GOZO · VILLAGES · KERĊEM

Kerċem
Valleys, countryside and old chapels.

Kerċem lies immediately south-west of Victoria and stretches across a landscape of valleys, old chapels, agricultural land and historic sites reaching towards the western side of Gozo.

LOCAL GOZO Kerċem

About Kerċem

Kerċem lies immediately south-west of Victoria and stretches across a landscape of valleys, old chapels, agricultural land and historic sites reaching towards the western side of Gozo.

Gozo's villages are working communities as well as places to visit. The best way to experience Kerċem is to combine its main sights with a walk through the centre, the parish square and the surrounding countryside.

Kerċem at a glance

Location South-west of Victoria
Character Rural village
Known for Lunzjata valley
Motto Flectar non Frangar

Between Victoria and the west

Kerċem occupies a broad area south-west of Victoria, reaching towards Lunzjata and the countryside beyond. Its position makes it a useful transition between the central town and western Gozo.

A very old landscape

The area contains evidence of prehistoric, Phoenician, Punic, Roman and early Christian activity. Among the best-known historic traces are the remains associated with Għar Għerduf and the old religious sites scattered through the locality.

Lunzjata and the countryside

The Lunzjata valley is one of the most attractive rural landscapes close to Victoria. Fields, watercourses, old agricultural structures and traditional country lanes create a strong sense of Gozo's farming heritage.

Village development

Kerċem developed gradually around religious sites and chapels. The present village is quieter than Victoria while still being close enough to the town to make it a convenient base for exploring central and western Gozo.

Visiting Kerċem

Take time to explore beyond the main road. Village squares, parish churches, traditional limestone houses, small streets and views across the countryside often provide the most rewarding parts of a visit.

For food and refreshments, see the e-Malta Gozo food guide. For planning a wider island visit, use the Gozo Route Planner.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Kerċem?

Kerċem lies immediately south-west of Victoria and stretches across a landscape of valleys, old chapels, agricultural land and historic sites reaching towards the western side of Gozo.

What is Kerċem known for?

Kerċem occupies a broad area south-west of Victoria, reaching towards Lunzjata and the countryside beyond. Its position makes it a useful transition between the central town and western Gozo.

Is Kerċem worth visiting?

Yes. It offers a different view of Gozo from the island's beaches and major attractions, with local streets, parish life, traditional architecture and access to the surrounding countryside.

Can I combine Kerċem with other places in Gozo?

Yes. The village is a useful starting point for exploring nearby countryside, coast and other parts of Gozo. Check the e-Malta guides for beaches, viewpoints, history and archaeology and walks and countryside.

Explore the villages of Gozo

Continue to another village and discover a different side of the island.