Sansuna’s Rock

While the town of Xagħra on Malta’s island of Gozo is best known for the neolithic site of Ġgantija, its not the only one in town. Another lesser-known neolithic spot is located within a small courtyard on the north side of Xagħra. The 13-foot-long limestone rock monument is commonly referred to as Sansuna’s Rock, named after the mythological giantess Sansuna, who could carry a megalith in one arm while carrying her child in the other. Local legends say she built Ġgantija.

While archaeological investigations have found that the site was in use during the neolithic period, the exact purpose of Sansuna’s Rock is unclear. It may have served as a dolmen (burial chamber), some speculate. Despite its mysterious significance, the Maltese government has recognized the importance of the site, making it a Scheduled Monument maintained by Heritage Malta.