History of Qala

astern-most point of Gozo, and the village furthest from the capital Victoria. Its name is both Arabic and Maltese for sheltered haven or bay, and this is reflected in its coat of arms - a Gozo boat sailing on rough seas. The village parish church is dedicated to Saint Joseph, and was built by Dun Guzepp Diacono, between 1882 and 1889. Its style is baroque as in many other churches on the island. Qala became a parish on 3 February 1872, and until 1889 the parish church was that of the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady. The foundation stone of the parish of Saint Joseph was laid on 19 March 1882 and the church consecrated on 8 May 1904.

The coastline around Qala is largely rocky, but offering some really excellent walks, as well as wonderful views of Malta and Comino. There are a few sheltered inlets, one being the secluded bathing spot at Hondoq ir-Rummien. There are many sites of historical interest here, such as the salt pans, the islands best preserved windmill and prehistoric remains. One can find examples of cart ruts, (parallel tracks cut into the rock) which extend over 180 metres and are some of the longest on Gozo