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Gozo Aqueduct: A Testament to 19th-Century Engineering

Explore Gozo's historic Aqueduct: A British-era engineering marvel offering picturesque views and a glimpse into the island's past.

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The Gozo Aqueduct, constructed by the British between 1839 and 1843, stands as a historical landmark on the island of Gozo. This impressive structure of stone arches was built to transport fresh water from Għar Ilma to the capital city of Victoria. Although now in ruins, the remaining arches offer a glimpse into the island's history and provide a picturesque scene against the Gozitan countryside.

A brief summary to Gozo Aqueduct

  • 26XH+HG3, Triq Il-Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II, Kerċem, MT

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the aqueduct can be uneven in some areas.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities near the aqueduct.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of nearby historical sites in Victoria for a full cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Victoria, the Gozo Aqueduct is approximately a 20-minute walk. Head west on Triq Il-Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II. Sidewalks are available along the route. Note that the sidewalks in Gozo may not be fully wheelchair accessible.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes pass near the Gozo Aqueduct. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location to the bus stop closest to Triq Il-Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II. A single daytime ticket costs €2.50. Purchase tickets directly from the bus driver.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Gozo. A taxi ride from Mġarr ferry port to Victoria typically costs around €15. From Victoria, the taxi fare to the Gozo Aqueduct will be approximately €10-€15, depending on the taxi service and time of day.

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Discover more about Gozo Aqueduct

The Gozo Aqueduct is a remarkable structure built by the British during their colonial rule in Malta, between 1839 and 1843. Its primary purpose was to transport fresh water from the natural spring at Għar Ilma, meaning "Cave of Water," near Kerċem, to a reservoir within the Citadel in Victoria. This ambitious project aimed to provide a reliable water supply to the island's capital. The aqueduct consists of a series of stone arches that stretch across the Gozitan landscape. Its design is reminiscent of Roman aqueducts, which may lead some visitors to mistakenly attribute its construction to an earlier period. The structure was rendered obsolete with the introduction of modern plumbing and electrical pumps, leading to its abandonment and subsequent decay. Today, the Gozo Aqueduct stands as a ruin, with sections lost to collapses over the years. Despite its state of disrepair, the remaining arches are considered a valuable historical site and have become an iconic part of Gozo's identity. The Government has been working to stabilize and restore the aqueduct since 2021. Visitors can walk along the paths that lead to the aqueduct and appreciate panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The site is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset, when the warm light enhances the aqueduct's visual appeal.

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