Inland Sea: Gozo's Submarine Wonder

The Inland Sea, also known as Qawra in Maltese, is a captivating seawater lagoon on the island of Gozo. It's linked to the open Mediterranean Sea by an 80-meter-long natural tunnel carved through the cliffs. This geological wonder is believed to have originated from a sea cave formed by a fault in the limestone, whose roof eventually collapsed.The lagoon itself is relatively shallow, with a pebble and rock bottom. The tunnel starts at a depth of around 6 meters, descending to about 15 meters midway, and reaching a maximum depth of 25 meters at the exit to the open sea. Divers are treated to unique lighting effects and diverse marine life, including sponges and corals, along the tunnel walls. Outside the tunnel, the seabed drops to depths of over 35 meters, revealing reefs teeming with fish. Jacques Cousteau reportedly considered the Inland Sea one of his top ten dives.Besides diving, the Inland Sea is popular for boat tours that take visitors through the tunnel to admire the towering cliffs and nearby attractions like Fungus Rock. The picturesque setting includes fishermen's huts and a small bar offering refreshments.