Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is the island's main fishing village, and its harbour is filled with luzzus - traditional wooden boats painted in blue, yellow and red with the Eye of Osiris on the bow, a protective symbol inherited from Phoenician practice and still painted on today. The Sunday market along the waterfront is the big event, running from fish stalls at the eastern end through produce, honey, clothes and souvenirs, and it is followed by the local ritual of a long seafood lunch at one of the harbour restaurants. During the week the village is quieter and the boats sit undisturbed for photographs.

History

On the hilltop of Tas-Silġ above the village is a sanctuary used from the Neolithic to the fourth century AD, long linked to the temple of Juno described by Cicero, and medieval sailing guides from as early as the 13th century name the harbour; Horatio Nelson and Emma Hamilton stayed here from April to June 1800 (Wikipedia, Marsaxlokk).

What's there

• The luzzu boats - painted hulls and protective eyes filling the harbour.
• Sunday fish market - the morning market along the waterfront.
• Harbour seafood lunch - the traditional follow-up to the market.
• St Peter's Pool - a natural rock swimming spot on the headland nearby.

When to go

Sunday morning is the market and the fullest experience, though also the busiest. Weekdays give the harbour calm and the boats to yourself. The market runs year round; summer adds heat and crowds, while winter mornings are crisp and local.

Things to know

The Sunday market is now heavily weighted toward tourist stalls, with the genuine fish section a smaller part at the far end - go early for that. Restaurants along the front charge accordingly and quality varies; the ones a street back are often better value. St Peter's Pool has no facilities, sharp rocks and no lifeguard, and getting in and out needs care.

Nearby

St Peter's Pool, Ghar Dalam cave and the Tarxien temples toward Valletta.