Gozo Cathedral Guide
A Baroque Masterpiece: Explore the Grandeur of Gozo Cathedral Guide
Discover the architectural splendor of Gozo Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption, a magnificent Baroque church located in the heart of the Citadel in Victoria (Rabat), Gozo. This impressive cathedral is a prominent landmark and a testament to the island's rich religious history and artistic heritage. Its stunning interior, including the famous trompe-l'oeil ceiling, is sure to leave a lasting impression. The Gozo Cathedral stands on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Juno, which was later converted into a Christian church. The present cathedral was built between 1697 and 1711, designed by Lorenzo Gafà, the same architect who designed Mdina Cathedral. It replaced an earlier church that was damaged during the 1693 Sicily earthquake. The cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and is a symbol of Gozo's strong Catholic faith. Visitors can explore the cathedral's impressive interior, admire the Baroque architecture, and marvel at the trompe-l'oeil ceiling painting, which creates the illusion of a dome. The Cathedral Museum, located nearby, houses a collection of religious artifacts and historical documents. While in Victoria, be sure to sample some traditional Gozitan cuisine, such as Gozitan ftira (a type of pizza) or rabbit stew, at local restaurants and cafes.
Transportation
The Gozo Cathedral is located within the Citadel in Victoria (Rabat), Gozo. From the Mgarr Ferry Terminal, you can take a bus to Victoria Bus Station. Several bus routes serve Victoria, including routes 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 322. From the bus station, it's a short walk uphill to the Citadel. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the ferry terminal directly to the Citadel.