Heritage Malta’s Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit, with the support of the Munxar Local Council and the Malta Airport Foundation, is set to celebrate Xlendi’s rich maritime history with a two-night shipwreck festival this weekend.

The Xlendi Shipwreck Festival will take place on the Xlendi waterfront on 21 and 22 August, offering visitors an interactive look at the archaeological treasures lying beneath the waters of the bay.

Running from 6pm to 11pm on both evenings, the event will feature a virtual reality diving experience allowing visitors to explore the Xlendi Underwater Archaeological Park and the Phoenician Shipwreck without having to enter the water.

Visitors will also be able to view a selection of artefacts recovered from the seabed off Xlendi, alongside a 3D-printed model of the Phoenician shipwreck.

Heritage Malta said the event aims to bring Gozo’s underwater cultural heritage closer to the public through an innovative and accessible experience, while highlighting the stories preserved beneath Xlendi Bay.

The festival is free of charge, with no pre-booking required.

Heritage Malta is also encouraging the public to follow its WhatsApp channel for updates, including any announcements concerning possible postponements due to unforeseen circumstances.