Wied iż-Żurrieq

Wied iż-Żurrieq and its small fishing port have been the subject of a long-standing ownership dispute between the residents of Qrendi and Żurrieq, a debate dating back centuries. In 1910, the area was placed under Qrendi’s spiritual jurisdiction by an archiepiscopal decree, and later, in 1993, the Local Council Act officially positioned Wied iż-Żurrieq and the Blue Grotto within Qrendi’s local boundaries. Despite its name, Wied iż-Żurrieq originates from Wied Hoxt, a valley stretching to the road between the Blue Grotto and Ħaġar Qim temples. Over time, the valley has developed various local names for its areas, including Il-Majlia, a shallow inlet historically used by women and children, and Il-Ħmara, a submerged rock that marked a safe swimming zone for non-swimmers. A series of steps, called Id-Dikkina, were carved out to facilitate access to the water, providing a peaceful spot away from the busy slipway, Lis-Skall. Other landmarks include Il-Ponta, a quay favored by swimmers, and Il-Moll ta’ Xandru, a quay built for the first motorized fishing boat in the area. The rocky, sharp formations at Il-Ponot, known for natural salt pans, are also popular, as is Ġebla tiċċaqlaq, a large rock that moves during storms. Several diving spots have become well-known in the valley, including Il-Kamra it-Tonda, a former WWII pillbox, and Iż-Żurżieqa, a safer area preferred by less adventurous divers. Historically, Wied iż-Żurrieq, along with GĦar Lapsi, served as one of Malta’s best fishing harbors on the southwest coast. Its traditional boats were replaced in the 1960s by the Fregatina, a sturdy boat used to transport visitors to the Blue Grotto.