One of the oldest villages in Malta is home to ancient churches, scenic windmills and the breathtakingly beautiful Blue Grotto caves.
Żurrieq is one of Malta’s oldest villages and has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. The village is a treasure for archaeological adventurers, with ruins dating back thousands of years to Phoenician, Roman and Greek rule. Żurrieq also features one of the island’s most spectacular natural wonders: the Blue Grotto.
The Blue Grotto is a collection of sea caverns just across from the island of Filfla. Arrive before midday to catch a remarkable glimpse of the turquoise waters reflecting onto the caves’ rocky exterior. View the beautiful shades of blue from the cliffs or get a closer look with a tour boat trip starting from Wied iz-Żurrieq harbour. Make sure you call ahead to confirm your trip, as tours can be cancelled due to bad weather. Scuba dive or snorkel around the caves to discover the beautiful underwater flora that flourishes below or embark on a rock climbing adventure up the cave walls. Reach the Blue Grotto by tourist or local bus to Wied iz-Żurrieq, approximately 2 miles (3 kilometres) from the centre of Żurrieq.
Discover Żurrieq’s archaeological and historical attractions dotted all over the village. See the Wardija Tower, one of 13 towers that guarded the coast in the 17th century. Visit five 18th-century windmills, including Tax-Xarolla, which has been restored to its original working order and now keeps the local wheat farming tradition alive.
Żurrieq is home to some of the oldest churches and chapels on the island. Check out the Parish Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria, established in the 17th century. The ancient church features frescoes and other artworks by local and international artists.
Żurrieq is located on the island’s south coast. Visit in the summer to experience an energetic Mediterranean adventure or visit in the off-peak tourist seasons to take in Zurrieq’s sights with peace and tranquility. Zurrieq is well connected to the other cities on the island by road and the village is on local bus routes.
