Gozitan Villages
San Lawrenz
Population: 540Nearby: Gharb, Dwejra inland sea, Azure Window
The name of this western village derives its name from the chapel dedicated to the Roman martyr Saint Laurence. This village is surrounded by three hills – Ta’ Ghammar, Ta’ Dbiegi and Ta’ Gelmus.
The chapel of this village stood in the area from at least the year 1575. Between the years 1886 and 1897, the chapel was converted into a church. In fact, on 15th March 1893, this church was established as a parish church. The village feast of the Martyr Saint is celebrated on the first week of August.
From the village square, one can take the road that leads to the beautiful picturesque bay of Dwejra. This breathtaking bay has several wonders such as Il-Gebla Tal-General, The Azure Window, Il-Qawra and the Inland Sea. There is also a chapel dedicated to St. Anne. At Dwejra, there is also a Roman Tomb which is popular with bathers, and it derives its fame from a singular rock that shelters it.
Erected during the 17th Century by the Knights of St. John, the tower of Dwejra apart from guarding the coast for enemies, it was also used to guard a mysterious red plant with tiny flowers. This was once believed to have great healing powers. This plant grew on a 65 meter high megalith known as il-Gebla tal-General (General’s Rock) or Fungus Rock. It was forbidden for people to climb this rock and cut this plant.
The history of this tiny village dates back to the remains of a Carthaginian Temple Complex (300BC and 100AD). Tal-Harrux portrays a hermit at prayer where graffiti in rock cut cave were found.
One must say that a walk behind the church gives you a breathtaking view of the countryside and exquisite farmhouses.
Places of Interests:
- Parish Church of San Lawrenz
- Dwejra Bay
- Boat rides at Dwejra Bay Inland Sea
- Remains at Tal-Harrux of a Carthaginian Temple
- Tower of Dwejra
- Popular for divers
Amenities:
- Groceries
- Local Handcrafts
Restaurants, Snack Bars & Wine Bars:
- Tatitas
- Kempinski San Lawrenz Resort
- San Lawrenz Social Centre
Banks:
- n/a
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