1047 Tel: +356 21521326 | Mob: +356 79350484 | Fax: +356 21523522 Parish Priest Magri Street Email: info@splendidguesthouse.com.mt NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS A Website: www.splendidguesthouse.com.mt
John Paul Lafferty
Mellieha village is situated at the top of a hill overlooking Ghadira Bay. The Sanctuary is dedicated to Our Lady of Mellieha and for centuries this has been a haven for pilgrims seeking solace. With its typical village square; the old monastery and Belvedere adjacent to the sanctuary, quaint village houses and picturesque views over the bay and ridges, Mellieha is surely a soothing place to vistit for relaxation. Whether it is for a quick dip in the clear blue Mediterranean (13 beaches and Malta’s best diving sites), a walk along the ridges (Majjistral Park and Selmun) or a discovery of some of the old forts (Red Tower, Tunnara Museum, White Tower, and structures such as the Selmun Tower and World War Shelters) and chapels, you will find Mellieha has a lot to offer the discerning visitor. 8
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IL-MITHNA Text Safe Area
Welcome... Situated in a converted 400 year old windmill, built by the knights of St John during the second half of the 17th century and is today still full of its original features. The restaurant consists of two cosy dining rooms as well as two picturesque terraces that make dining a memorable experience. We specialise in local and Mediterranean cuisine, with emphasis on fresh produce in season. Come in and enjoy! 45, Main Street, Mellieha Tel: (+356) 2152 0404 Mob: (+356) 7948 5817 Email: ilmithna@onvol.net
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In 2009, the locality of Mellieha was the recipient of the EDEN award, for its sustainable initiatives; it succeeded in achieving the title of excellence relating to tourism and protected areas. The principal reasons for this success can be indicated as: the involvement of the local community; the dedication and strategic vision of its very active NGOs supported by the Local Council and the locality’s own assets which have been exalted without being irreversibly exploited. • Main restaurant upstairs • Swimming pool • Snack bar • Outdoor eating area for the summer months • Beautiful views of Xemxija Bay • Premises can be hired for private functions
• Maltese Cuisine – Mediterranean Cuisine – Pizza • Summer – June till end September: daily from 9.30pm till late • Winter – 6.30pm till 11.00pm – Mondays closed
Il Coniglio Bar & Restaurant – Triq Piscopo Macedonia – Xemxija Heights – Xemxija Tel: 2741 3892 – Mob: 7741 2892 A NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
Mellieħa MELLIEĦA
The locality of Mellieħa awarded as:
EUROPEAN DESTINATION OF EXCELLENCE by the European Union
Our Lady of Mellieħa Sanctuary
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Through these initiatives, Mellieha has managed to maintain its contribution to the principle of sustainable development by enabling the enjoyment of Mellieha’s rural and traditional assets for present and future generations.
We offer a full service beach club in an idyllic setting, with outstanding service, great restaurant serving local, fresh produce, and all the comforts of a home away from home.
Book a table for lunch, rent a Mandalay for the afternoon, a water taxi to and from your boat by calling NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS ABaia Beach Club, Armier Bay, Tel: 2157 3421 | www.baiabeachclub.com
MUNCHIES GOLDEN BAY
Munchies is a great beach club, during the day serving fresh, great value for money casual cuisine transforming at night into a warm elegant restaurant to meet and make friends while watching the starlit waves break on the sand of Golden Bay...
night or day... there’s nowhere quite like Munchies Munchies Beach CafÊ, Golden bay Open All day All week from 11:00am till late. Tel: 2157 6416 | Mob: 9957 6417
Both the visitor and the local resident live in a wholesome and comprehensive experience of rural life. These initiatives ensure that the locality of Mellieha develops as a destination for all seasons and not just a summer resort.
