Il-Bastjun ta San Mikiel
Explore the Historic Citadel of Il-Bastjun ta San Mikiel
Cittadella Visitor Centre: Gozo's Historical Gateway
Discover Gozo's captivating history at the Cittadella Visitor Centre, your gateway to the island's ancient fortress and cultural heart.
Housed in 19th-century water reservoirs within the Cittadella ditch, the Visitor Centre offers an immersive introduction to Gozo's history. Interactive displays and a surround theatre showcase the island's evolution, nature, and military significance. A must-see before exploring the ancient fortress.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Cittadella Visitor Centre
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Tuesday
9 am-5 pm
Wednesday
9 am-5 pm
Thursday
9 am-5 pm
Friday
9 am-5 pm
Saturday
9 am-5 pm
Sunday
9 am-5 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From the Victoria Bus Station, walk northeast along Republic Street. Turn right onto Fortunato Mizzi Street, which leads directly to the Cittadella's main entrance. The Visitor Centre is located just inside the Cittadella walls, to the right. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and is mostly uphill.
Public Transport
Take any bus to the Victoria Bus Station, the main transport hub on Gozo. From the bus station, follow the walking directions to the Cittadella. A two-hour bus ticket costs €2 between July and September and €1.50 between October and June. The 301 bus operates every 30 minutes between Mgarr Ferry Terminal and Victoria.
Taxi
Taxis are available from Mġarr Harbour and other locations on Gozo. A taxi from Mġarr Harbour to the Cittadella costs approximately €10-€15. Taxis can be found at the Victoria Bus Terminus and Independence Square. Ride-hailing services like Bolt and eCabs also operate on Gozo.
Parking
The most convenient and spacious car park is located next to the main bus station, offering plenty of parking space. This free-of-charge car park is just a short 10-minute walk away from the Citadel. There is also a private parking area right outside the city walls for a small fee. Paid parking nearby the bus terminal costs €2 for the day.
Local tips
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Purchase the combo ticket for €5 to access the Visitor Centre, Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Nature Museum, Old Prisons, and Gran Castello Historic House.
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Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and make the most of your time exploring both the Visitor Centre and the Cittadella.
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Allow at least one hour to fully experience the Visitor Centre's interactive exhibits and surround theatre.
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Check the weather forecast, as the Cittadella offers stunning panoramic views, best enjoyed on a clear day.
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The Visitor Centre is accessible for persons with a disability.
Discover more about Cittadella Visitor Centre
The Cittadella Visitor Centre, located within the historic Cittadella of Victoria, Gozo, provides a fascinating starting point for exploring the island's rich heritage. Situated in two converted 1870s water reservoirs, the centre offers a modern and engaging overview of the Cittadella's and Gozo's history.The center is divided into two main areas. The first features interactive touch screens and informative panels detailing the Cittadella's evolution, natural history, military importance, ecclesiastical background and civil history. Information is available in eight languages. The second area houses a surround theatre that presents an eight-minute video on key moments in the Cittadella's millenia-long history.Before entering the ancient walls, a visit to the Visitor Centre enriches the experience, providing context to the architectural, military, and historical significance of the Cittadella. The centre also provides helpful maps and guidance for exploring other attractions in Victoria and Gozo.The Cittadella has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, around 1500 BC, and has served as the acropolis of the Punic-Roman city of Gaulos. Its strategic vantage point made it a vital defensive structure, witnessing sieges and reconstructions throughout its history. Today, the Cittadella stands as Gozo's major landmark, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's past.
A brief summary to Cittadella Visitor Centre
Use Cittadella Visitor Centre as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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