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8 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 1 NOVEMBER 2024 CULTURE Exploring the museums at the Citadel WITH its distinctive skyline and imposing military architec- ture, the Cittadella, Gozo's an- cient fortified city, serves as the island's most prominent land- mark, visible from every corner of the island. Within the Citadel, you'll find a collection of intriguing mu- seums and a state-of-the-art Visitors' Centre, including the Cathedral Museum, the Muse- um of Archaeology, the Folk- lore Museum, the Gozo Nature Museum, the Old Prison, the Old Gunpowder Magazine, the Grain Silos, the Battery, and the World War II Shelter. Gozo Museum of Archaeology Delve into Gozo's rich cultur- al history at the Gozo Museum of Archaeology, located in the heart of the Citadel. Featuring artifacts from vari- ous archaeological sites across the island, the museum presents thematic displays that highlight Gozo's heritage from prehis- toric times to the early modern period. The Old Prison The Old Prison, a notable part of the Citadel, offers a poignant look into Gozo's penal history. As the oldest surviving pris- on on the island, its walls echo the stories of countless inmates who have left their marks in the form of historical graffiti. This museum houses the larg- est known collection of such graffiti in the Maltese Islands, providing a fascinating glimpse into the conditions faced by prisoners of the past. Gran Castello Historic House (Folklore Museum) The Gran Castello Historic House, also known as the Folk- lore Museum, showcases an extensive array of artifacts re- flecting the domestic, rural, and traditional lifestyles of the peo- ple of Malta and Gozo through- out the centuries. Highlights include a vegetable grading machine, a beast-driv- en mill, a cotton gin, miniature stone toys, a large lace-mak- ing bolster, and a blacksmith's workshop. Gozo Nature Museum Journey through the natural wonders of Gozo at the Gozo Nature Museum, which fea- tures everything from ancient fossils to exquisite butterflies and even moonstone fragments. A small garden behind the museum is dedicated to garigue flora, showcasing examples of the island's indigenous plant species. The Cathedral Museum The Cathedral Museum of- fers an in-depth exploration of Gozo's unique ecclesiastical heritage. Spread over three levels, with accessibility options, the muse- um houses a remarkable Silver Vault on Level 1, featuring ex- quisite ecclesiastical silverware, including a beautifully crafted solid silver crucifix and match- ing candlesticks used during the feast of Santa Marija. Level 2 presents the History and Memorabilia section, show- casing items that tell the story of the cathedral, including the former landau of the bishops of Gozo, which dates back to the early 1860s and was used for special occasions until 1945. Combo ticket To fully immerse yourself in Gozo's extraordinary past, con- sider purchasing the Citadella Combo ticket. This ticket grants one-time admission to the following mu- seums and sites: Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Gran Castello Historic House, Gozo Nature Museum, The Old Prison, and the Citadel Visitor Centre. Start your journey at the Visi- tor Centre, where you can learn about the island's rich history, then explore the Citadel's wind- ing medieval streets and enjoy breathtaking views. Discover the fascinating stories of Gozo's people, flora, and fauna as you wander through this historic hilltop fortress.