Gozo Aqueduct

Aqueduct in Victoria (Rabat), Gozo

CC BY-SA 4.0 / George xalun

On the island of Gozo in Malta lies the striking remains of the Gozo Aqueduct — a 19th-century structure built by the British between 1839 and 1843 to transport fresh water from the springs at Għar Ilma (near Kerċem) to the capital, Victoria (Rabat). Marked by elegant arches and a commemorative obelisk near the reservoir at the Citadel's ditch, the aqueduct is both a feat of engineering and a visually compelling ruin.

Though no longer operational—replaced long ago by modern piping and pump systems—the aqueduct's remaining sections still stand as a testament to Gozo's historical effort to secure water for its population. Large parts fell into disrepair over the years, especially after storm damage in the 1980s, but parts are now subject to restoration efforts by the Cultural Heritage Directorate in Gozo.

Visiting the Gozo Aqueduct offers a dual experience: you'll enjoy quiet countryside surroundings and majestic stone architecture. On the approach to Kerċem (via Triq Il-Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II) you'll spot the distinctive arches of the aqueduct rising across fields. The area is relatively peaceful, making it ideal for a short stop or a slower walk.

While the site is not as famous as other Gozo landmarks, and often skipped on blogs about the best places to visit on Gozo, the aqueduct is a unique piece of the island's industrial and colonial heritage. For visitors interested in history, architecture or off-the-beaten-track walks, this structure blends seamlessly with Gozo's rural charm. When paired with nearby villages like Kerċem or the western countryside, the Gozo Aqueduct makes for a memorable, quieter addition to your Gozo itinerary.

How to Visit the Gozo Aqueduct

The Gozo Aqueduct lies just outside Victoria (Rabat), stretching across the open countryside between Kerċem and the outskirts of the capital. It's an easy and rewarding stop if you're exploring the island by car or on foot — a short detour from Victoria's main roads that leads straight into Gozo's rural heart.

By Car:
Driving is the easiest way to reach the aqueduct. From Victoria, follow Triq Il-Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II toward Kerċem — within minutes, you'll see the aqueduct's elegant stone arches rising above the fields. Limited parking is available by the roadside near the arches. Because the area is quiet, it's best to visit during daylight hours, when you can walk safely around and photograph the structure from multiple angles.

By Bus:
While there isn't a direct stop at the aqueduct itself, you can take a bus to Kerċem or Victoria and walk from there. Routes 313 and 301 serve the area regularly. From the Kerċem parish church, the aqueduct is about a 15-minute walk along country lanes — a pleasant stroll through Gozo's rural scenery.

On Foot or by Bike:
For active travelers, the aqueduct makes an excellent addition to a walking or cycling route from Victoria. The short 2-kilometre walk west from the Citadel follows mostly quiet roads, with views of farmland and limestone terraces along the way. It's especially lovely in spring when the fields are green and wildflowers bloom.

Visiting Tips

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photography, casting warm tones over the stone arches and surrounding countryside.
Combine Visits: Pair the aqueduct with nearby attractions such as the Citadel, Ta' Pinu Sanctuary, or the Dwejra coastal area for a half-day of exploration.
Respect the Site: Although sections of the aqueduct are accessible, it remains a fragile historic monument — avoid climbing the arches.
Restoration Work: Some parts are under restoration, so fenced-off areas may occasionally limit access.

What to Expect

The Gozo Aqueduct offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience that blends natural beauty with colonial-era engineering. As you walk beneath its limestone arches and look back toward Victoria's skyline, you'll gain a new appreciation for how this small island once solved one of its biggest challenges — bringing fresh water to its people. It's a quick visit that adds depth, context, and quiet charm to any Gozo itinerary.

The Gozo Aqueduct appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Victoria (Rabat), Gozo!

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