Bahar Ic-Caghaq

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Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq (Naxxar)

Latitude:	35°54 '54" N
Longitude:	14°26 '41" E
Population total:	1250
Borders:	Għargħur, Pembroke, Magħtab, Madliena
Day of festa:	September 8
Website:	naxxar.com

‘Bahar Ic-Caghaq’ is a small Maltese village situated between the limits of Madliena, Maghtab, Ghargur and Pembroke. The area is situated at the mouth of the islands longest valley called ‘Wied il-Kbir’. The name 'Bahar ic-Caghaq' in Maltese can be translated to the meaning ‘sea of pebbles’ in English’. The area has been traditionally allocated to one of the nicest bathing spots on the island and as the location’s name suggests, one may find a long stretch of rocky coast characterised by a large number of pebbles and sharp rocks in the limits of the area. The area of Bahar ic-Caghaq has been used as a camping site by British forces during the British colonial period of the islands.

Two century old chapels are found in the area, one of which has been abandoned. A modern central parish church and Franciscan retreat house are also found in the the town. Bahar ic-Caghaq nowadays is best known for its coastline used as bathing area, its marine park, three of its bars and restaurants, its scout camping sight and an ice cream kiosk found on its coastline.

Nowadays residents number up to approximately 1250 persons (2007 estimate). The town forms part of the Local Council of Naxxar, however the parish district of the town falls under the neighbouring parish region of Gharghur. In the last 15 years the land development increased by threefold and Maltese people continue to purchase and develop property in the area.

There has been a concern by local residents regarding the negative environmental implications of the Landfill situated in the neighbouring region of Maghtab. Residents are also concerned about the illegal land exploitation and the environmental pollution caused by the illegal caravan site found on the coast.