Kercem in Gozo: Churches, Valleys and Festivals

Kercem combines religious heritage, valley landscapes and traditional festivals to create a diverse destination in Gozo. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Kercem can combine cultural discoveries, nature experiences or active days here, depending on their interests. Particularly characteristic are the places in Wied il-Lunzjata, the churches of Ta’ Kerċem and Santa Luċija, and the festivals that shape the rhythm of the year in the village.

Churches and historical sites in Kercem

The Chapel of the Annunciation, also known as the Lunzjata Chapel, is a small Roman Catholic church built into a cave in the Il-Lunzjata Valley. Another historically significant site is Għar Gerduf at Wied Lunzjata within Kerċem. It is a Roman burial site dating from the 3rd or 4th century. Għar Gerduf is also the only late Roman and Byzantine catacomb in Gozo whose exact location is known and which is still visible. Important for your planning: The site is not open to the public.

The parish church of Ta’ Kerċem stands in the village centre. It is the only church in Gozo dedicated jointly to two saints and was extended between 1906 and 1910. The main altarpiece dates from 1854 and was painted by Salvatore Busuttil. It depicts Saint Gregory interceding with the Virgin for those affected by the plague. Santa Luċija also adds to the cultural character of the area: The church was first mentioned in 1575, rebuilt from the ground up in the 1790s and extended in 1950. Santa Luċija is officially part of Ta’ Kerċem and has a rustic church square.

Valleys, views and active days

Wied il-Lunzjata contains unique habitats and micro-ecosystems. Alongside its churches, Kercem therefore also offers a nature-oriented element that can be incorporated into your travel plans. The road running parallel to the church leads to Ta’ Klula. From there, you can enjoy views of Xlendi Bay and its cliffs. Hikers and cyclists also have the option of travelling from Kercem to Dwejra Bay.

Further traces of the long history of settlement can be found in Tal-Mixta. Remains from the Għar Dalam phase, dating from 5000 to 4500 BC, were discovered there. Those travelling with a range of interests can therefore vary their stay: One day can be devoted to churches and historical sites, and another to valleys, views or an active route towards Dwejra Bay.

Festivals as part of the village’s character

Several festivals give Kercem’s calendar its own rhythm. The feast of Saint Gregory the Great is celebrated on the second weekend of March. The feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help takes place on the second weekend of July. There is also the annual Għadira festival in the countryside around San Rafflu. It features traditional music, food, drinks, pony rides and competitions. The feast of Saint Luċija is celebrated on the Sunday closest to 13 December.

When choosing your accommodation, you can therefore consider which focus best suits your trip: cultural sites in the village area, nature and views around Wied il-Lunzjata, or participation in one of the festivals mentioned above.

More destinations for planning your trip

For further comparison of your travel destinations, you can also view Marsa, Ħal Għaxaq, Mellieħa, Rabat, San Pawl Il-Baħar, Mdina, Tarxien and Santa Venera.

To the overarching travel overview: Malta.