Longtime Wied iż-Żurrieq Car Parker Francis Caruana, Known as Ċikku l-Markiż, Dies
In brief
- Francis Caruana, widely known as Ċikku l-Markiż, has died after spending 56 years working as a car parker at Wied iż-Żurrieq.
- He was recognisable to visitors and motorists for his signature captain's hat, warm demeanour, and local stories.
- Tributes were paid across Malta following the announcement of his passing by multiple national news outlets.
Francis Caruana, the longtime car parker at Wied iż-Żurrieq who was widely known across Malta by the nickname Ċikku l-Markiż, has passed away.
Caruana spent 56 years assisting motorists and visitors at the popular southern coastal inlet, establishing himself as a familiar and enduring presence in the area.
He was widely recognised for wearing a distinct captain's hat and for his welcoming demeanour, often directing parking while sharing stories and local knowledge with arriving tourists.
Wied iż-Żurrieq serves as a major destination for both local residents and international visitors, functioning as the primary departure point for boat trips to the Blue Grotto.
His decades of service at the site made him a recognisable character to generations of drivers navigating the busy seaside parking area.
News of his death was reported across Maltese news outlets on Saturday, prompting condolences and public tributes celebrating his long connection to the community.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. All outlets reported the passing of Francis Caruana consistently with factual tributes to his decades of service.