Gozo
Experience Gozo's magical Citadel by candlelight at Lejl Imkebbes this weekend
The first of its kind... and it will be momentous!

Melanie Drury

Experience the magic of Gozo's famed Citadella by candlelight on Saturday 3rd November. As soon as the sun sets, the medieval fortified city will be alight with over 30,000 candles - a site that's never been seen before! See the city come alive with various live shows and intriguing attractions offered freely to the public. The event Lejl Imkebbes will be the first of its kind, yet it is set to be momentous.

The Citadel city fortress, perched atop a hill within the capital city of Victoria, is a city where time falls into insignificance. Beginning as a Bronze Age acropolis, it grew into a medieval fortified city, where all Gozitan affairs were managed. Yet, the Citadel also lovingly protected the Gozitans from 13th century corsair raids.

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Much of the city is well-preserved and its numerous attractions and places of interest are remarkable. Think a folklore museum housed in one of the oldest, authentic historic townhouses in the city, or the old prison with its prisoners' graffiti. Add to that the stunning views of the whole island from the bastions and you can appreciate how truly splendid it all is.

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With the sad cancellation of the much anticipated Birgu by Candlelight event this year due to stormy weather, one might appreciate this festival of light even more, a Mediterranean Diwali of sorts: Lejl Imkebbes. A collaboration between the Ministry Of Gozo, VisitMalta and VisitGozo, the beautiful, historic Citadel will be transformed with the wonderful magical light of candles.

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Expect historic re-enactments, extended and cheaper museum entrances, access to other public venues of interest, live entertainment and children's activities, as well as food stalls offering Maltese and Indian cuisines and other food. Will you be going?


Melanie Drury
Written by
Melanie Drury
Melanie was born and raised in Malta and has spent a large chunk of her life travelling solo around the world. Back on the island with a new outlook, she realised just how much wealth her little island home possesses.

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