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Armier The heat is on… and anyone who can find the time is heading towards a beach, who can blame them? You will find that the waters around our islands are breathtaking and their crystal blue appearance so very inviting – the beauty of all this is, that no matter what you prefer, be it the deep blue waters or the shallower sea, you will find a perfect beach just waiting for you – only problem is though, that due to the large flood of tourists during the summer months, finding a secluded spot can be difficult. Having said that, the surrounding sea in Malta is so crystal clear and blue that you won’t mind sharing it with a few others whilst taking a dip in its cooling comfort – a positive thought is that beaches in Malta are safe for swimming. 16
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Armier Bay, Armier L/O Mellieha
We specialise in
Rabbit Dishes & Maltese Cuisine Tel: 2157 3520
Family-run restaurant Open Mon-Sun 6PM onwards Closed on Tuesday (winter months) Specialising on fresh fish, shellfish and Maltese cuisine
bster live lo Fresh available also
Marfa Road, Mellieha Bay, Mellieha MLH 9063 | Tel: (+356) 2152 1753
the perfect venue for all events Mellieha Holiday Centre Great Dane & Dynasty Restaurants For more information please contact us on 2289 3000 Email: info@mhc.com.mt Web: www.mhc.com.mt
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Found on one of the most famous bays in Malta is the lovely Armier Lido (Palm Beach Lido), found at the north of the island, it offers breathtaking views of Comino and Gozo. The restaurant and snack bar/pizzeria can be found on their spacious terraces where there is the choice of either sitting inside where it is obviously cooler, or outside on the terrace. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes and is very varied to suit everyone’s palate. You will also find that BBQ’s are organised every day or if preferred during the evening where you can literally get into the mood to eat and drink to your heart’s content and simply enjoy yourselves! Another beautiful place in the same vicinity is the Baia Beach Club – a little haven found at Little Armier – also with breathtaking views of Gozo and Comino. Recently it has very tastefully been refurbished and re-launched as a stylish venue where one can enjoy Mediterranean living forgetting any stress and leaving worries behind. Their cuisine is exquisite not to mention fresh… to be enjoyed whilst watching the unique sunsets over a refreshing cocktail and inspiring tunes. Baia is also available for private events and wedding receptions.
Victoria Bar Restaurant, Pizzeria & Cafeteria
Open all year round from 10am till late For breakfast, lunch, snacks & dinner with Maltese dishes. Moderate prices. Private Functions. Beach facilities.
Armier Bay, Armier
Tel: (+356) 2157 6140 | Mob: (+356) 9947 3688/9945 2792 DELIGHTS anettemifsud@onvol.net A NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES &Email:
Besides our mainstream karting activities we also play host to various functions throughout the year – product launches, conference meetings, company events, car shows and exhibitions as well as general group meetings. We also offer: Weekly discounted packages directed to youths Various activities throughout the week Exclusive packages for both locals and tourists alike Teen Party Packages Bachelor and Hen Parties The ever-popular Karting & Pizza Saturday Night Special For further details about our activities please contact:
tel: 21421838/9 | e-mail: karting@badger.com.mt | web: www.badger.com.mt http://www.facebook.com/pages/Badger-Karting-Malta/214476845253826 address: Triq Duramblat – l/o Mosta Opening times: Winter: Tue to Fri from 1700hrs to 2300hrs Sat, Sun and pub holidays 1200hrs to 2300hrs VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS Summer: Tue to Sun from 1900hrs toNORTHERN 2400hrs A
St Paul’s Bay St Paul’s Bay / Shipwreck St Paul’s Bay was once a small fishing village and was certainly a far cry from today’s scene, as one will notice. It is now a fully fledged touristic seaside resort, where all amenities and facilities can be found to make your stay as comfortable as possible. St. Paul’s Bay offers plenty of options to keep you entertained with an assortment of water sports, restaurants to suit all palates, bars and cafes and not forgetting a selection of rocky beaches consisting mostly of flat rocks making it perfect for sunbathing. You may opt to lie in the shade and just watch the world go by, or take a dip in the clear blue waters to cool down. 20
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This part of the island, which is so popular today, has also come a long way from the events that gave the place its name all the way back to AD 60. According to the Acts of the Apostles’ (chap. 28), St Paul’s ship actually ran aground here when it was caught in a tempest as it journeyed from the Holy Land to Rome. The narrator, St. Luke, says that St Paul was treated well by the Maltese people as they built a fire for him and the 270 other crew members. According to tradition, it was St. Paul who removed the venom from the island’s poisonous snakes for ever. In 1845 a large statue of St Paul which was erected on one of the islands of St. Paul, to commemorate the historic shipwreck.
