Marsaxlokk

Where is Marsaxlokk?

Marsaxlokk lies in the south-east of Malta, on Marsaxlokk Bay, in the South Eastern District. Its name combines the Maltese words for harbour ("marsa") and south-east ("xlokk," referring to the sirocco wind). It borders Birżebbuġa across the bay and Žabbar and Marsaskala inland and to the north-east.

History of Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk Bay has been used as a harbour since antiquity; the nearby Tas-Silġ site contains archaeological remains spanning prehistoric to later periods. The bay was the landing point of the Ottoman forces at the start of the Great Siege of 1565. The village developed as a fishing community, a role it retains today, and the bay later hosted industrial facilities including a power station at Delimara.

What to see in Marsaxlokk

The harbour and luzzu boats — the bay lined with traditional brightly painted Maltese fishing boats. The Sunday fish market — a large market along the quay, with a smaller daily market for general goods. St Peter's Pool — a natural rock swimming spot on the Delimara peninsula nearby. Tas-Silġ — an archaeological site near the village with remains from several periods.

Transport in Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is connected by bus to the south-eastern towns, the central area and Valletta via Malta Public Transport. The village can be busy on Sundays when the market draws visitors; parking fills quickly, so arriving early or by bus is advisable.

Living in Marsaxlokk

Marsaxlokk is a smaller coastal village with a strong fishing identity, seafood restaurants and a quieter, traditional character away from the main tourist centres. Cost and housing assessments should be based on current market data.

Official name

Marsaxlokk

Island

Malta

District

South Eastern District

Known for

Fishing harbour, Sunday fish market

Transport

Buses