Is a picturesque village situated in the southern part of Gozo, is a place where the island’s natural beauty and rural traditions blend seamlessly, offering an authentic slice of Gozitan life. Perched on a gently sloping plateau, Sannat is surrounded by fertile fields and dramatic cliffs, making it a destination for those who appreciate both tranquility and the rugged charm of the island’s landscape.
As you enter Sannat, the village unfolds with a sense of quiet elegance. The streets are lined with traditional limestone houses, their facades adorned with vibrant bougainvillea and geraniums, adding bursts of color to the honey-colored stone. The village square, Pjazza Santa Margerita, is the heart of Sannat, where locals gather in the shade of the towering palm trees that sway gently in the breeze. The square is dominated by the Church of St. Margaret, a stately baroque structure that has stood for centuries as a symbol of the village’s enduring faith. Inside, the church is a haven of calm, with its intricate altars, frescoes, and the soft glow of candlelight inviting quiet reflection.
Sannat is a village deeply connected to its rural roots, and this connection is most evident in the surrounding countryside, where the land is cultivated with the same care and dedication that has sustained the community for generations. The fertile fields around Sannat are planted with vegetables, wheat, and vines, and during the harvest season, the village comes alive with the rhythms of agricultural life. The village’s rural charm is enhanced by the presence of several traditional farmhouses, many of which have been lovingly restored and now serve as guesthouses, offering visitors a chance to experience the tranquility of Gozitan country living.
One of Sannat’s most striking features is its proximity to the towering cliffs of Ta’ Ċenċ, a dramatic escarpment that plunges into the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean below. These cliffs are the highest on Gozo, and their sheer drop and rugged beauty are awe-inspiring. Ta’ Ċenċ is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, with trails that wind along the cliff edge, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The area is also rich in flora and fauna, with wildflowers carpeting the ground in spring and rare birds nesting in the cliffs. The sense of solitude and the sweeping vistas make Ta’ Ċenċ a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or a peaceful walk at sunset when the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink.
The Ta’ Ċenċ plateau is also home to several prehistoric sites, adding a layer of mystery to the natural beauty. Scattered across the landscape are ancient cart ruts, their origins shrouded in mystery, and the remnants of megalithic temples that date back thousands of years. These archaeological sites, weathered by time and the elements, offer a glimpse into the island’s distant past and the people who once called this rugged land home.
Closer to the village, Sannat’s connection to tradition and craft is evident in the local workshops where artisans continue to practice time-honored crafts such as lace-making and weaving. The village has a long history of lace-making, and Sannat lace is renowned for its fine quality and intricate designs. Visitors can often see local women sitting outside their homes, working on delicate lace pieces with remarkable skill and precision. The village’s craftspeople are proud of their heritage, and their work reflects the patience and care that are at the heart of Sannat’s way of life.
Sannat is also home to a number of small, family-run restaurants where the flavors of Gozo come to life. The village’s culinary offerings are a celebration of local produce, with dishes that highlight the freshness of the ingredients and the simplicity of traditional Gozitan cooking. Here, you can savor dishes like rabbit stew, fresh fish, and ftira—a local bread topped with tomatoes, olives, and anchovies—paired with a glass of Gozitan wine. Dining in Sannat is a leisurely affair, where meals are enjoyed at a relaxed pace, allowing time to appreciate the food, the company, and the surroundings.
Sannat is a village that invites you to slow down and embrace the simplicity and beauty of rural life. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic cliffs of Ta’ Ċenċ, wandering through the quiet streets, or enjoying a meal in one of the local restaurants, Sannat offers a deep sense of connection to the land, the past, and the timeless rhythms of nature. It’s a place where the soul of Gozo is felt in every corner, and where the peace and tranquility of the island are distilled into a singular, unforgettable experience.