The island of Gozo is the second largest in the Maltese Archipelago, with a population of around 32,000, of whom some 6,200 live in the capital Victoria (also known as Rabat). The island is more fertile and picturesque than Malta with many small valleys, hills, rocky cliffs and small beaches, and is a favourite for walkers.

The island has been inhabited since about 5,000 BC and there are many sites of archaeological interest. Gozo is often referred to as the 'Island of Calypso' from 'The Odyssey' by the Greek poet Homer, being imagined to be the island where Odysseus was held captive by Calypso for seven years.

Access to Gozo is by ferry or helicopter, in the 1970s work was started on a bridge to join Gozo to Malta but this was stopped after protest by the inhabitants of Gozo.