New & now
WATCH: 69 years later! Archive footage shows a forgotten side of Gozo
What a throwback!

Kim Vella

Ever thought what our sister island looked like back in the 50s?

Well, thanks to this newly unearthed compilation of archive footage, you won’t have to wonder anymore!

The video, uploaded by a certain Brian Azzopardi, perfectly depicts the slow pace of life Gozitans enjoyed a couple of decades ago.

Couple that with the island’s unique traditions, culture, and people – all of which are clearly exhibited in the video – and you’ve got heaven-on-earth.

The footage even features the iconic Mgarr Harbour, looking much calmer (and greener).

Simple day-to-day tasks that were the norm back then seem absurd nowadays!

You can spot mothers and daughters transporting goods by balancing large baskets on their heads, women making some traditional bizzilla, and nanniet riding donkeys.

L-Ghajn tal-Hasselin was, back then, rife with activity, as farmers, hunters, and fishermen took to the popular spot to wash their clothes.

The beautiful Ramla Bay also makes an appearance – although it seems to have been covered in pebbles rather than sand.

Which part of Gozo is your favourite?

10th November 2022


Kim Vella
Written by
Kim Vella
A highly curious explorer always looking to find her next adventure. Kim loves sharing her experiences and what's happening on the Maltese Islands. When not writing, you’ll probably find her playing around with some clay or somewhere surrounded by trees. She's always up for listening to people's stories about anything to do with nature, a passion project or issue you feel needs tending to.

You may also like...
New & now
New & now
This is the third time the BBC Concert Orchestra is organising a concert here in Malta.

Emma Galea
New & now
New & now
Did you know Qrendi has its very own World War II underground civilian shelter?

Kim Vella
New & now
New & now
Casa Ipollito has now been abandoned for 100 years.

Emma Galea
New & now