The Maqluba near Qrendi

Abstract

Near the village of Qrendi, close to the very ancient church of St. Matthew, is one of the most prominent topographical features of the Maltese islands. This is a huge circular pit known as the Maqluba or the 'Overturned'. For those who like to find their way about by means of a map, the reference would be the 2 inch O.S. Map Malta and Gozo, Sheet 2, Grid No. 436179. This pit is mentioned in history and in folklore tales. F.G. Abela, one of the first of the modern writers on the Maltese islands, has an ·extensive account in hi's "Descrittione di Malta" published in 1647. He writes "The Maqluba, i.e. the Overturned, is a great pit, and its depth is such that men at the bottom look like pygmies. About 60 years ago, a vineyard was planted there and on account of the fertility of the soil, the vines thrive and produce very sweet and delicious fruits. It is very difficult to 'climb down as well as to climb up its steep sides, yet the vine-dressers themselves, expert at using holes cut for this purpose as foot and hand holes, make their way up, laden with fruit.