Gwiebi Street, Bugibba, St. Paul’s Bay SPB 2850 Tel: (+356) 2157 2151/2157 7050 Fax: (+356) 2158 0048 Email: info@solair.com.mt Web: www.solair.com.mt
Apartments for both short and long lets
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Wignacourt Tower This tower is situated at a point in St. Paul’s Bay on the Bugibba side and was the earliest built at the expense of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt in 1610 and designed by Maltese architect Vittorio Cassar. This wasn’t simply a watchtower, but formed a significant stronghold in the northern side of Malta, intended to stop any landings by the enemy. The tower used to be accessed from its first floor as an entrance was cut out at a certain height from the ground and accessible by climbing up a flight of steps. Sadly these steps were removed during the 1950’s and a ground floor entrance was opened in recent years instead, to accommodate visitors. From 1610 to 1649 this tower served as the northernmost defensive outpost, until St Agatha’s Tower (Red Tower) was built further west, beyond the town of Mellieha. In 1715 a coastal defence battery was added, to increase the firepower of the tower. Later on, during the 18th century the tower was equipped with two 6-pounder and three 18-pounder cannons. In the late 9th century it was used as a police station and telegraph post. In the 70’s this tower was leased to Din l-Art Helwa (Malta’s National Trust) and between 1973 and 1976 it had its stone structure restored. An exhibition of fortification models from all over Malta was set up inside the tower in 1998, whereas on the second floor one can see a display of military paraphernalia used during the knight’s period. 22
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www.seaviewmaltahotel.com
Located on the shore of the Mediterranean sea close to all amenities from the beach to the casino. Idyllic whether on business, holiday or a relaxing break.
Qawra Road, Qawra, St. Paul’s Bay Tel: +356 2157 3105 Email: seaviewh@go.net.mt Web: www.seaviewmaltahotel.com
LA PICCOLA CALABRIA Trattoria Ristorante Tipico Italiano degustazione vini
Specialising in Italian cuisine, fresh fish and shellfish. Mixed selection of Italian starters, top range of Italian red wines. Open 6:30PM till late, Mon to Sat. Close on Tuesday. Sunday open from lunch onwards.
HIGH STREET, ST PAUL’S BAY | TEL: 7745 0858 NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
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1. L’Ahrax - North Reef 2. L’Ahrax - South Reef Tunnel 3. HMS Stubborn (P238) 4. Qawra Point 5. Imperial Eagle Ferry & Christ Statue 6. Exiles/St. Julians Point ARMIER BAY 7. Fortizza CIRKEWWA 8. X-131 Lighter (Carolita) 1 9. St. Elmo Bay Valletta - HMS Maori 27 2 MELLIEHA BAY 26 10. Fort St. Elmo Bay Valletta 11. Le Polynesien 3 25 4 24 12. Tug Boats: Melita & St. Michael 13. Zonqor Point - North 23 5 BUGIB 14. Blenheim Bomber Il-PRAJJIET 15. Delimara Point - East Reef 16. Delimara Point - South Reef ST. 17. Wied iz-Zurrieq - Um El Faroud XEMXIJA MELLIEHA 18. Wied iz-Zurrieq - West 19. Wied iz-Zurrieq - East 20. Ghar Lapsi - Black John 21. Ghar Lapsi - Finger Reef & Crib GHAJN TUFFIEHA 22. Ghar Lapsi - Middle Reef 23. Migra Ferha 24. Anchor Bay 25. Cirkewwa - Paradise Bay 26. Cirkewwa - Tug Boat Rozi 27. Cirkewwa - Cirkewwa Arch 28. Comino Caves 29. Lantern Point 30. Wreck - Xlendi, Karwela, Comino Land 31. Ta’ Cenc 32. Mgarr ix-Xini 33. Xlendi 34. DWEJRA - Little Bear/Crocodile Rock - Big Bear/Coral Gardens - Blue Hole/Azure Window - Inland Sea/Blue Hole 22 21 - Inland Sea & Tunnel 20 35. Cathedral Cave 36. Reqqa Point 37. Double Arch
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35 36 37 34
Gozo
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BBA
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31 30 29
Comino
PAUL’S BAY
Diving Sites 6
MOSTA
NAXXAR
7 8 9 10
Beginners & Intermediate Intermediate Intermediate & Advanced Advanced & Technical
Malta 11 12 13 14
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NOW UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
PADI Cours g es • Eq ervicin uipmen ting & S s e t hire • Acc T r e d n i • Cyl ompanied diving • Air/Nitrox/Trimix flls • Regulator Servicing
Diving Centre, St. Pauls Bay, Malta - www.scubatech.info - Tel: 2158 0617 / 9949 7619
Diving all rounD
Malta, Gozo & CoMino contact us on
tel. 21579753 / 79063462
www.scubadivingmalta.com
with D ive the Experts
Gillieru Harbour Hotel St. Paul’s Bay
21 57 87 25 A
Deutsche Tauchbasis
www.octopus-garden.com
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www.octopus-garden.com
