Victoria e Cittadella

Paraphrasing the old saying all roads lead to Rome , in the case of Gozo , we can really say that all roads lead to Rabat, also known by the name of Victoria, it is located in the center of the island and the Citadel of this location is visible from almost the entire island as it overlooks the surrounding area. the Citadel was built in the late Middle Ages, but the hillock dates back to the Neolithic age.

For a long time the Citadel served as a defense against attacks by corsairs and Saracens. The origins: After the Great Siege of 1565, the Knights decided to fortify the Citadel to offer refuge and shelter from further attacks. Until 1637 the inhabitants of Gozo were forced, by law, to spend their nights inside the Citadel to protect their own safety.

Later After the war, this obligation was abolished and the population moved under the walls, giving life to the thriving city of Rabat, now known as Victoria. Victoria is not only the geographical heart of Gozo but also the center of all day-to-day activities.

Despite its fervor, however, this area manages to perfectly combine the bustle of markets and shops with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It’s worth stopping to watch the islanders go about their business, especially at dawn when the central market square, It-Tokk, begins to fill up Wandering Victoria’s market stalls and narrow streets, you’ll find just about everything from delicious fresh produce to cheeses and wines, from antiques to local crafts, from fishing nets to knitted garments. The city also boasts a thriving cultural activity and promotes attractions ranging from opera to horse racing, organized in the main avenue during the holidays.