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Gozo
is an island that is largely unknown to the outside world. The
scenery and lifestyle provides a tranquil retreat from the frantic
pace of modern life. Thought to be the mythical Isle of Calypso
of Homer’s Odyssey, the charm of Gozo is apparent on arrival.
The countryside is characterised by its rubble walls and prickly
pear hedges bordering terraced fields .
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Nearly a quarter of the population of Gozo inhabit the capital Victoria,
more commonly known as Rabat by the local inhabitants is the main
commercial centre of the island. The rest live in the other villages
that surround Victoria. |
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Although small, Gozo can offer the tourist an exciting experience.
The island boasts a rich history with its medieval architecture,
forts and prehistoric temples. Its rural environment provides an
ideal backdrop for the majestic Baroque churches and farmhouses
that dot the countryside. Gozo also comes complete with a spectacular
landscape where one can enjoy magnificent country walks and appreciate
the serenity that the island has to offer. Last, but not least is
a coastline that |
possesses lovely sandy beaches and some of the best dive sites in
the Mediterranean. |
The Citadel dominates
the capital and is the main tourist attraction of Gozo. This old
fortified city hides behind its bastions a number of fine buildings,
museums and the Cathedral Church. From the huge walls of the fortifications
a breathtaking panorama unfolds, where all the villages with their
dominant church domes can be seen. Situated in the heart of
Victoria is the Basilica of St. George just off the
open air
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market in Independence Square. The medieval narrow streets that
surround this Basilica instil a feeling of times gone by and are
worth a glimpse. |
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The most popular
summer resorts on the island is Marsalforn and Xlendi bay, where
one can bask in the sun or enjoy a swim in the crystal blue waters
of the Mediterranean Sea. A visit to the golden-reddish sands of
Ramla is a must where one finds Roman remains and the famous Calypso
Cave referred to by Homer in the Odyssey.
Dwejra is home to the Azure Window and Fungus Rock which
offers
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a
magnificent attraction on the western part of the island.
Ggantija when literally translated means ‘the Giant’s
Tower’. It is a Neolithic temple built over 5000 years ago
and with its walls still in place it rises to a height of 7 metres.
It has survived the elements quite well and its construction shows
the ingenuity of the race that inhabited these islands. |
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