Munxar combines a distinctive valley landscape with walking trails and a parish church whose history dates back to 1957. Beyond the church, views open out over the open sea; the surrounding area also has trails that pass through Munxar and lead to Ix-Xlendi Bay. When choosing where to stay, you can focus on different aspects of the area, from its landscape to its village history.
Valleys, Viewpoints and Trails
Munxar lies between the sloping sides of two parallel valleys. Behind the parish church, a rocky promontory on the Il-Munxar side forms Wied tal-Għanċija, the Għanċija Valley. The area behind the church offers views of the open sea and is well suited to leisurely walks. There are also numerous trails in all directions across the landscape around Munxar.
The Sanap Cliffs offer a perspective of their own, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. A scenic trail leads from the cliffs to Xlendi Bay. This is distinct from a hiking route that passes through Munxar and then reaches Ix-Xlendi Bay. Local trail conditions can change, so check them before setting out on a hike.
A road behind the parish church first leads to Ras il-Bajjada and then to Ix-Xlendi. Ix-Xlendi Bay is close to the parish church of Il-Munxar and nestled between prominent cliffs in southwest Gozo. The area thus offers several landscape features to navigate by: the valleys around Munxar, the views from the Sanap Cliffs and the bay between its cliffs.
Flowing water has created a habitat in the Munxar area for the endemic Maltese freshwater crab and other wildlife. Sightings of individual species may vary by season. This aspect of nature adds another dimension to the area, alongside its open-sea views and valley landscape.
Parish Church and History
Munxar’s parish church is a small, Baroque-style building made of typical Maltese stone. It is dedicated to the Shipwreck of Saint Paul and houses a statue of the apostle dating from 1933. It was created by Gozitan sculptor Wistin Camilleri. The architecture, dedication and statue each give the church its own historical significance.
Il-Munxar became an independent parish in December 1957 and was the last village on Gozo to receive this status. This development is an important part of the village’s history: Munxar is defined not only by its landscape, but also by its status as a parish community. Visitors interested in traditional village architecture can find vernacular features in the farmhouses. Rough, sometimes irregular masonry, smaller windows and entrances, and the characteristic “remissa” doorway distinguish these buildings.
Second World War Remains and Local Tradition
Near the parish church are 25-metre-long air-raid shelters dating from the Second World War. They were excavated in 1942 under the supervision of architect Guzeppi Savona. The square by the parish church provides access to the shelters. If you are considering visiting inside, check current access arrangements in advance.
The festival calendar also offers a recurring connection to the parish church: the feast in honour of Saint Paul in Munxar is celebrated on the third Sunday in May. The exact programme may vary. Along with the architecture and the history of the independent parish, the feast offers a cultural perspective on the village, complementing the walking trails with a local tradition.
Discover more destinations: Gharb, Paola, Qormi, Mqabba, Gzira, Vittoriosa, Hal Kirkop, Qrendi.
For the broader travel overview: Malta.
