Wardija Punic Temple: A Glimpse into Gozo's Ancient Past
Explore the ancient Wardija Punic Temple in Gozo: a historic sanctuary with stunning views, offering a glimpse into Malta's rich Punic heritage.
The Wardija Punic Temple, located near San Lawrenz on Gozo's southwest coast, offers a fascinating look into the island's Punic history. Dating back to the 3rd century BC, this archaeological site features a rock-hewn chamber, water reservoir, and well, showcasing the religious practices of the Punic people and later Roman influences.
A brief summary to Wardija Punic Temple
- 25PP+MR3, San Lawarenz, MT
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the temple can be uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Victoria (Rabat), Gozo's capital, take bus route 311 or 312 towards San Lawrenz. Get off at the Pawluzzu bus stop in San Lawrenz, which is the closest stop to the temple. From there, walk along the road in the same direction the bus was traveling for about 200m, then turn left onto a smaller road heading towards the coast. Follow this road for approximately 1.5km. The temple is located on Ras il-Wardija promontory. A single bus ticket costs €2.50 and is valid for two hours, allowing for transfers. Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver.
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Taxi
From Mġarr Ferry Terminal, a taxi to Wardija Punic Temple costs approximately €12-€20. The journey is about 10km and takes around 15-20 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the ferry terminal. Alternatively, from San Lawrenz, a taxi to Victoria costs around €4.
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Walking
From San Lawrenz, the Wardija Punic Temple is approximately a 45-minute walk. Head west from the village square, following the signs towards Dwejra. Continue along Triq il-Wileġ, then turn left onto Triq ir-Ras. Follow this road, which eventually becomes a dirt track, to the Ras il-Wardija promontory where the temple is located. Be aware that the route goes adjacent to sharp cliff drops.
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