Gżira – Gzira

When literally translated to Maltese, Gzira means ‘Island’. It’s a central town with lots of things to see and do and a stone throw away from other major cities and attractions. In this article, we will list all the things you should know about this wonderful destination for your next holiday in Malta.

Gzira Parish Church Panorama

Why stay in Gzira?

Simple. It’s centrally and very conveniently located close to the night clubs of Sliema, the views of the capital and incredible swimming spots. Gzira is also home to so many different restaurants and bars

Inside Manoel Island Gzira

History of Gzira

Like every Maltese town or city, Gzira is rich with history which dates back to the times of when the knights lived in Malta.

As referred to in the introduction, Gzira ‘the island’ is named like this due to the Manuel Island which sits in the middle of the harbour in Gzira.

The fortification on Manuel Island, better known as Fort Manuel, was built by Grandmaster Manuel de Villa back in 1726. But the history on this little piece of land goes back even further when in 1634, Grandmaster Jean-Paul Lascaris built a quarantine hospital. This hospital received patients with plagues and cholera who came aboard ships in times of war.

Gzira also played an important role during the second world war. At the time, Malta was under British rule and given its unique geographical location, Gzira was used as a naval base for the British.
It was around this period, in the middle of the century when the streets of Gzira started to be synonymous with one particular ‘leisurely’ activity. Prostitution has rooted itself into Gzira’s history and in some particular streets, the fame for carnal pleasures still stand to this very day.

The residents of this town are big football fans. Gzira United has its own football ground.
Manoel Island view from the air
Gzira sits in a perfect spot on the Maltese islands.
It’s considered a central town with a unique position so close to the Mediterranean sea. The location is, in fact, one of the real gems which make Gzira so unique. Sliema, which is one of the most famous touristic hotspots in Malta, is only a couple of kilometres away. Sliema and Gzira actually touch with each other and you can easily cross from one to the other on foot. Winter days in Malta can offer you some beautiful weather, so perhaps, a nice walk from Gzira to the Sliema waterfront would be a brilliant idea.
Gzira also sees a lot of students especially during winter months, this is due to the fact that the University of Malta is located so close to the town.
The capital of Malta, Valletta (which should definitely be on your list of places to visit while in Malta) is also a short ride away.
Swimming at Manoel Island Gzira

What to do in Gzira

Here is a list of things to do in Gzira:

  • Have a nice swim at Manuel Island
  • Visit the Gzira Harbour
  • Walk by the Duck Village
  • Take a Game of Thrones Tour. (Fort Manuel features in the episode when Ned Stark gets his head chopped off by orders of the cruel king!)
  • Visit Fort Manuel
  • And if you’re visiting Gzira anytime between May and July, make sure you take a ride at the local Luna Park.

Contact

email
gzira.lc@gov.mt
address
283/1 Rue D'Argens, Il-Gżira GZR 1364
phone
2134 1034, 2132 2157, 2701 3021