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Dwejra (Inland Sea & Fungus Rock) — Gozo
Dwejra, on the west coast of Gozo, is one of the most dramatic natural sites in the Maltese islands. It takes in the Inland Sea — a lagoon linked to the open Mediterranean by a tunnel through the cliff — and Fungus Rock, the great boulder once guarded for its rare plant. It was also home to the Azure Window, the natural arch that collapsed in 2017.
Updated 2026-06-13
- Official name
- Dwejra (Id-Dwejra)
- Type
- Coastal natural site (lagoon, tunnel, rock stack)
- Location
- West coast of Gozo, near San Lawrenz
- Island
- Gozo
- Notable
- Inland Sea; Fungus Rock; former Azure Window (collapsed 2017)
- Best for
- Boat trips, diving, walking, geology
What is Dwejra?
Dwejra is a stretch of spectacular coastline on the west of Gozo. It brings together several natural features: the Inland Sea, a shallow lagoon separated from the open sea by a wall of cliff but joined to it by a natural tunnel; Fungus Rock, a large rock stack guarding the mouth of Dwejra Bay; and the site of the former Azure Window, a celebrated rock arch.
Where is Dwejra?
Dwejra lies on the western coast of Gozo, below the village of San Lawrenz and within reach of Victoria. A chapel and an old coastal tower (Dwejra Tower) stand near the shore.
Geology and history
The whole site is a showcase of how the sea shapes limestone. The Inland Sea was formed where the roof of a cave collapsed, leaving a lagoon connected to the Mediterranean by a tunnel through the headland; small boats carry visitors through this tunnel to the open sea and the cliffs beyond. Fungus Rock takes its name from a plant once gathered there and prized by the Knights as a medicinal "fungus"; access to the rock was strictly controlled to protect it. The Azure Window, a huge natural arch that became Gozo's most famous image, collapsed during a storm in March 2017 and no longer exists, though the underwater remains have become a dive site.
What to see at Dwejra
- Inland Sea — lagoon and the boat trip through the tunnel to the open sea.
- Fungus Rock — at the mouth of Dwejra Bay.
- Dwejra Tower, a 17th-century coastal watchtower.
- Excellent diving and snorkelling, including around the site of the former Azure Window.
Significance
Dwejra is one of the most important natural and geological sites in the Maltese islands and a major draw for divers. The loss of the Azure Window in 2017 was felt deeply across Malta and Gozo, but the wider site remains breathtaking and scientifically valuable.
Visiting Dwejra
The site is open and free to walk around. Boat trips through the tunnel from the Inland Sea operate in suitable weather and charge a fee; check locally for availability. The rocks can be uneven and exposed, so take care near the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Azure Window still there?
No. The Azure Window collapsed during a storm in March 2017. Its underwater remains are now a dive site, but the arch itself is gone.
What is the Inland Sea at Dwejra?
A lagoon separated from the open sea by cliff but joined to it through a natural tunnel, which small boats pass through.
What is Fungus Rock?
A large rock stack at the mouth of Dwejra Bay, named after a plant once gathered there and valued by the Knights as a medicinal "fungus".