Marsaxlokk is the foremost fishing village and, perhaps, the most picturesque seaside locality in Malta. Fishing nets are often spread on the quay to dry in the sun and, quite often, sturdy fishermen can be seen mending these nets. These activities, together with the modest houses by the quayside, lend the place charm and serenity.
Most of Malta’s fish supplies are caught by fishermen coming from this port. Swordfish, tuna, and the popular ‘lampuki’ are caught in abundance between spring and late autumn. On weekdays, the catch is taken to the fish-market in Valletta, but on Sundays fish is retailed by fishermen in the open on the quay.
Fish restaurants have opened to meet the ever-increasing demand. The tourist influx to Marsaxlokk has also attracted many hawkers and souvenir vendors.
The boats used by the fisherman are colourful and have the iconic ‘evil’ eye emblem on the sides to ward off bad spirits.
These pictures were taken on a spring day and show the catch of the day.