Bugibba This is mainly a seventies-style resort, and although quite a distance from Valletta, it has many facilities and enough entertainment to keep its visitors happy. Bugibba offers all sorts of bars, pubs, music clubs and restaurants, serving all sorts of food and drinks. There is a lovely promenade, where one may enjoy a leisurely walk and for the more energetic there are available a variety of water sports which includes paragliding. If one wants to relax, there are loads of places to put down your sun bed or towel and simply watch the world go by! Bugibba does tend to get busy during the summer evenings though, and you will see almost everyone seems to be taking a leisurely walk, trying to catch a cool evening breeze. NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
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Finding something to do during the day is never an issue as there are various boat trips to the sister islands on offer. One may also opt for an Underwater Safari which is ever popular with young and old alike. This consists of a boat trip that will allow you to peer through the large floor glass panes in the hull and below sea level, to catch sight of the marine fauna and flora, another world completely.
No.1 in Fresh Local Fish and Maltese dishes Serving 10am till late | Breakfast, brunch, | lunch and dinner NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES &Bugibba. DELIGHTS 40 Island Promenade, Call on: (+356) 7742 4066 - 9924 6307 or 7720 2099
ecobikesmalta Rental of bicycles & electric bicycles
HIRE MT & TRK BIKES ELECTRIC BIKES
Trekking Bike
City Bike
1 DAY
3 DAYS
7 DAYS
€10
€25
€50
€15
€40
€90
Mountain Bike
Electric Bike
Mountain, Trekking, City & Electric Bikes available Delivery and Pick up available
Week End Offers and Special Prices for longer rents 8, Triq l-Ilsell, Bugibba www.bikerentalmalta.com Tel: (+356) 99 471 627 | (+356) 99 615 578 | (+356) 27 5000 22 NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS 41 Email: ecobikesmalta@gmail.com
Nightlife in Bugibba is quite lively as there are a couple of very good clubs. Otherwise you might prefer to just sit back and relax whilst sipping a cool drink by one of the seaside bars, or else, you may want to venture into a comfortable cinema in the area and enjoy a good film. In Bugibba there are some 1,200 families residing in it. Being a Roman Catholic country the parish church is very important for the community which attends mass regularly especially on Sunday. The modern styled church was built in between 1993 and 1997. It was designed by one of Malta’s most prominent architects, Richard England. It is dedicated to St Francis of Assisi and is serviced by the Franciscan Conventuals. Its size is considerable and indeed it houses some 1300 people. Mass in English is said every Sunday at 10am. 30
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ALL Live Sport, 4 Big Screens - Rookies Kitchen also serving PIZZAS n Platters - FREE appetizers. Let Rookies be your host for Staff Parties - Birthdays & Hen Nights... Support our local talent at LIVE BANDS EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT. Triq l-Isponoz Bugibba - 2757 4550 - 9989 8877 - 7948 0961
For upcoming events visit www.rookiesmalta.net or our facebook
Rookies Bar
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Places of interest in Mellieha and the hamlet of Manikata Environment and Nature
• Bird Sanctuary • Majjistral Nature and History Park (Malta`s National Park) • Foresta 2000 (Natura 2000 sites) • Heritage Walks • Countryside Walks • Manikata Agro-Tourism Project
Churches and Chapels
• Mellieha Parish Church • Marian Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha • The Grotto of Our Lady • Manikata Church • Selmun Chapel • Chapel of the Immaculate Conception – Ahrax 32
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Bays and Beaches Fortifications
• Red Tower • White Tower • Selmun Palace • World War 2 Pill Boxes • World War 2 Shelters • Westreme Battery
(Tunnara Maritime Museum)
• Anchor Bay – Popeye Village • Armier Bay – Armier • Dahlet ix-Xmajjar – l-Ahrax • Imgiebah Bay • Little Armier Bay – l-Ahrax • Mellieha Bay (Ghadira) • Mistra Bay • Ramla tat-Torri • Ramlet il-Qortin – l-Ahrax • Slugs Bay • White Tower Bay – l-Ahrax • Paradise Bay – Cirkewwa • Cirkewwa Bay – Cirkewwa • Wied Musa Bay – Cirkewwa • Golden Bay
Archaeological Sites
• Cart Ruts • Punic Tombs • Bronze Age Remains • Calypso Cave NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
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x a N f o y r o a i H NAXXAR N f o y r o t s i H y of Na r o t s i H istory of H y of N r o t s i H istory of H y of N r o t s i H A Village and its People
