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Cathedral of the Assumption: A Gozitan Masterpiece

Discover Baroque architecture and illusionistic art at Gozo's Cathedral of the Assumption, a historical landmark in Victoria's Citadel.

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The Cathedral of the Assumption, located within the Citadel of Victoria, Gozo, is a Baroque architectural gem designed by Lorenzo Gafà. Built between 1697 and 1711, it stands on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Juno and later a Byzantine church. Its most striking feature is the trompe-l'œil painting on the ceiling, creating the illusion of a dome.

A brief summary to Cathedral of the Assumption

Local tips

  • Visit the Cathedral Museum to see a collection of religious artifacts and learn about the cathedral's history.
  • Take time to admire the trompe-l'œil painting on the ceiling, which creates the illusion of a dome.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the Citadel to enjoy panoramic views of Gozo.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Victoria Bus Terminus, walk towards the Citadel. The walk is approximately 10 minutes uphill. Enter the Citadel through the main gate and follow the signs to the Cathedral, located in the heart of the Citadel. Note that the Citadel is car-free.

  • Public Transport

    Take any bus that goes to Victoria Bus Terminus. From the terminus, walk towards the Citadel, which is approximately 10 minutes uphill. Local bus tickets cost €2 for a two-hour ticket in the summer (July to September) and €1.50 during the rest of the year.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at the Mġarr Gozo Ferry Terminal and Victoria Bus Terminus. A taxi from the ferry terminal to the Citadel will cost approximately €15-€20. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt operate on the island.

  • Driving

    Drive towards Victoria. The most convenient and spacious car park is located next to the main bus station, offering free parking. From there, it is a short 10-minute walk to the Citadel. Alternatively, there is a parking area just outside the entrance to the Citadel with a small charge of €2.

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Discover more about Cathedral of the Assumption

The Cathedral of the Assumption, also known as the Gozo Cathedral, is the main church of Gozo, Malta, serving as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Gozo. Situated in the heart of the Citadel in Victoria, the cathedral's location has been a place of worship since prehistoric times. Initially, the site housed a Roman temple dedicated to Juno. Following the Christianization of Malta and Gozo, the temple was converted into a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Later, a Byzantine church was likely built on the site, but it was destroyed during Arab rule. After the Arabs were expelled, another church was constructed. The earliest reference to a parish church within the Cittadella dates back to 1299. The church was enlarged during the 15th and 16th centuries but was sacked by the Ottomans in 1551. It reopened in September 1554, only to be damaged again by the earthquake of 1693. This damage led to the decision to demolish the old building and construct a new church. The foundation stone of the present church was laid on September 21, 1697. Designed by the Maltese architect Lorenzo Gafà, the church was built in Baroque style and inaugurated on August 14, 1711. It was dedicated on October 11, 1716, and elevated to a cathedral in 1864 when the Diocese of Gozo was formed. The cathedral is designed in the shape of a Latin cross, with a façade similar to that of the Church of the Gesù in Rome. A tall belfry with five bells stands at the back, instead of the usual two at the front. Inside, the trompe-l'œil painting on the flat ceiling creates an illusion of a dome. The cathedral also houses a revered statue of Santa Marija (The Assumption of Our Lady), made in Rome in 1897. Visitors can explore the cathedral's interior, admire the religious artwork, and experience its peaceful atmosphere. The Cathedral Museum, inaugurated in 1979 and renovated in 2022, features ecclesiastical silverware, artifacts from the ancient Roman temple, and medieval tombstones.

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