Since time immemorial, Gozitans have nurtured a very strong spirit of survival. Very often they had to depend on the skills of their own island artisans to be able to live on an island that was isolated from the rest of the known world. The Arabs introduced cotton into Malta, from around 870, and along with it, expertise in weaving and dyeing. During the period of the Knights, Gozitan cotton linen was very highly sought after in Europe. Another centuries old craft is stone sculpting. A look at Gozo`s churches and houses reveals a craft that has produced highly appreciated architectural artwork.
Despite the mass emigration of the fifties and the sixties as well as the introduction of modern trends and accessibilities that we today are accustomed to, many traditional crafts have survived. These skills were passed on from one genertion to another. Artisan products which half a century ago had a practical use in daily life, gradually started to adapt to a new reality in the tourism sector which appreciated hand made goods manufactured in Gozo. These products – ideal gifts and souvenirs of Gozo- are now looked upon as objects d`art.
Despite the mass emigration of the fifties and the sixties as well as the introduction of modern trends and accessibilities that we today are accustomed to, many traditional crafts have survived. These skills were passed on from one genertion to another. Artisan products which half a century ago had a practical use in daily life, gradually started to adapt to a new reality in the tourism sector which appreciated hand made goods manufactured in Gozo. These products – ideal gifts and souvenirs of Gozo- are now looked upon as objects d`art.
The Ta` Dbiegi crafts village in Gharb is a cluster of workshops where handcrafts are made and sold. Visitors can find hand-made pottery, mouth-blown glass, leather goods, traditional pastries, Gozo lace and silver filigree.
Local crafts can also be discovered as one meanders across the island, in tiny alleys and small village workshops, there are hidden treasures of beautiful artifacts, a pure reflection of local colours and inspiration. A unique experience for anyone seeking to take home a genuine local product…like lace, for example. Making lace is fascinating to watch. The pattern is drawn up on parchment paper and holes pricked to show where the pins should be positioned to allow the linen ‘lace’ threads to be worked. Today, there are still lace makers that one can encounter in village streets, especially in summer when even artisans try to catch a breeze outside . Intricate lace is still being included in haute couture outfits which win international recognition and admiration.
Gozitan skills can not only be seen but tasted as well. There is a vast selection – try out Gozitan thyme honey, peppered goats cheese – Gbejniet, nougat and the unbeatable Maltese snack pastizzi, or what about Gozitan Olive Oil, a bottle of excellent wine or artisan beer – the only of its kind on the islands.
The objective of the Gozo Quality Mark is to promote excellence in the local craft products and services both nationally and internationally; and to promote the products and services of its members, their professional expertise, high standard of workmanship, and the value for money they offer.
The Gozo Quality Mark is a quality label that has been created to safeguard and promote the uniqueness, quality, and great variety of artisan products, arts and crafts made in Gozo. its aim is to also safeguard the livelihoods of artisans and preserve the Gozitan heritage.
Read more about the Gozo Quality Mark managed by the Gozo Artisan Network by clicking here.
Get to know Gozitan’s color pigments, its properties, and how to use them in a hands-on activity.
Weaving has been part of Alda’s life since her early childhood, at 5 years of age.
Joe's art is closely linked with the prehistoric past of Gozo, a small island with its own distinctive character.
Julie & Karen hand make and paint a range of products including key rings, jewellery, fridge magnets and pet portraits, to name just a small selection of our work.
Promoting artistry and take pride in presenting items that have been hand crafted.
Join us to glace and fire your chosen souvenir. Create your own gift box while your piece is being fired in our oven.
Mary has created a variety of mosaics and worked on a number of public-funded community projects.
Getting in touch with the elements, water and air to provide the plasticity for creating different forms.
Founded to promote a better healthier life and to spread general awareness with captivating products.
Making products that respect the environment values, using FSC paper, vegetable-based inks and sustainable material.
While visiting Xwejni Salt pans, the Cini Family will be always on site eager to explain how salt is harvested.
A husband and wife team who believe that being creative is not a choice, it’s a way of life.
A craft brewery on the island of Gozo brewing and bottling approachable beer on this tiny island.
The oldest Crafts Village in Gozo boasting high quality craftsmanship which can be enjoyed on a daily basis.
OTHER EXPERIENCES YOU MIGHT LIKE
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