Gozo's Citadel Restoration Inaugurated

On the 9th of July, the completion of the extensive restoration to the Cittadella in Gozo was inaugurated. The Cittadella rises above the town of ir-Rabat, also known as Victoria, Gozo's capital city. Like Mdina, the Cittadella is strategically perched high on a hill, and from here one can enjoy stunning views of Gozo. 

It is believed that the Citadel has been at the centre of activity in Gozo from as early as Neolithic times, what we do know is that it was definitely fortified during the Bronze Ages, which is around 1500 BC. It was further developed throughout the years, and the Romans used it as a complex Acropolis. After almost two centuries of being under attack by the Turks and Berber corsairs, which was in fact Gozo's darkest period, the Knights decided to reconstruct the Citadel between 1599 and 1603.

Over the past few years the Cittadella has had some major works done thanks to two restorations and rehabilitation projects which were co-financed by the European Union. The first project focused on the strengthening and stabilisations of the rocks beneath the fortifications, as well as the restoration of the fortification walls. The other project dealt with the creation of a visitors' centre, which took the place of two unused water reservoirs. Other developments that were carried out by this second project included the restoration of the façades of historic buildings, the rehabilitation of the ditch, as well as the reconstruction of paths, squares and streets within the Cittadella, amongst other things. 

If you would like to know more about this site, or if you would like to plan a visit, feel free to drop us a line by clicking here.  In the mean time, here's a short video related to the inauguration... 


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