Xerri's Grotto: A Subterranean Wonder
Explore a hidden gem in Gozo: Xerri's Grotto, a family-owned cave featuring stunning formations and a unique history dating back to 1923.
Venture beneath a private residence in Xagħra, Gozo, to explore Xerri's Grotto, a hidden cave unveiled in 1923 when Anthony Xerri was digging a well. This accidental discovery revealed a subterranean world adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Descend a narrow, 10-meter spiral staircase—originally the well shaft—to enter the grotto. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 19°C, offering a cool escape. Family-guided tours illuminate the cave's history, geological formations, and the shapes resembling animals, such as a tortoise, vulture, giraffe, and elephant ears. During World War II, the Xerri family expanded the cave, using it as a shelter from air raids. Today, electric lights illuminate the 30-meter circular tour, showcasing calcified tree roots and the replacement well used for drinking water. Note that the narrow staircase may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cave floor can be uneven and the spiral staircase is narrow.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photographs.
- Check the official Facebook page for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially during the off-season.
A brief summary to Xerri's Grotto
- reet, gozo Xagħra XRA1621, Xaghra, MT
- +35627552733
Getting There
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Walking
From the Xagħra bus stop, walk straight down the street towards the center of Xagħra. Continue for about 500 meters until you reach a junction. Turn left onto Triq il-Knisja, follow for about 300 meters; Xerri's Grotto will be on your right. Look for signs leading to the grotto in Xaghra.
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Public Transport
Buses regularly travel to Xagħra from Victoria, Mgarr, and other locations on Gozo. From the Xagħra bus terminal, it is a short walk to Xerri's Grotto. Single fares typically cost around €2.
