About Xgħajra
Xgħajra (Ix-Xgħajra) is a compact seaside locality on Malta’s eastern coast, roughly between Valletta and Marsaskala. It’s a great place for a calm coastal walk, a sunset stop, or a quieter base close to the Grand Harbour area—without the busy pace of the capital.
History & relevant dates
These are widely referenced milestones associated with Xgħajra’s development and the historic coastal defences in and around the locality.
- 1620: A coastal watchtower associated with Santa Maria delle Grazie is recorded as being built during the era of Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt (often cited as the last of the Wignacourt Towers).
- 1888–1893: Delle Grazie Battery (also called Xgħajra Battery) is built by the British as a polygonal coastal artillery battery above the shore east of the Grand Harbour.
- Late 20th century: The settlement grows from being closely tied to nearby communities into a clearer village identity.
- 1993: Xgħajra is recognised as a separate locality with its own Local Council as Malta’s Local Councils system begins.
- Today: Xgħajra is best known as a residential coastal village with a popular promenade and nearby heritage-era coastal military structures.
Places to visit in and near Xgħajra
- Xgħajra Waterfront Promenade: the village’s signature walk—flat, scenic, and ideal for sunrise/sunset strolls.
- Delle Grazie Battery (Xgħajra Battery): a late-19th-century British coastal battery (access can vary; it has been used/managed by local groups at different times).
- Chapel of St Leonard: Xgħajra : Ruins of St Leonard’s Chapel in Xgħajra, Malta, probably 17th century, often dated 1656, a small rural place of worship now valued as fragile heritage remains.
- Torri ta' Triq il-Wiesgħa:further down the coast from Xgħajra : Torri ta’ Triq il-Wiesgħa (originally Torre della Giddida, also called Mwejġel Tower) is a De Redin coastal watch-tower built in 1659 to guard the east side of the Grand Harbour.
- Coastal viewpoints: rocky shoreline spots for sea views and photography along the coast.
- Easy day trips: connect to nearby areas around the Grand Harbour and southeast Malta (short drives/bus connections depending on route).
Practical guide
- Best for: coastal walks, quiet stays, local seaside atmosphere.
- Getting around: easy on foot along the waterfront; public transport and driving can connect you to nearby towns.
- When to go: year-round; spring/autumn are usually most comfortable for longer walks.
- Nearby inspiration: Valletta, Marsaskala, Birgu (Vittoriosa).
FAQ
Is Xgħajra good for a walk?
Yes—Xgħajra is especially popular for its waterfront promenade and relaxed coastal views.
What’s the main historic site associated with Xgħajra?
The best-known heritage site nearby is the late-19th-century Delle Grazie Battery, often called the Xgħajra Battery.