Qaura

Just inland from the Azure Window is a large lake of emerald-coloured sea water surrounded by high limestone cliffs and linked to the sea via a narrow tunnel. Even in rough weather, the roomy shingle beach provides a sheltered spot for sun bathing. In calm weather, fishing boats can be hired for a trip through the tunnel to the Azure Window and caves in the adjoining cliffs. On the hills above are a series of caves which housed Malta's earliest inhabitants. According to legend a rich Gozo family lived in one of these caves during the Turkish invasion, and they remained there in safety until one of their own Turkish servants betrayed them to the enemy. The place is said to be near the top of the cliffs, but difficult to find.

Text by Tony Oldham (2002). With kind permission.