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Xwejni Salt Pans: A Living Gozitan Tradition

Discover the ancient art of salt harvesting at Gozo's Xwejni Salt Pans, a picturesque landscape shaped by centuries of tradition and natural beauty.

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The Xwejni Salt Pans, carved into the Gozitan coast near Żebbuġ, offer a glimpse into a centuries-old tradition of salt harvesting. These checkerboard-like pools, stretching for about 3 kilometers, have been used for over 350 years, with families like the Cinis maintaining the craft since the 1860s.

A brief summary to Xwejni Salt pans

  • 36JR+6C 馬爾他, Żebbuġ, MT

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months (mid-May to September) to witness the salt harvesting process in action.
  • Purchase authentic Gozitan sea salt directly from the local producers as a unique souvenir.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Xwejni Bay for swimming and relaxation.
  • Respect the environment by avoiding stepping on the salt pans.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Victoria (Rabat), take bus 310 to the Xwejni stop. The bus runs approximately every 30 minutes. From the Xwejni bus stop, it's a 10-minute walk along the coast to the salt pans. A single bus ticket costs €2.50 in summer, €2.00 in winter, and €3.00 at night.

  • Walking

    From Marsalforn, the Xwejni Salt Pans are approximately a 30-minute walk. Head west along the coast, following the signs for Xwejni Bay. The salt pans are located just beyond the bay.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available throughout Gozo. A taxi from Victoria to the Xwejni Salt Pans will cost approximately €15-€20. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Xwejni Salt pans

The Xwejni Salt Pans are more than just a picturesque landscape; they're a testament to Gozo's enduring connection to the sea and its resources. For generations, Gozitan families have meticulously harvested salt from these coastal pans, employing techniques passed down through centuries. The pans themselves are shallow, rectangular pools carved into the limestone rock, creating a unique checkerboard pattern that extends along the coast. The process is simple yet effective: seawater is channeled into the pans, where the sun and wind work their magic, evaporating the water and leaving behind glistening crystals of salt. Harvesting typically occurs from mid-May to September, with the salt collected manually using traditional methods. The harvested salt is then dried and stored in caves carved into the coastal rock before being sold locally. Visiting the Xwejni Salt Pans offers a unique opportunity to witness this living heritage firsthand. You can observe the salt-making process, purchase authentic Gozitan sea salt directly from the families who produce it, and explore the rugged coastal scenery. The area also provides excellent opportunities for photography, with the contrasting colors of the white salt, the blue sea, and the surrounding landscape creating stunning visuals. While in the area, consider exploring other nearby attractions such as Xwejni Bay, Wied il-Għasri (Ghasri Valley), and the Qolla l-Bajda Battery. Remember to respect the environment and avoid walking directly on the salt pans to prevent contamination.

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