The nucleus of the town is the Citadel dating back to the Middle Ages and intended to provide a place of safety for the inhabitants against the Ottoman Turks but thankfully its fortifications were never tested.  By law every Gozitan had to sleep in the upper town until 1637 and by 1693 an earthquake destroyed many buildings. What remained remarkably well preserved is the 17th century Palace of the Governors of Gozo now used as Law Courts. The magnificent Cathedral built between 1697 and 1711 features a trompe l'oeil ceiling though it is so well executed that it fools the casual observer.

Wander round the alleyways and see the gradual process of restoration and marvel at how it was in its medieval heyday. Housed within its walls you will find 3 museums featuring Gozitan life, archaeology and natural history. Check out the Armoury and the prisons (surprisingly occupied up to 1964, the year of independence from Britain). And don't forget to pay a visit to the wine bar after negotiating the ramparts to soak in the glorious views of rural Gozo