The Gozo Album is a digital archive with the aim to preserve the visual history of Gozo – through a vast collection of photographs – for present and future generations. However, the purpose of this platform – which continues to grow – is not only to safeguard these photographs. The archive also seeks, where possible, to narrate the story behind each image. Anyone who wishes can upload a historical photo, which may eventually become part of the public collection, if approved.

Officially launched during the Public Service Expo Village 2025, this project is the result of a collaboration between two Directorates – the Information Management Unit (IT section) and the Directorate for Cultural Heritage (DCH) – both within the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, in collaboration with the National Archives’ Gozo Office.

This digital platform currently includes more than 1,600 historical photographs, offering a fascinating journey across different eras. Visitors can explore the photographs by village, theme, or historical period. The Then & Now section compares old photos with present-day scenes, while the Timeline places the photographs in their historical context – for instance, the old photograph of the Azure Window taken in 1890 by Richard Ellis. Another important section is the Series of Aerial Photographs from 1943, captured by Allied aircraft during World War II, which show Gozo before modern development. 

In addition, the archive also features a section dedicated to the Photographers, recognising those whose contributions form the core of the collection, including Richard Ellis, one of Malta’s photography pioneers; Michele Farrugia, known as il-Badiku; Carmela Buhagiar, one of the first female photographers in Gozo; and Guido Stilon, known for his detailed photographs and the way he captured the picturesque Gozitan villages.

To make this heritage more accessible, the Gozo Album is now available on the website of every local council in Gozo. Soon, a WordPress plugin and a free embeddable widget will also be launched, allowing other websites to display content from the Gozo Album easily and dynamically. Looking ahead, the Gozo Album is also expected to include a 3D Museum, enabling users to experience all the photographs in an interactive, first-person environment, with a virtual experience that closely mirrors reality.

Visit www.gozoalbum.gov.mt to explore the archive or even contribute your own part of Gozo’s history.