Victoria Citadel Obelisk - Victoria, Gozo
Posted by: 
holy-ghost
N 36° 02.758 E 014° 14.344
33S E 431458 N 3989314
A commemorative Obelisk near the entrance gate to the Victoria Citadel.
Waymark Code: WMCBHZ
Location: Malta
Date Posted: 08/19/2011
Views: 12
The Aqueducts which could be seen on the left hand side of the road, between Victoria and Ta' Pinu, were built in the nineteenth century, when the British colonial period was establishing itself deeper in the Maltese social fabric.
The Aqueducts' purpose was to supply the population with fresh water from Ghar Ilma hill to the purposely converted central water reservoir within the Victoria Citadel. An Obelisk commemorating the arrival of the first water supply from Ghar Ilma to Victoria was erected, and still stands on the spot of the first water reservoir. The commemorative Obelisk, ornamented with four stone plinths with a chain around it could be seen half way up Castle Hill leading to the Citadel.
The building of the Aqueducts commenced on 24th September, 1839 under Governor Sir Henry F. Bouverie (1836-1843). They were complete and operational on 6th September 1843, when water first appeared from a fountain in St. Sabina Square, in Victoria.
Ghar Ilma hill is still renowned for its natural fresh water spring and hence the term Ghar Ilma that literally means "The Cave of Water".
Following the end of its use, when water started to be pumped electrically through a pipe grid, the Aqueducts fell into disrepair and hence parts of it lie in ruins. However its remaining arches still stand defiantly to embellish the whole vicinity. Curious visitors are often tempted to follow the Aqueducts' trail up to Ghar Ilma hill above. From there, especially in winter and early spring, one could experience an unforgettable collage of Gozitan countryside panorama.
(source: gozo.gov.mt)
Date Created/Placed: 1877 ?
Address:
Victoria Citadel, Victoria, Gozo
Height: circa 5 meters
Illuminated: Not Listed
Website: Not listed
|
Visit Instructions:
Give a narrative of your experience. What did you think of the obelisk? Did you learn anything? Photos are always welcome too. Please no virtual visits.