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11 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 26 JUNE 2026 CULTURE summer in Gozo can take in sweeping views of the island, from village domes and countryside to the surrounding sea. Beyond Victoria, Gozo's villag- es and heritage sites add depth to the summer experience. Ġgantija Temples in Xagħra, among the island's most important archaeo- logical sites, offer a link to Gozo's prehistoric past. Ta' Pinu Sanctu- ary, set in the western country- side, is one of the island's most recognisable spiritual landmarks. The Xewkija Rotunda, coastal towers, old chapels, salt pans and traditional streets all help tell the island's story in different ways. Summer evenings bring anoth- er side of Gozo to life. This is the season of village feasts, fireworks, band marches, street decorations and celebrations in honour of pa- tron saints. Each village brings its own identity to the festa calendar, blending religious tradition with music, colour and community spirit. For visitors, attending a village feast is one of the most au- thentic ways to experience Gozo in summer. The wider events calendar also fills the island with concerts, exhi- bitions, food events and open-air entertainment. From lively har- bour evenings to performances in village squares, Gozo's summer nights are made for staying out. After a day at the beach, there is always the possibility of music under the stars, a walk along the promenade, dinner by the sea or a drink in a local square. Food is central to the summer experience. A day by the water calls for ħobż biż-żejt, the much- loved Maltese sandwich prepared with crusty bread, tomatoes, ol- ives, capers, tuna and olive oil. Fresh seafood, Gozitan platters, local wine, ripe watermelon, peaches, melons and prickly pears all form part of the season's fla- vour. Whether you are dining in Marsalforn, Xlendi, Mġarr, Vic- toria or a quiet village restaurant, summer in Gozo is always closely tied to simple, generous Mediter- ranean food. What makes Gozo special in summer is not simply that everything feels close, but that every part of the island de- serves time. You may reach a beach, a temple, a village square or a sunset viewpoint within a short drive, yet each experience is best enjoyed without rushing. A day trip can only offer a glimpse, while a longer stay allows you to swim, explore, dine, attend a vil- lage feast and still have time to let the island's summer rhythm settle in. As summer approaches, Gozo invites you to look beyond a brief stop and make time for the island properly. Stay a little longer, ex- plore at a more natural pace, and let each day reveal a different side of the island. From beaches, boat trips and coastal views to cul- ture, village feasts, local food and evenings filled with music and tradition, Gozo offers a holiday with colour, character and lasting memories. Small in size, yet rich in experience, Gozo is an island that deserves more than a day trip, whatever the season. A summer holiday in Gozo is also an invitation to get out on the water. Boat trips around the coast reveal views that cannot be fully appreciated from land Mgarr ix-xini Festa fireworks (Photo by Kovexdi)