An excellent book about Naxxar. Includes a series of studies by various scholars on different topics/eras of the village life, its inhabitants and their social activities, beginning with pre-historic times up to the present period. ‘The history of Naxxar is not merely a case study. Naxxar is more unique in so many more ways than people who have not as yet read this book would imagine’.
The book can be bought from the editors Special price: €35.00 Mobile: 9921 1274
x ar H x x a N r Histo a x x a N axxar His N r Hist a x x a N axxar H f N ar His x x a N axxar H fN
NAXXAR
(Courtesy of Paul Catania ~ Historian) The small town of Naxxar lies on the strategic heights which control the whole north-eastern area of the Maltese islands. Its position on this seemingly dividing line between the heights and the plain below possibly gave rise to its name. It could be derived from the Arabic word naxxar meaning to separate, cut in two. Another recent interpretation is derived from the Arabic noun naxar, meaning ‘broadcaster’. This could be the connection to the shipwreck of St. Paul which took place in the nearby Roman harbour of Salina or the one next to it, St. Paul’s Bay.
Archeological evidence confirms human settlement both in the centre of the town and also in other areas surrounding it. A good number of these sites can still be seen today in the surrounding areas: the enigmatic cart-ruts, punic tombs, Roman quarries, Paleochristian catacombs. The re-christianisation of the islands after the arrival of the Normans in the 12th century led to a number of trogloditic rock-cut churches. Of these there are two in the Naxxar area, both in the Great Fault cliff-face: the Ghar ta’ San Brinkat and the Ghar ta’ San Pietru. The earliest documentation of the parish of Naxxar takes us to 1436 when it is mentioned as one of the parishes then established on the island. Later documentation confirms the parish as the earliest in the countryside. 36
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At time of the arrival of the Knights Naxxar was the northern-most settlement in the Malta, comprising practically one third of the geographical area of the island. The Naxxar heights were deemed to be of such strategic importance that they built a tower which can still be seen today at San Pawl tat-Targa, the Torri tal-Kaptan. It was the first locality outside the harbour area to have a fortified structure. In the early years of the 18th century the Knights continued to strengthen this strategic point with the building of an entrenchment consisting of four v-shaped redans with a cannon on each one of them. In later years this entrenchment was incorporated in the Victoria Lines, built in the latter half of the 19th century. The very centre of the town, dominated by the parish church built in the beginning of the 17th century, is a true picture of an old Maltese village with the three old streets branching out in different directions from the main square in front of the church. (The opening in the late fifties of the wide avenue was a traffic necessity but it also destroyed the old village core). St. Lucy Street was the very heart of the village. With its 14 alleys and an equal number of niches, its numerous shops and taverns, it used to epitomise village life. Much of this is still there today together with the old prison and the district law-court. The parish church has seen a number of structural changes over the years, the major one being the building of side naves to the original cross-shaped building, together with a totally new facade. Throughout the last century it continued to be embellished with baroque stone carvings, new paintings, and a majestic organ balcony on which stands a Baroque organ dating back to 1773. All these embellishments make the church a flurry of baroque extravaganza. Today Naxxar has grown to a good-sized town with a population reaching the 14,000 mark. It is a sprawling settlement which includes the posh-area of San Pawl tat-Targa with its newly-built centre of religious devotion, the church of the Divine Mercy; the Sghajtar area; the small hamlet of Maghtab; Salina and Bahar-icCaghaq. All these areas fall within the jurisdiction of the Naxxar Local Council. NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
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MOSTA The Mosta Dome
