Ta' Nikol Art Gallery
Art gallery in Victoria, Gozo, with rotating exhibitions.
🌐 artbyemmanuelprevi.com🕒 Th-Sa 10:00-16:00; Mo 10:00-16:00; We 10:00-16:00
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Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo)
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River
The Lunzjata Valley Fountain is a historic and functional landmark positioned within the lush Wied il-Lunzjata, located on the outskirts of Victoria and Kerċem in Gozo. This valley is one of the most fertile areas on the island, primarily due to the natural perennial springs that flow through it, a rarity in the dry Maltese climate. The fountain itself, an ornate stone structure, was built by the Knights of St. John in the late 17th century to provide clean water for irrigation and the local community. Historically, the valley served as the Grand Master's private hunting ground, and several buildings from that era still stand, including a small chapel dedicated to the Annunciation. Geologically, the valley is a deep cut in the limestone plateau, where the Blue Clay layer traps groundwater, forcing it to emerge as springs. Today, Lunzjata is a peaceful agricultural haven where traditional farming methods are still practiced, with terraced fields filled with vegetables and citrus trees. The fountain remains a symbol of Gozo's historical water management and a popular starting point for scenic walks through the verdant landscape.
- Location: Malta
- Top sights: Ta' Nikol Art Gallery · Saint George's Basilica · Il-Haġar Gozo Museum
- Nearby: Dwejra (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 67 | 53 | 35 | 17 | 12 | 4 | 10 | 63 | 83 | 92 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This natural spring oasis on Gozo is typically reached via traditional agricultural paths that wind down from the nearby prominent towns.
Best season
Thanks to the constant fresh water, it remains a green haven year-round, though it feels particularly refreshing during the intense summer heat.
Terrain & paths
The environment consists of gentle descending trails passing through terraced farmland, often shaded by large trees and lined with stone walls.
What to bring
Light walking shoes are perfectly adequate for the well-trodden paths, and insect repellent is generally a good idea due to the lingering moisture.
Parking
Visitors normally leave their cars on the outskirts of Victoria or Kercem, opting to complete the short journey into the verdant valley on foot.
Safety
Take standard care on potentially mossy or wet stones near the water source itself to avoid slipping during your tranquil exploration.
Time needed
A relaxing walk down to the spring and back typically consumes around forty-five minutes to an hour of an itinerary on the island.
Geography
Facts
- The valley is one of the few places in Gozo with year-round running water.
- The ornate fountain was constructed by the Knights of Malta in the 17th century.
- It was historically used as a private hunting ground for the Grand Masters.
- The area contains a 16th-century chapel dedicated to the Annunciation.
- Lunzjata is known for its fertile soil and traditional terrace farming.
- The local spring water is still used today by farmers for irrigation.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo) (10)
Il-Haġar Gozo Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Victoria, Gozo, featuring cultural exhibits.
🌐 heartofgozo.org.mt🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00
Church of Saint James
Church building in Victoria, Malta.
Gozo 360°
Attraction offering a panoramic view of Gozo.
Citadel Theatre
Theatre in the citadel of Victoria, Gozo.
Teatru Astra
Opera house in Victoria, Gozo, one of two on the island.
Citadella Visitor's Centre🏛 museum
Visitor centre in the citadel of Victoria, Gozo.
Villa Rundle Gardens🌳 park
Park in Malta, a green space in Victoria, Gozo.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Lunzjata Valley located?
It is located on the border between Victoria (Rabat) and Kercem on the island of Gozo.
What is special about the fountain?
It provides a constant supply of water year-round for Gozo's most fertile valley.
Is the valley shaded?
Yes, there are many trees and reeds, making it cooler during hot summer days.
Are there any historic buildings?
Yes, there is a small chapel dating back to the 14th century at the valley entrance.
Is the path wheelchair accessible?
The main path is flat and paved, making it partially accessible for wheelchairs.
Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo): where is it located?
Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo) is located in Malta.
Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo): what is there to see?
Highlights include Ta' Nikol Art Gallery, Saint George's Basilica, Il-Haġar Gozo Museum.
Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo): why is it worth visiting?
The Lunzjata Valley Fountain is a historic and functional landmark positioned within the lush Wied il-Lunzjata, located on the outskirts of Victoria and Kerċem in Gozo.
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More places
Lunzjata Valley (Gozo)
A lush, green valley on Gozo that hosts rich flora and fauna, including freshwater crabs.
Gozo Artisan Network
An initiative promoting local artisans and food producers on Gozo.
Gozo 3D Cinema (Citadel)
A cinema in the Gozo Citadel showing a 3D film about the island's history.
Villa Rundle Gardens (Gozo)
A public garden in Victoria with a playground and many birds in aviaries.
Caper Bushes of Gozo
Gozo is known for its wild-growing caper bushes, whose buds are harvested and preserved.
Gozo Cottage Products
A shop selling traditional Gozitan products like cheese (Ġbejna), honey, and jams.
Magro Food Village (Gozo)
A food processing center that also offers tours and tastings of local products.
Kunserva Factory (Gozo)
A major producer of 'Kunserva', a traditional Maltese tomato paste.