Block, Gzira

Gzira is a town in the north-eastern coast of Malta between Msida & Sliema, and bordering on Ta' Xbiex, with its famed yacht marina and Embassy Row. The word Gzira means "island" in Maltese, and the town is named after Manoel Island which lies just adjacent to the town. The seafront of Gzira is famed for its breathtaking views of the walled city of Valletta, which are illuminated at night, forming a picturesque backdrop to Manoel Island, the yacht marina, and a seafront public garden. During the last decade, a large proportion of the old houses has been demolished and new, luxurious blocks of flats have been built. Much of the character and charm of the seafront houses has been lost as a result, although on the narrow village streets in the heart of Gzira one can still find examples of traditional Maltese facades, with their enclosed wooden balconies and bow-fronted, wrought-iron balconies. The proliferation of flats in Gzira led to an inflation of the housing prices, as the town became sought after by both Maltese and foreign settlers. The main reason behind the area's popularity is that it is centrally located in Malta, being close to both the University of Malta and the capital, Valletta.