Gozo is the second largest island of the Maltese archipelago with a total area of 68.67 km² and a population of almost 32,000 inhabitants. It is a hilly territory and from the south-west to the north- west, the coast is entirely surrounded by cliffs.
The southern part of the island facing Malta, is low lying, but it rises near the coast and forms the vertical cliffs. There are a number of tourist attractions with the main ones being: (1) The Ġgantija Prehistoric Temples; (2) Dwejra; (3) Ta’ Pinu Basilica; (4) Ramla Bay; (5) the Gozo Citadel; (6) Ta’ Cenc Cliffs (Sannat); (7) Tas-Sanap Cliffs (Munxar); and (8) all local village and town centres with their Churches and chapels.
The Ġgantija Prehistoric Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the most popular site administered by Heritage Malta (the national agency for museums, conservation practice and cultural heritage).
The archaeological heritage site dates back to the period between 3,600 BC and 3,200 BC. This site has been appraised considerably with the development of a visitor centre which provides interpretation information for the site.
The Gozo Citadel has undergone major and extensive restoration works and it is now considered one of the main points of interest on the island. Gozo’s deeply religious tradition has translated itself in a number of cultural heritage sites. Among its most important monumental sites one can include its significant amount of chapels and Churches which are found all over the island.
Gozo also has a very important intangible cultural heritage which sees the island produce three international cultural festivals and three operas on an annual basis. Other important cultural events which attract a considerable number of tourists are the annual Carnival celebrations and the village festas which concentrate themselves mainly during the summer period.
Gozo is also being promoted considerably for adventure sports. Diving is a very important niche market for Gozo. Climbing is also being promoted with a number of climbing routes being opened on an annual basis by the local climbing association. Gozo also has a number of walking routes spanning the whole island.