Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1543739
8 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 6 MARCH 2026 CULTURE Launch of Wonders of Gozo – A new virtual reality cultural experience THE Wonders of Gozo virtual reality experience was officially launched on Friday 27th Febru- ary 2026 at Gozo College Sir Ar- turo Mercieca Primary School, Victoria. The initiative forms part of the virtualmalta.com project and represents a signif- icant step forward in the digital promotion of Gozo's cultural and natural heritage. The project was developed through collaboration between the Eastern Regional Council and the Gozo Regional Coun- cil, with the support of the Malta Tourism Authority. Addressing those present, the President of the Eastern Re- gional Council, Anthony Chir- cop, explained that the concept for the project originated dur- ing the COVID-19 period. At a time when physical travel and cultural engagement were re- stricted, the initiative sought to find innovative ways to bring Malta's and Gozo's heritage closer to people through digi- tal means. What began as a re- sponse to unprecedented chal- lenges has now evolved into a forward-looking cultural and tourism product. In his address, the President of the Gozo Regional Council, Samuel Azzopardi, emphasised that this project stands as a clear example of how regions can work together without barriers. He noted that there should be no borders between regions when it comes to pro- moting national heritage and strengthening cultural identi- ty. Wonders of Gozo, he stat- ed, demonstrates what can be achieved when institutions col- laborate with a shared vision and common purpose. Through immersive virtual reality technology, the experi- ence showcases some of Gozo's most iconic landmarks, includ- ing the Cittadella, Gozo, the Ta' Pinu National Shrine, and the island's renowned opera houses, Teatru Astra and Tea- tru Aurora, along with various rural landscapes and cultural sites. The initiative aims to make Gozo's heritage more accessi- ble, both locally and interna- tionally, while strengthening the island's cultural and tour- ism offering through innova- tion. The launch event included of- ficial addresses, a presentation of the project's vision, and live demonstrations allowing at- tendees to experience the im- mersive VR tours firsthand. Please find the full pro- ject video here: https:// youtu.be/ST1wG0cm- nAY?si=NCt-GmU4hZo- dUNCd At a time when physical travel and cultural engagement were restricted, the initiative sought to find innovative ways to bring Malta's and Gozo's heritage closer to people through digital means