The Ulysses Lodge is an abandoned hotel structure located on the island of Gozo in Malta. Situated on a hill overlooking Ramla Bay (Ramla l-Hamra), one of Malta's most popular and picturesque sandy beaches, the structure has become a significant landmark known for its controversial history and current status as an urban exploration site. The building takes its name from the nearby Calypso's Cave, which according to legend was home to the nymph who held Odysseus (Ulysses) captive in Homer's Odyssey.
History
Origins and operation The Ulysses Lodge was constructed in the 1980s and operated as a popular wedding and events venue during that decade. From its inception, the hotel was controversial among the local population, who felt the structure was too prominent and visually intrusive in one of Gozo's most scenic natural locations. The hotel's name was deliberately chosen to reference the Greek mythological connection to the area, specifically the nearby Calypso Cave. Over time, the hotel fell into disrepair and eventually ceased operations. The structure appears as if it might never have been fully completed, though historical records confirm it was indeed operational during the 1980s.
Development controversy In the late 2000s, the site became the center of a significant environmental controversy when the property owners attempted to redevelop it. The owners applied for permits to demolish the existing complex and construct self-catering villa-style residential units with underground parking spaces, substations, and swimming pools. This proposed development covered an area of approximately 40,000 square meters on the clay slope below the Xaghra plateau, just above Ramla Bay. The project sparked enormous public outcry and organized opposition from local residents and environmental groups. The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) initially approved the development, but later dismissed the application after a third-party appeal was upheld on the grounds that there was an undeclared public road cutting through the middle of the property. The MEPA Development Control Commission board unanimously rejected the developers' planning application. The developers appealed this decision. Observers noted land clearing work at the site, including removal of shrubbery and trees, suggesting the developers were confident about their appeal. However, this appeal was ultimately rejected by MEPA's board of appeal, based on a detailed report submitted by architect Lino Bianco on behalf of the "Save Ramla Group" led by Xaghra local councillor Carmen Bajada. Though this particular appeal was rejected, an appeal against the negative ruling for the project's outline development remained pending for some time, leaving the ultimate fate of the site uncertain. Eventually, the development plans were scrapped entirely, and the site has remained abandoned since then.
Architecture and features The Ulysses Lodge was designed with elements of traditional Maltese architecture while incorporating features to capitalize on its scenic location. The structure is characterized by distinctive arches and large open spaces designed to make the breathtaking landscape visible from every vantage point within the building. The building features:
Traditional Maltese architectural style doors, which would typically have been adorned with elaborate door knockers known locally as Ħabbata A spacious patio offering panoramic views of Ramla Bay A decorative water feature on the patio Massive arched halls typical of Mediterranean architecture The design of the lodge was intended to blend indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings while enjoying the amenities of the hotel.
Current status Since the abandonment of development plans, the Ulysses Lodge has remained in a state of progressive deterioration. The structure has become a popular destination for graffiti artists and urban explorers, with the walls now extensively covered in street art. As of 2025, the structure remains standing but continues to deteriorate from exposure to the elements and lack of maintenance.
Tourism Visitors can reach the lodge by:
Walking up dirt trails from the west side of Ramla Beach Traveling down Triq Għajn Qamar from Xagħra either by car or on foot Parking near the Calypso Cave site and walking to the lodge Some local tour operators have incorporated the abandoned lodge into their offerings, organizing small group visits (typically limited to six people) that combine historical information with photography opportunities.
In culture and mythology The Ulysses Lodge takes its name from the area's connection to Greek mythology, specifically Homer's Odyssey. According to local legend, Gozo is believed to be the Homeric island of Ogygia, and the nearby Calypso Cave is purportedly where the nymph Calypso held Odysseus (Ulysses) as a "prisoner of love" for seven years. This mythological connection has long been part of Gozo's cultural identity and tourism appeal. However, the Calypso Cave itself is currently inaccessible to visitors due to a collapse that occurred many years ago.
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