Gozo is one stunner of a sister island. There’s so much beauty it’s quite the achievement to discover the lot. But let’s start with the gorgeous churches scattered around the cities and villages of this beautiful green rock.
Munxar
First on our list, the cute parish church in Munxar. This quaint village boasts all you’d expect from a typical Gozitan town: everyone’s friendly; the area is serviced by local grocers and vegetable vendors; and it still feels like it did decades ago. At the heart of the town is a pjazza which features a functioning church with beautiful tapestries, hung up during festa season as the warm scent of incense graces the air.
Ta’ Pinu
The most obvious church to visit is that of Ta’ Pinu. Probably Gozo’s most visited religious location, this place of worship not only features a stunning church (beautiful both inside and out!), but also a pilgrimage walk in the nearby green areas. Ta’ Pinu is found in Gharb and boasts a style of architecture known as Romanesque Revival.
Fontana
Fontana is a drive-by kind of locality which connects the capital of Victoria with the bustling seaside village of Xlendi. But a stop in Fontana can lead you to some old fresh water springs that used to serve the public way back when and allows for a quick drop in on the Sacred Heart of Jesus parish church - look up and bask in the glory of its jaw dropping architecture.
Ghasri
The Corpus Christi church is one of the most visually stunning. Its form is clean, to the point and full of character. Ghasri is one of the smallest villages in Gozo and has quite the history to share with all those who visit.
Lunzjata Valley
An area built by the Knights to provide all laypeople with a church, giving them a place to pray before and after a day’s work in the fields, Lunzjata Valley is a bountiful space that features a little chapel deep in the valley. Go on an adventure, enjoy the countryside and pop into the chapel for a look around.
Zebbug
The Zebbug parish church is colossal, and it dominates the village square, acting as a landmark for all those travelling to the area. Outside the church you’ll find a band club that shoots out some of the best pizzas and, on the inside of the church, you’ll find some stylised art by the late Emvin Cremona. Win, win if you ask me.
Ghajnsielem
Gothic architecture is quite the head-turner and the Ghansielem church is, indeed, one to look out for. As you drive off the ferry and onto Gozo, the Ghajnsielem church is there, peering down at you and welcoming you to the happier island. Step inside if you’ve got the time, it’s well worth a visit.
Churches in Malta and Gozo are in abundance but finding the extra pretty ones is quite the treasure hunt! Which have you experienced?