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From prehistoric times, the Mediterranean was the major source of arts and crafts that were to later flourish all over the old Continent of Europe and beyond. Today every country in the region has its own unique items to present to the visitor as precious souvenirs.
In Malta, modern-day artisans are to be found working in unison at the Crafts Village in Ta’ Qali, a former RAF wartime air-field, where these local experts create all kinds of beautiful artefacts, from blown glass to the famous Maltese lace, and from pottery to intricate filigree jewellery.
Whether you're looking for a special souvenir to take home, or just feel like spending an interesting day out watching these skilled craftspeople at work, the Crafts Village at Ta’ Qali is the perfect destination. The list to choose from is endless: art and sculpture, ceramics and stone, food and drink, furniture and wood, gifts, glass, jewellery, lace, fabrics and metalwork.
A visit to Gozo will also give you the opportunity to take back home some quality souvenirs. Gozitan crafts have undergone a revival in recent years, not solely because they make interesting souvenirs but also because of their cultural significance.
Some crafts, such as knitwear, basket-making and lace, have a long history. In Gozo, there are two main centres where you can browse and buy crafts: the Crafts Centre in the Citadel of Rabat (Victoria) and the Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village, at San Lawrenz.
If you have a car then getting to the Crafts Village is quite simple – just follow signs to Ta Qali and the village itself is well signposted from there. If you are not sure about getting to Ta’ Qali it’s where the football stadium is located, so just follow the floodlights. For bus users there is a direct route from Valletta to the village – the number 65 – which also passes through Sliema on the way. For more information on the crafts village itself, check out their website www.taqali.com
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