Gharb
The name of the village of Għarb has an Arabic origin which means west, since this small village is located on the western part of the island.
A walk around this lovely village will provide you with the opportunity to see traditional limestone houses with typical Maltese balconies and stonework. In the centre of the village, there is a Basilica, which is dedicated to the Visitation of Our Lady to St Elizabeth.
Religious places
Ta’ Pinu Shrine, which is one of the nicest Basilicas in Gozo, is part of the village of Għarb. Unlike other basilicas in Gozo, Ta’ Pinu Basilica is not covered with marble work, but the natural limestone is visible and has quite a few stone works around the church. Make no mistake, it is no boring church as it is decorated in a nice manner which according to many locals makes it the best church to attend service in. In the pjazza in front of the magnificent basilica, one can admire works of art made from mosaics depicting religious pictures.
T’Għammar Hill is located just in from of Ta’ Pinu Shrine. It is a hill with 14 statues, each of them depicting a station from the Via Sagra. Once you get at the top of the hill make sure to spend some time admiring the panoramic views of Gozo from this lovely point.
San Dimitri Chapel, is a small chapel in the limits of Għarb, which unfortunately is no longer open for service or to see from the inside. However, it is an amazing small chapel set in a rural area which is much worth of a visit. Getting to the chapel on foot would offer spectacular walks which are not worth missing. Right next to the chapel, one can also find picnic benches, where one would be able to stop for a quick bite or snack whilst enjoying the amazing views surrounding the area.
Natural Places
Wied il-Mielah is a valley found in the limits of the village of Għarb. It is rich in flora, making it an excellent place to enjoy a walk, especially during sunset and perhaps enjoying the moment where the sun disappears into the sea from this place. In Wied il-Mielaħ one can find a natural stone window which is still very much in tact and is worth a view.
Activities around the year
- Feast of Visitation of Our Lady to St Elizabeth, celebrated on the 1st weekend of July.
- Kite and wind festival – where there would be kites of different sizes and shapes flying across San Dimitri area.