Mosta boasts of the third largest unsupported dome in the world. It is dedicated to the Assumption of Our Lady, a feast which is held on August 15 each year, and a public holiday, the church is also known as the Rotunda. It has an interesting history and one that has made this dome one of the most popular tourist sights on the island. In 1942, when Malta was doing its utmost to survive World War II, the church was almost destroyed as an Axis bomb actually penetrated the dome of the church but thankfully failed to explode. After the detonator was removed, a replica bomb was replaced and is displayed as a memorial. 38
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The rotunda was designed by George Grognet de Vasse who was a French man but lived in Mosta at the time. Mosta’s inhabitants then totalled to no more than 1500 and yet they built this magnificent church with their own hands. It took them 27 years to complete this architectural masterpiece. The designer, Grognet de Vasse, wanted to use a particular type of stone and insisted on getting one slab from each quarry operating on the island. After testing their strength he finally chose a quarry in Mosta just near Ta’ Vnezja which stands at the gate of an old military airfield. One immediately notices the amazing orange and yellow hue when admiring the rotunda while it bathes in the warmth of the sun. NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
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Speranza Chapel Besides the impressive dome, there is a another chapel near the Speranza Valley (Speranza means hope) the Speranza Chapel which opens by appointment only. This was built during the 18th century, between 1760 and 1761. An interesting legend is tied to this small chapel which is set during an invasion of a Turkish armada. Apparently a young girl and her sisters were looking after their family’s sheep when an unexpected landing by the Turks occurred. Whilst the sisters escaped the young girl couldn’t keep up with them because she had a limp. Legend has it that she hid in a cave in a valley nearby their fields. Whilst in hiding, she prayed fervently to Our Lady to be spared from capture and slavery. Her prayers were answered. A spider wove its web over the mouth of the cave. When the Turkish invaders arrived on the spot they didn’t think of looking for her in the cave as they thought that no one could be hiding inside, as the web was still intact. 40
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a’ Marija, winner of The Best Maltese Food Restaurant for 2005 to 2012, offers a truly authentic Maltese evening with original Maltese cuisine and charismatic theme nights of entertainment. Every Wednesday & Friday evening is Maltese Folklore Nights with roving guitars & mandolins and a wonderful, entertaining folklore show.
ta’marija restaurant constitution street, mosta. tel: 21 434 444 e-mail: info@tamarija.com web: www.tamarija.com
a’ Marija, winner of The Best Maltese Food Restaurant for 2005 to 2012, offers a truly authentic Maltese evening with original Maltese cuisine and charismatic theme nights of entertainment.
AW FA R E AR MIL S T D W Y-R A U IN UN R A NIN NT G
OPEN
Tuesday to Saturday 7:30PM onwards Last orders 10:30PM
278, Triq il-Kbira (Main Street) Mosta MST 1017, Malta T: (+356) 21432590 or 21433952 | Fax: (+356) 21436401 Mobile: (+356) 9942 5685 | e-mail: taylorj@maltanet.net § www.lordnelsonrestaurant.com § NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS A
The Victoria Lines The Victoria Lines are so called as these were constructed in and around 1890 when Britain was celebrating Queen Victoria’s 60 years of reign. This area is a perfect day out if you feel like walking, cycling or hiking across the island. The views are splendid and panoramic and you can see just how the Maltese island is divided by this large escarpment which rises out of the land. These defensive lines are fascinating, to say the least, and a great reminder of the Victorian style of military warfare. 42
NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
These lines run from Madliena Heights, near Madliena Fort to end near Fomm Ir-Rih (south west) and if one is brave enough to walk right across the whole of Malta, it is possible by walking along the whole length of the Victoria Lines. The main reason for building these lines was to protect Valletta and the harbour area from any invasions by enemy forces landing on the north coast. All along the escarpment, one will notice watch-towers, gun emplacements and a range of strongholds. The scenery is certainly impressive from all directions. You can view and admire the variety of wild plants and flowers, and the ancient rock cut tombs and cart ruts on the side of Bingemma Hill. The walk also offers, sweeping views of Mgarr village with its lush green countryside and giving it its perfect finish, is the beautiful backdrop of Gozo.
