Full detailed history of Nadur (with relevant dates)
Parish foundation (1688) and early church building
Nadur’s modern village identity is closely tied to parish formation. The parish was established on 28 April 1688. Early parish arrangements relied on older churches in the wider territory, but a purpose-built parish church on the Nadur hill was completed by 1705, marking a decisive step in the locality’s growth.
The Basilica of St Peter & St Paul: the village’s architectural anchor
The present monumental church began as an 18th-century project: the foundation stone was laid in December 1760 (often cited as 17 December), and construction phases continued across generations. The church was consecrated on 12 May 1867. Further major works in the early 20th century reshaped the aisles, dome and façade (a programme commonly dated to 1907), giving the church much of the form visitors recognise today.
Nadur’s church status also evolved: it became a collegiate church on 19 September 1894, and it was elevated to a minor basilica on 26 June 1967.
Ta’ Kenuna Tower (1848): a British communications landmark
Above the ridge stands Ta’ Kenuna Tower, built in 1848 as part of a British semaphore communications network linking Malta and Gozo. The semaphore system later became obsolete, and the tower’s role changed over time. Restoration in 2005 renewed the site as a viewpoint and landmark in Nadur’s skyline.
Ramla Bay’s deeper past: Roman remains
Nadur’s coastline is famous for Ramla l-Ħamra (Ramla Bay), but its heritage is not only natural. Reports note that remains of a Roman villa complex at/near Ramla were already known from the early 19th century, and later archaeological investigation is associated with the early 20th century (often referencing work around 1911). This adds an archaeological layer to one of Gozo’s most visited beaches.
At-a-glance timeline
- 28 Apr 1688 — Nadur established as a parish.
- 1705 — early parish church on the Nadur hill completed.
- Dec 1760 — foundation stone laid for the present church project.
- 12 May 1867 — church consecrated.
- 19 Sep 1894 — church becomes a collegiate church.
- 1907 — major refurbishment programme (aisles/dome/façade) associated with early 20th-century works.
- 1848 — Ta’ Kenuna Tower built (British semaphore).
- 2005 — Ta’ Kenuna Tower restored.
- 26 Jun 1967 — church elevated to minor basilica.
Best places to visit in and around Nadur
Basilica of St Peter & St Paul: village core + festa culture
The centrepiece of Nadur’s identity: a monumental church whose long timeline (1760–1867; later works and status upgrades) mirrors the village’s growth and community life.
Ta’ Kenuna Tower viewpoints
One of Gozo’s best panoramic lookouts: views across Gozo, Comino and the Malta channel—especially striking at sunrise.
Ramla l-Ħamra (Ramla Bay): red sand + heritage layers
A flagship beach for Gozo. Beyond swimming, look for the wider story: landscape, dune-like sand tones, and the area’s known Roman-era remains.
San Blas Bay: the quieter “little sister” beach
A smaller, more secluded bay reached via a steep descent—rewarding for snorkelling and calm, low-development scenery.
Daħlet Qorrot: pebble inlet with boathouse caves
A hidden-feeling cove between Nadur and Qala with carved boathouse caves and clear water—excellent for a low-key swim stop on a coastal walk.
Coastal walks & viewpoints (north-east Gozo)
Nadur is a strong base for walking routes along the north-east coast: cliffs, coves, sea-lookouts and agricultural landscapes.
How to visit
- Best time for views: sunrise for Kenuna and ridge viewpoints; late afternoon for warm stone tones in the village core.
- For beaches: Ramla is easiest; San Blas is quieter but involves a steeper walk back up.
- Getting around: buses and taxis connect Nadur with Victoria and Mġarr; driving is simplest for combining multiple bays in one day.
- Respect the coast: stick to safe paths, avoid cliff edges in wind, and leave no litter in coves.
FAQ
When was Nadur established as a parish?
28 April 1688.
When was the basilica consecrated?
The church was consecrated on 12 May 1867.
When was Ta’ Kenuna Tower built and restored?
Built in 1848 and restored in 2005.