Why stay in Gzira
When literally translated to Maltese, Gzira means ‘Island’. Thanks to the special central location of Gzira you will experience an excellent holiday home away from home. It’s a central town with lots of things to see and do and a stone throw away from other major cities and attractions.The apartments are served by bus stops “RIZZO”, literally on the doorstep crossing the islands northbound and southbound. The pleasant Gzira, Sliema promenade is only a 5 minute walk away from the apartments. This Gzira promenade is centrally and very conveniently located close to the night clubs of Sliema, the views of the capital and incredible swimming spots.
History of Gzira
Like every Maltese town or city, Gzira is rich with history which dates back to the times of when the knights lived in Malta. As referred to in the introduction, Gzira ‘the island’ is named like this due to the Manuel Island which sits in the middle of the harbour in Gzira.
The fortification on Manoel Island, better known as Fort Manoel, was built by the Portugese Grandmaster Antonio Manoel de Vilhena back in 1726. But the history on this little piece of land goes back even further when in 1634, Grandmaster Jean-Paul Lascaris built a quarantine hospital. This hospital received patients with plagues and cholera who came aboard ships in times of war.
Gzira also played an important role during the second world war. At the time, Malta was under British rule and given its unique geographical location, Gzira was used as a naval base for the British.
It was around this period, in the middle of the century, when the streets of Gzira started to be synonymous with one particular ‘leisurely’ activity. Prostitution has rooted itself into Gzira’s history and in some particular streets, the fame for carnal pleasures still stand to this very day.
The residents of this town are big football fans. Gzira United has its own football ground.
Where is Gzira?
Gzira sits in a perfect spot on the Maltese islands. The location is, in fact, one of the real gems which make Gzira so unique. Sliema, which is one of the most famous tourist hotspots in Malta, is only a couple of kilometres away. Sliema and Gzira actually touch each other and you can easily cross from one to the other on foot. Winter days in Malta can offer you some beautiful weather, so perhaps, a nice walk from Gzira to the Sliema waterfront would be a brilliant idea.
Gzira also sees a lot of students especially during winter months, this is due to the fact that the University of Malta is located so close to the town.
The capital of Malta, Valletta (which should definitely be on your list of places to visit while in Malta) is also a short ride away.
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