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Situated in the heart of the village of Mosta. For more than 100 years these historic premises have been a warm gathering place for local and foreigners alike. Once visited one is bound to return for a drink and a laugh no matter how many years or miles travelled.
Main Street, Mosta Tel: (+356) 2143 2080
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NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
Climate in Malta Malta’s climate is strongly influenced by the sea and is typical of the Mediterranean. The Islands have a very sunny climate with a daily average of five to six hours sunshine in mid-winter to around 12 hours in summer. Winters are mild, with the occasional short chilly period brought about by the north and north-easterly winds from Western Europe. Summers are hot, dry and sunny. Day-time temperatures in summer are often mitigated by cooling sea breezes, but during autumn a very hot wind from Africa occasionally brings unseasonally high temperatures and humidity. This is known as the Sirocco, or, in Maltese, the Xlokk, this wind affects Greece and Italy as well. However in Malta the air is generally drier because of the short sea track from the African coast. Annual rainfall is low, averaging 568mm a year, and the length of the dry season in summer is longer than in neighbouring Italy. Sea bathing is quite possible well into the ‘winter’ months, and the peak beach season can last until mid to late October. 44
NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
Public Holidays 1st January - New Year’s Day 10th February - St. Paul’s Shipwreck 19th March - St. Joseph 31st March - Freedom Day March / April (date changes) - Good Friday 1st May - Labour Day 7th June - Sette Giugno 29th June - St Peter and St Paul (L-Imnarja) 15th August - The Assumption (Santa Marija) 8th September - Our Lady of Victories 21st September - Independence Day 8th December - Immaculate Conception 13th December Republic Day 25th December - Christmas Day
BIDNIJA HORSE RIDING HORSE RIDING PRE WEDDINGS WEDDINGS FILMS PHOTOSHOOTS
Mob: (+356) 7999 2326 • www. bidnijahorseriding.com45 NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
USEFUL NUMBERS
Keep Pocket Malta with you, day and night, whereever you go Emergency
112
Ambulance
112
Police
112
Fire Brigade
112
Emergency rescue by helicopter
2124 4371
Emergency recue by patrol boat
2123 8797
Hospital - Malta
2124 1251
Hospital - Gozo
2156 1600
Directory enquiries Overseas Operator
1152
Flight enquiries and to confirm your departure
2124 9600
Passport Office - Malta
2122 2286
Passport Office - Gozo
2156 0770
Consumer protection
2125 0221
Fortedent dental clinic
2346 1005
Gov’t Information Service Gozo Channel Co. Ltd.
46
1182/1187/1189
NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
153 2155 6114
NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
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We have completely refurbished & extended our property as well as our services‌ Our All Inclusive includes: Buffet Breakfast Late Breakfast Lunch Afternoon snacks Dinner Hard and soft drinks from 1000hrs to 2300hrs Choice of seven restaurants Sea view, pool view and land view rooms Family, deluxe and standard rooms Wifi, AC, fan, flat TV and safe tea and coffee facilities Indoor pool, gym, sauna and Turkish bath 1.2 sq km outdoor pool, extensive pool deck A warm welcome
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seabank
HHHH RESO RT + SP A ALL-INCLUSIVE NORTHERN VILLAGES SITES & DELIGHTS
Marfa Road, Mellieha Bay Tel: (+356) 2289 1000 Email: info@seabankhotel.com Web: www.seabankhotel.com