Malta Opens a Deep-Water Archaeological Park

In 2023 a deep-water underwater archaeological park opened off Xlendi Bay in the southwest of Gozo, the second largest island of the Maltese archipelago. Its main attraction, a Phoenician ship from around the 7th century BC, lies more than 100 metres down and is considered one of the oldest known shipwrecks in the Mediterranean.

The park was created by Heritage Malta, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage and the University of Malta. It protects not only the amphorae and cargo of the ship but also the natural rock formations on the seabed.

Only technical divers with the right training can dive to the wreck, as diving at this depth is dangerous. For everyone else, Heritage Malta offers virtual tours in several languages.

How to get to Gozo

A ferry runs to Gozo from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta to Mġarr, and the crossing takes about 25 minutes. Xlendi Bay, with its small beach and restaurants, is a popular spot for recreational diving and snorkelling.