Summer in Malta is not just about the beach. With so many incredible historic attractions all around, it would be a pity to miss out! Dragging the kids away from their buckets and spade is a challenge, I admit, but sometimes, we all need a break from the sand, even if it’s just for a few hours. 

In my quest to teach my half-Maltese children all about the heritage of my home country, I have always made it a point to include visits to some historic sites while on holiday here. The promise of ice-cream at the end of the tour does help to encourage them to turn their back on the beach, although I find that by the end of the site visit such a bribe would not even be necessary.

This time, we cross over to the sister isle to take in its highest fortified city: The Citadel.

Rising steeply on a hill overlooking the capital Rabat (Victoria), the Citadel (or Cittadella as it is known in Maltese) dominates the skyline of Malta’s sister island Gozo. The fortified citadel dates back to the late medieval era, and for centuries served as a sanctuary from attack by Berber corsairs and Saracens. In fact, until 1637, the entire population of Gozo was required by law to spend the night within its walls. Today, there are only a couple of families living in the Citadel. 

Recently restored to its former glory and now sporting a new visitor centre with an award-winning audio-visual presentation, the Citadel is a wonder to explore. 

Small and entirely car-free, it packs in a number of museums including the Museum of Archaeology, the Folklore Museum and the Gozo Nature Museum. All are small and perfectly formed, just about the right size to keep the children engaged before their attention wanders elsewhere. 

Don’t miss stepping inside the incredible 17th century grain silos, happily empty these days. Originally constructed by the Knights of St John, they were later used during the British period (post 1800) as water tanks supplying water to Rabat and several other towns and villages. This system was still in use until 2004. 

The Gozo Cathedral dominates the square as soon as you enter the Citadel. Built between 1697 and 1711 on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Juno, the cathedral’s main attraction is its tromp l’oeil dome, a masterpiece of artistic skill that fools many a first-time visitor.

Walking up the hill might leave you breathless, but the views from the ramparts are simply breathtaking. 

Ben says: I loved the audio-visual presentation - like a movie on all four walls around you. It was truly amazing. Whenever we go there, we always buy the bobbin lace bookmarks from a very nice lady. 9/10

Eloise says: I adore this place. We’ve already been twice and I want to go again. Can I say 11/10?

Mum says: The Citadel is the perfect little excursion. Compact and small enough to visit quite quickly. And yes, they do sell ice-creams in the cafes within the fortifications, should the need arise. It’s pushchair and wheelchair friendly too.