Victoria, also known as Rabat, is the capital of Gozo. The name Rabat is more traditional, having been used since the reign of the Phoenicians. At the end of the 19th century, the city was renamed to the name Victoria as it is used today, in honour of the 25th anniversary of the reign of Queen Victoria of Britain.
With a population of just 7,000, it is still the most populated town on Gozo. Victoria is strategically located in the centre of the island, which is why the city has become a hub for services, administration, education and healthcare.
Cittadella
Victoria is dominated by the hilltop Cittadella, which is the biggest tourist attraction of this historic city. From the walls of Cittadella, you can get a unique view of literally the whole of Gozo. Interestingly, it is from here that you can see the sea on all sides of the world. With good visibility you can see as far as neighbouring Sicily.
The history of Cittadella dates back to the 9th century, when Arabs were involved in its construction. In the 16th century it was heavily damaged during a Turkish raid. Medieval Cittadella will delight you with its well-preserved fortifications and charming narrow stone streets.
As you enter the complex, you won't miss the small square with the cathedral, which took on its Baroque appearance in the early 18th century.
Entrance fees and opening hours
Cittadella is free to explore, but allow at least an hour to explore the free sections.
The streets and walls of the citadel are open 24/7.
Admission is only charged to the Visitor Centre and all museums (Museum of Archeology, Gran Castello Historic House, Nature Museum, Old Prison, Citadel Visitor Centre). An adult ticket costs €5 and can be purchased on site or online at heritagemalta.mt.
Victoria City Centre
Just below the walls of Cittadella is Victoria's downtown, represented by Republic Street and Independence Square, which houses, among other things, the official tourist centre. The square is dominated by St. James Church, lush greenery, and traditional markets in the morning.
Near the square, be sure to visit the 17th-century Baroque St George's Basilica. Admission is free. As well as Cittadella, you can come across many churches dating from the 17th and 18th centuries as you wander around Victoria.
Accommodation in Victoria
Victoria is the centre of the island of Gozo, from where all the bus routes radiate out in all directions to the coast. Therefore, it seems to be the best place to stay if you don't have a rental car on Gozo.
In Victoria you'll find mainly smaller guesthouses, apartments and boutique hotels with prices between 60 eur and 80 eur. We pick the best rated accommodation in central Victoria.
Transport and parking
There is a central bus station right in the centre (location on google.com/maps). Almost all bus routes to Gozo start and end here, see the Transport chapter for more information.
There are two free car parks near the bus station and you can also park for free along all streets in Victoria.
However, it is common to spend more than 20 minutes looking for a free parking space and end up having to park on the outskirts of the city and walk to Cittadella.
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