The high-rising rock in the middle of the picture is Fungus Rock. It is an islet separated from the mainland by a 10 metre water channel. Among Maltese it is also known as ‘'Il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral'’ (the General’s Rock). I took this shot facing the sun and there was such a glare that the sky turned out white.
The Knights Hospitaller apparently discovered what is known as the Malta Fungus, growing on the rock's flat top. This plant which seems to grow only here was believed to have medicinal properties. The Knights used it as a styptic dressing for wounds and a cure for dysentery. The Knights so prized it that they often gave gifts of Malta Fungus to distinguished noblemen and visitors to the Maltese islands. In 1746, Grand Master Pinto even decreed the Rock out of bounds and posted a permanent guard there. And this seems to be the reason for its Maltese name.
Nowadays, Fungus Rock is a nature reserve. However, the shoreline nearby is accessible to bathers and the sea provides perfect snorkeling.
Joke: Two clergy took a vacation in Gozo. The decided to wear casual cloths so they won't be identified as clergy. With fancy shirt, shorts and a towel they went to the beach. Among the bathers was a gorgeous blond in a teeny weeny bikini.
"Good afternoon, Fathers" she says as she strolls by.
The men are stunned. How does she know they are clergy? The next day they decide to dark glasses and change cloths before going to the beach but The same fabulous blond, now wearing a string bikini, passes by, nods politely at them and says, "Good morning Fathers."
"Just a minute young lady.", says one of the priests. "We are priests and proud of it, but how in the world did you know?"
The blonde replies, "Don't you recognize me? I'm sister Katherine from the convent."
Many thanks for looking and for your lovely comments and the fav's on yesterday's helping to put the shot on pp. Very much appreciated.
So many interesting stories when it comes to the Knights! "Fucus coccineus melitensis" seems to be the fungus - what that means I haven't a clue but it is so fascinating! Apart from all this, its a great coastal scene and photograph!
What wonderful structures these are!