New & now
Hidden architecture! Zurrieq water reservoir’s interior feels straight out of a movie set
The reservoir has a mammoth capacity of one million gallons or 4,500,000 litres

Francesca Vella

The page 8000 Years of Water, dedicated to recounting untold stories of water production in Malta, has shared a stunning photo of the water reservoir found in Nigret, Zurrieq. The beautiful arches shown in the image are referred to as an open-spandrel arch system constructed to support the reinforced concrete roof.

Built in 1934, the Nigret reservoir was constructed to serve the water needs of the surrounding areas and boasts an impressive capacity of one million gallons (4,500,000 liters). Over time, the site took on a dual purpose, becoming a beloved recreational spot for locals. Today, it features a bocci (bowls) club and a playing field offering breathtaking views of Malta and the sea. The area is fondly referred to as 'Fuq il-Gibjun', meaning 'on the reservoir'.

This remarkable structure not only serves as a testament to Malta’s engineering history but also as a communal hub above ground and functionality below!

Have you ever been to ‘Fuq il-Gibjun’?

5th December 2024


Francesca Vella
Written by
Francesca Vella
Francesca has always felt most at home in a cinema or theatre, particularly if musicals are involved. She loves to read, write, and share about her experiences of both the fictional and the real world.

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