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11 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 2 APRIL 2026 CULTURE WITH its distinctive skyline and imposing military archi- tecture, the Cittadella, Gozo's ancient fortified city, serves as the island's most prominent landmark, visible from every corner of the island. Within the Citadel, you'll find a collection of intriguing museums and a state-of-the-art Visitors' Centre, including the Cathedral Muse- um, the Museum of Archaeol- ogy, the Folklore 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 various archae- ological sites across the island, the museum presents thematic displays that highlight Gozo's heritage from prehistoric 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 prison on the island, its walls echo the stories of countless inmates who have left their marks in the form of historical graffiti. This mu- seum houses the largest known collection of such graffiti in the Maltese Islands, providing a fas- cinating glimpse into the condi- tions 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 ma- chine, a beast-driven mill, a cot- ton gin, miniature stone toys, a large lace-making bolster, and a blacksmith's workshop. Gozo Nature Museum Journey through the natural wonders of Gozo at the Gozo Nature Museum, which features everything from ancient fos- sils to exquisite butterflies and even moonstone fragments. A small garden behind the muse- um is dedicated to garigue flora, showcasing examples of the is- land'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 lev- els, with accessibility options, the museum houses a remarka- ble Silver Vault on Level 1, fea- turing exquisite ecclesiastical silverware, including a beauti- fully crafted solid silver crucifix and matching 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. To fully immerse yourself in Gozo's extraordinary past, con- sider purchasing the Citadella Combo ticket. This ticket grants one-time admission to the fol- lowing museums 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 Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the island's rich his- tory, then explore the Citadel's winding medieval streets and enjoy breathtaking views. Dis- cover the fascinating stories of Gozo's people, flora, and fauna as you wander through this his- toric hilltop fortress. Explore the museums at the Citadel in Gozo Above: The Gran Castello Historic House, also known as the Folklore Museum, showcases an extensive array of artifacts reflecting the domestic, rural, and traditional lifestyles of the people of Malta and Gozo throughout the centuries Left: The Old Prison, a notable part of the Citadel, offers a poignant look into Gozo's penal history