Malta’s luzzus (pronounced looz-zoos) are more than just colorful fishing boats; they are a vivid emblem of Maltese culture and maritime tradition, still going strong today. These vibrant beautiful vessels, with their bold patterns and the mystical eye on their bows, are a must-see for anyone visiting Malta.
Let’s use this blog to dive deeper into their history, symbolism, and where you can experience their magic firsthand—along with some lesser-known facts only locals know!
A Brief History of the Luzzu
The luzzu fishing boats are deeply rooted in Malta’s history, with their design tracing back to the Phoenicians, who first settled on the islands around 800 BCE. The Phoenicians were master shipbuilders and traders, and their influence can still be seen in the shape and structure of the luzzus. Over the centuries, these boats have been adapted to suit local fishing practices, making them perfectly suited for Malta’s rocky shores and shallow harbors.
The word luzzu itself is believed to be derived from the Sicilian word guzzo, which referred to small fishing boats. Their distinctive design—with a pointed bow and sturdy wooden hull—makes them resilient against the Mediterranean’s occasional rough seas.
Where to Find the Luzzus Today
While luzzus can be spotted all over Malta, the best places to see them are the traditional fishing villages, where they still play a vital role in daily life.
Marsaxlokk (Top Recommendation for Luzzu Pics): The quintessential location for luzzus, Marsaxlokk’s harbor is a kaleidoscope of colors, especially on sunny days. Visit on a Sunday to experience the famous fish market, where the catch of the day is sold fresh off the boats.
Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour: On Malta’s sister island of Gozo, the harbor offers a quieter but equally charming luzzu experience, with boats often adorned with unique family emblems. Gozo is a VERY short boat ride away from Marsaxlokk or St. Julians's.
Spinola Bay: In the heart of St. Julian’s, you’ll find luzzus alongside modern yachts—a striking juxtaposition of Malta’s maritime heritage and its cosmopolitan present.
The Meaning Behind the Luzzu Colors
The vibrant colors of the luzzus are one of their most striking features. Each boat is painted with a mix of bright yellow, red, blue, and green hues.
In some towns, not only the boats are painted this color. You can also find the colors on benches and walls, with cultural pride running deep.
While the colors make the boats highly visible at sea—a practical safety feature—they also have symbolic meanings:
Yellow: Represents sunlight and prosperity, bringing good fortune to the fishermen
Red: A bold color that symbolizes protection and strength
Blue: Reflects the sea and sky, a nod to the boat’s natural environment
Green: Associated with fertility and growth, wishing for abundant catches
Symbolism of the Colors in Location, and Family Heritage
The vibrant colors of the luzzus are not just for aesthetics; they have traditional significance. The band above the lower half of the boat, known as the mustaċċ (moustache), was traditionally painted in specific colors to indicate the locality of the boat's owner.
For example, a red mustaċċ would indicate that the boat came from St. Paul's Bay, while a lemon yellow indicated a boat from Msida or St. Julian's. An ochre yellow mustaċċ would identify the boat as hailing from the Marsaxlokk and Marsascala area. When a mustaċċ was painted black, it denoted mourning for a death in the family.
Interestingly, each luzzu’s design is unique to the family that owns it. Many fishermen pass down their boats—and their specific color patterns—through generations.
Unique Customs: How the Luzzus get Their Names
Naming a luzzu is a special tradition for fishermen. Names often reflect religious devotion, such as “Maria,” “St. Joseph,” or “San Pawl,” after Malta’s patron saint. Other names may commemorate family members or significant events in the owner’s life. Locals believe the name brings good luck and protection, much like the Eye of Osiris.
The Luzzu All-Seeing Eye of Osiris
In my opinion, the most iconic feature of the luzzu is the "Eye of Osiris," painted or carved on either side of the bow. This symbol has been a part of Maltese maritime tradition for centuries.
The eyes painted on the bow of the luzzus are believed to be a modern survival of an ancient Phoenician custom, also practiced by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians. They are referred to as the Eye of Horus or of Osiris and are said to protect the fishermen while at sea.
Here’s what makes it special:
Superstition: The eye is believed to protect fishermen from harm while at sea, ward off evil spirits, and bring them safely back to shore.
Design: Some eyes are simply painted, while others are intricately carved into the wood. The level of detail often reflects the family’s pride in their boat.
Modern Adaptations: While the eye is steeped in ancient superstition, even fishermen who aren’t superstitious keep it on their boats as a nod to tradition. You will have a hard time finding a boat without the eye feature.
Fun Fact: Some locals jokingly say the eyes don’t just ward off spirits—they also "keep an eye" on the competition in the harbor!
