Fort Chambray: Could Gozo’s Next Big Thing Be Its Oldest?

Imagine this: you’re strolling along the sun-kissed Xlendi beach, the Mediterranean lapping gently at your feet. Suddenly, you look up and see not just the rugged cliffs of Xlendi, but a sprawling national park stretching out before you, all the way to the historic Fort Chambray. This isn’t a dream, but a vision proposed by Momentum, a local environmental NGO.

Reviving a Sleeping Giant

Fort Chambray, a 18th-century British fortress, has stood sentinel over Gozo’s northern coast for centuries. But today, it’s more known for its abandoned state than its historical significance. Momentum wants to change that. They’ve proposed transforming the fort and its surrounding area into Gozo’s first national park, a move that could breathe new life into the historic site and the island’s tourism.

“We’re not just talking about a park with a few trees and a bench,” says Dr. Joseph Mizzi, Momentum’s director. “We’re talking about a unique, historic space that could offer educational tours, cultural events, and even eco-tourism activities.”

From Fort to Park: A Walk Through History

Momentum’s plan isn’t just about creating a park; it’s about preserving history. The proposed national park would stretch from the fort down to the sea, incorporating the historic Xlendi Tower and the scenic Xlendi Bay. Visitors could walk through history, from the Bronze Age to the British era, all within the same park.

But it’s not just about the past. The park could also serve as a hub for environmental education. “Gozo has some unique ecosystems,” says Mizzi. “A national park could help protect these while also teaching visitors about them.”

Challenges and Opportunities

Of course, turning Fort Chambray into a national park won’t be easy. The fort itself is in need of restoration, and the area around it is a mix of public and private land. But Momentum is undeterred. They’ve already started talks with the government and local councils, and they’re optimistic about the future.

“We’ve seen what happens when people come together for a cause,” says Mizzi, referencing the successful campaign to save the nearby Ta’ Mena estate from development. “We believe that, with enough support, we can make this happen.”

And support is growing. Local residents and businesses are starting to see the potential in Momentum’s plan. “It could bring more tourists to the area, which would be great for our business,” says Maria, owner of the popular Xlendi restaurant, ‘Il-Kanċell’.

But it’s not just about tourism. The national park could also provide new opportunities for local environmental education and conservation. “It’s a win-win,” says Mizzi. “We protect our history and our environment, and we create new opportunities for Gozo.”

So, could Fort Chambray really become Gozo’s next big thing? . But one thing’s for sure: with Momentum’s proposal, the historic fort is finally getting the attention it deserves.

If you’d like to support Momentum’s proposal, you can sign their petition at momentum.org.mt/fort-chambray.