A luzzu (Maltese traditional fishing boat) in moored in the marina of Marsaxlokk, Malta

A luzzu is a traditional fishing boat from the Maltese islands. They are usually painted in bright colors, while the bow has a pair of eyes. Luzzus have existed since ancient times. Luzzus are sturdy boats with a double-ended hull. The design of the Luzzu, like that of another Maltese boat, the dghajsa, is believed to date back to Phoenician times. The design has survived because it tends to be sturdy and stable even in bad weather. Originally, the luzzu was equipped with sails although nowadays almost all are motorized, with on board diesel engines being the most common. Luzzus are brightly painted in shades of yellow, red, green and blue, and the bow is normally pointed with a pair of eyes. These eyes may be the modern survival of an ancient Phoenician custom (also practiced by the ancient Greeks); they are sometimes (and probably inaccurately) referred to as the Eye of Horus or of Osiris. They are said to protect the fishermen while at sea. The town of Marsaxlokk is especially famous for the large numbers of luzzu and similar craft operating in its harbour. The luzzu is often considered as a symbol of Malta. Some luzzi have been converted to passenger carriers for tourists although the vast majority continue to be used as fishing vessels.