Beyond Fishing: The Luzzu’s Role in Maltese Daily Life
While luzzus are primarily fishing boats, they’ve taken on other roles in Maltese society. Many are now used for tourism, offering boat trips to attractions like the Blue Grotto, St. Paul’s Islands, and even Comino’s famous Blue Lagoon.
In recent years, luzzus have become popular backdrops for weddings and photo shoots alike. People love the symbolism of prosperity and protection that the boats represent. Additionally, tourists like me, find the boats fascinating and are easily drawn in to their alluring charm.
Lesser-Known Facts About Maltese Luzzus
Locals are full of stories and secrets about the luzzus. Here are a few fun facts you might not find in guidebooks that I learned on my last trip to Malta:
A Secret Language: Fishermen often use specific markings on their luzzus to communicate with others. These markings might indicate the type of fish they specialize in or the location of their favorite fishing spots.
Boat Blessings: Every spring, fishermen gather for a boat-blessing ceremony called Il-Festa tal-Ħut (The Feast of Fish). Priests sprinkle holy water on the luzzus to ensure a bountiful season.
DIY Maintenance: Most luzzus are lovingly maintained by their owners, who repaint them every year to keep them looking bright and colorful. Locals say that if a luzzu isn’t freshly painted, it’s likely owned by a tourist or someone who isn’t "a true fisherman."
Festival Lights: During village feasts, some fishermen decorate their luzzus with strings of lights, turning the harbor into a magical, floating display.
Plan Your Visit: How to Experience the Luzzus
If you’re planning a trip to Malta, make time to see the luzzus in action. Here are some tips for an unforgettable experience!
Take a Harbor Tour: Many fishermen offer short tours of the harbor or nearby attractions such as fishing or netting. It’s a great way to hear firsthand stories about their boats and their lives.
Try the Catch of the Day: After admiring the luzzus, enjoy a meal of fresh fish at a local restaurant. Ask for lampuki pie if it’s in season—it’s a Maltese specialty. Each weekend, Marsaxlokk holds a fish market where the boats are all gathered around.
A Culinary Connection: Fishermen and Local Cuisine
The luzzus don’t just catch fish—they also sustain Malta’s culinary heritage. Many local dishes owe their flavors to the fresh catch brought in by these boats including:
Lampuki Pie: A savory fish pie with lampuki, spinach, capers, and olives
Aljotta: A traditional Maltese fish soup flavored with garlic, herbs, and lemon
Fresh Grilled Octopus: Often caught using luzzus, octopus is a local favorite served grilled with olive oil and garlic
Some fishermen sell their catch directly at harbors like Marsaxlokk, ensuring the freshest seafood for nearby restaurants.
Chat with Fishermen: Don’t be shy about striking up a conversation with fishermen. They’re often happy to share the history of their boats and the stories behind their designs. *Note: Malta does not have a lot of American tourists so finding someone who is able to converse in english is few and far between, but it is a fun option to explore.
Photography Tips: The best time to photograph luzzus is early morning (when I snapped the most photos) or late afternoon, when the light enhances their vibrant colors - and no one else is around. Additionally, these are working boats, if you try to see them in the harbor mid day they are likely out making the catch of the day.
The Luzzu: A Living Symbol of Malta
The luzzus of Malta are more than just fishing boats—they are living symbols of the island’s history, culture, and enduring traditions. Whether you’re admiring their bright colors, learning about their origins, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of a bustling harbor, the luzzus offer a unique glimpse into Malta’s soul.
So, next time you find yourself in Malta, take a moment to appreciate these vibrant vessels. They’re not just boats—they’re storytellers, guardians, and cherished pieces of Maltese heritage.
Bonus Movie Recommendation: Luzzu - A Modern Story of Tradition and Survival
The 2021 Maltese film Luzzu offers a heartfelt glimpse into the life of a traditional fisherman struggling to navigate the challenges of modern times. Directed by Alex Camilleri, the film follows Jesmark, a fisherman who relies on his luzzu to support his family but faces mounting pressure from dwindling fish stocks, government regulations, and a globalized economy.
Luzzu beautifully captures the tension between tradition and progress, highlighting the resilience of Malta's fishing community. It received critical acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival, with lead actor Jesmark Scicluna—himself a real-life fisherman—winning a special jury prize for his authentic and moving performance. This film not only showcases the beauty of Malta’s iconic luzzus but also sheds light on the struggles of those who depend on them for their livelihood.
Luzzu is a must-watch (98% on Rotten Tomatos) for anyone wanting to understand the deeper cultural and economic significance of these colorful boats.
If you're interested in watching Luzzu, the film is available for streaming and purchase on several platforms:
Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or buy Luzzu through Amazon
Apple TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV
Kino Film Collection: Subscribers can stream Luzzu directly through this service
For more information about the film, including trailers and behind-the-scenes content, you can visit the official website.
Enjoy immersing yourself in this compelling Maltese story!
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