This day was a real contrast after the monumental stone walls of Valletta and Birgu, as we traveled to the southeast of the island to explore the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk. This location showed us a completely different side of Malta. In the quiet bay further away, we were finally able to surrender to the proximity of the sea and the authentic Mediterranean lifestyle. Although the journey was a little longer, the view made up for everything: the colorful boats rocking on the sparkling water and the salty sea air immediately enchanted us with this fantastically beautiful coast.
Marsaxlokk, whose name is made up of the words “Marsa” (port) and “Xlokk” (southeast wind, the Maltese name for the sirocco), is the most important fishing center in Malta. The bay is dominated by traditional, brightly painted boats called luzzu (yellow, blue, red and green). If you look closely at these boats, you can see a pair of painted eyes on each of their bows: the Eye of Osiris, an ancient Phoenician talisman believed to protect fishermen from dangers at sea and evil spirits. The village’s Sunday market is world-famous, but it’s also worth visiting during the week, as the restaurants lining the coast offer the freshest catch of the day, sourced directly from the fishermen.
The area around the village is also extremely rich in natural attractions, as some of the island’s most beautiful rocky shores are located nearby. A short hike takes you to St. Peter’s Pool, a natural, horseshoe-shaped limestone pool where the brave can jump from high cliffs into the crystal-clear, azure water. This area has retained its wild, romantic character, where the yellow limestone cliffs meet the deep blue sea, creating a stunning visual experience. Marsaxlokk thus offers both the proximity of traditional Maltese culture and the undisturbed tranquility of nature, away from the noise of cities.
