The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) has announced that Gozo, one of the picturesque Maltese islands, has been awarded the title of European Gastronomy Region for 2026.
The IGCAT jury appreciated the unique character of local cuisine, the hospitality of Gozo residents and the close connection of culinary traditions with the culture and history of the region. The experts also noted the high quality of local products, adherence to traditional food production methods and a harmonious combination of culture, arts and crafts.
Gozo photos, press materials
Its members could see up close what the goat nursery looks like on the spot, processing of tomatoes, as well as the process of forming local sheep's heart (gbeiniyet) and bread (ftira). Because the Maltese Islands have a strong link between food and religion, the IGCAT jury has experienced this the hard way by visiting Lent, the traditional gastronomic events of Holy Week, and the Sanctuary of Ta'Pinu and megalithic temples of Byzantium.
Gozo photos, press materials
This is the second award for Gozo this year by IGCAT. Earlier, at the Food Film Menu 2024 festival, a short film about this Maltese island won an award in the category "European Gastronomic Region".
In addition to Gozo, the title of European Gastronomic Region 2026 was also awarded to Greek Crete and Croatian Kvarner..
The official presentation of this award took place last Saturday in the picturesque setting of the Victoria Citadel.
The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) is an institution dedicated to promoting culinary diversity in Europe. The European Gastronomic Region Award, which has been awarded since 2016, aims to raise awareness of the cultural and gastronomic richness of the Old Continent and promote the sustainable development of the regions.
The winning Gozo film awarded by the Food Film Menu Festival 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbGC8GuLEtU
[press release]