Gozo Nature Museum

What makes it special

The displays open today are on the upper floor. A screened presentation there covers Gozo's terrestrial Natura 2000 sites, the fragile habitats that hold plants and animals found only on these islands. It also introduces the important seabird species that breed on Gozo.

One room is given to the Cittadella itself, the historic fortified city around the museum, which carries the same protection. Its old walls shelter rare plants and local wildlife, including several species of bat.

The museum's wider theme is Gozo's natural resources and how islanders have used them. The building is three interconnected houses from the early 17th century, restored in the 20th century and then turned into the museum.

Visiting

This museum is inside the Cittadella, the walled citadel in Victoria. From Mġarr Harbour, the ferry port, take bus 301 to Victoria or drive following the signs, then walk up into the Cittadella and cross Cathedral Square.

The museum is in the narrow alleys behind the old Courts of Justice, on Triq il-Kwartier ta' San Martin, a short walk from the square.

Start upstairs, then take the stairs back down through the old houses and finish outside in the garden at the rear.

Tips

Walk the Cittadella's lanes and viewpoints first, then come down to the museum. Afterwards, pick one more open site inside the walls.

There is seating indoors and out, so the museum makes a good rest stop partway round the citadel.